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SEPTEMBER 3, 2026 / BEND’S INDEPENDENT VOICE - NOW DAILY AT WWW.BENDSOURCE.COM 2

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When Source Graphic Designer Adrian Galler took this job, I don’t know that “hand model for heavy-metal photography” was what he had in mind. Or maybe it was?! In any case, Galler’s hand makes its modeling debut on this week’s cover, as an intro into Central Oregon’s new Heavy Metal Fest. We even got to buy a pack of cool rings for the photo shoot! Elsewhere in News, Clayton Franke looks at the slim competition for upcoming City Council races, and asks how it happened, Dallas Finn Calvert explores a proposed new school fundraising policy afoot for Bend-La Pine Schools and Wally Hofmann profiles a local resource aiming to highlight Hunger Action Month. In food news, Donna Britt enjoys the sweeping views and outstanding desserts at Tetherow’s new restaurant, and in Culture, local artist Teafly pens — and draws — a tribute to Dolly Parton. Thanks for reading! —Editor in Chief, Nicole Vulcan

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VOLUME 30 ISSUE 36 / SEPTEMBER 3, 2026 / THE SOURCE

On the Cover: Photo by Jennifer Galler.

SUPPORT LOCAL

OPINION Vote No on Deschutes County Measure 9-185

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t’s that time again — time for our editorial board to weigh in on important issues facing local people in the coming November election. The calendar has just rolled over to September, and while it feels early to start sharing our endorsements for races in early November, the autumn goes fast, and before you know it, it will be mid-October, when ballots begin arriving in Oregonians’ mailboxes. (Thankfully, in spite of efforts to the contrary, it appears that mail-in balloting is still allowed.) Endorsing in local, state and Congressional races is among the heaviest work we do. Each of our endorsements is based on careful research, done yearround through our daily reporting, and in earnest during election season. While numerous media outlets have eschewed the process in fear of upsetting one side or another, we think that sells readers short and undermines your intelligence. Voters — us included — often tap a host of resources to come to a decision on who to vote for. In spite of the unflattering names we can sometimes get called, our primary mission as media professionals is not to be an enemy of the people, but to uphold accountability, and to remain a watchdog of local governments and local leadership. Doing that year-round gives us an important perspective on what’s working, what’s not and who’s ready to lead. Use our endorsements as just one way to gain information about local elections. Evidence of our year-round commitment to monitoring the political process can be found in the archives of our Opinion section, where we’ve weighed in a number of times this past year on Deschutes County’s waylaid attempt at adding geographic representation to the Deschutes County Board of County Commissioners. We told you back in January why the district mapping proposal you’ll vote on this November is a bad idea. As far back as November, we questioned whether breaking the County into five districts was a solution in search of a problem. As the election season approaches now in late 2026, we’re back to say it again: The district mapping proposal on Deschutes County voters’ ballots this November is a flawed map that disenfranchises the County’s largest city, Bend, in favor of what proponents hope will be a lopsided “benefit” for the rural voters in the County. But let’s back up a bit and cover the basics. In 2024, voters in Deschutes County voted to expand the size of the Commission from three to five. It’s obvious

to anyone who’s spent time at a County Commission meeting, where one more left-leaning commissioner spars daily — and loudly — with the other two right-leaning commissioners, that a larger Commission will introduce some diversity of thought that appears badly needed. That decision was put before the voters, and voters said they wanted to expand. Done. What happened next, however, has been a series of events that have the contours of democracy, with some glaring red flags. Commissioners voted 2-1 — with conservatives Patti Adair and Tony DeBone voting in favor — of forming a committee to develop a district map that divided the County into five zones. Nowhere in any rulebook did it say that the County had to do this, nor that the five districts be represented by commissioners who live in the districts they represent. Those were all madeup “guidelines,” mind you, cooked up by two commissioners who will not be serving on the Deschutes County Board of County Commissioners come January. (Tony DeBone lost to Jamie Collins in May, and Patti Adair is running for Congress.) But that’s not the most troublesome part. The biggest ticking point is the criteria upon which the maps were drawn. Against any precedent we are aware of, the District Mapping committee opted to use voter registration numbers, rather than total population, to draw the district lines. That means that the fastest-growing part of Bend — the southeast portion, home to many families and multigenerational households — contains a far larger raw number of people than other districts. Commissioners, overseeing everything from county health to juvenile justice, serve the entire county, not just the voting public. The map is so poorly drawn that both the DMAC members and county commissioners have admitted they should probably go back to the drawing board once the next Census — in just four years — is completed. Voters are going to have plenty to get their heads around, voting in two more commissioners in November and ushering in four new members of the Commission next year. If districts are a priority for this new Commission, they can opt to take up the issue and incorporate the Census figures in just a few short years. In the meantime, vote No on Measure 9-185.

HAVE SOMETHING TO SAY? Send your thoughts to editor@bendsource.com.

Letters

PROTECT THE ROADLESS RULE

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The faculty at Central Oregon Community College are paid $10,000 less than the average starting faculty at all 17 community colleges in Oregon, despite working in the most expensive part of the state. That’s astonishing. But, what’s even more astonishing is that COCC administrators who recently gave themselves a 24 percent salary increase have refused to bargain a fair contract with the Faculty Forum and think they only deserve a five percent raise. COCC Board members elected to represent the public are silently standing with administrators rather than the people who actually do the teaching at the college. I suppose we should not be too surprised, Classified employees at COCC had to threaten a strike last term before college administrators got serious in contract negotiations. Their solidarity—with community and labor support—won them significant contract improvements. COCC students, community members, and union members across Central Oregon need to show their solidarity with the COCC Faculty Forum as the fall term begins. Email COCC President Greg Pereira through his executive assistant Kyle Matthews at kmatthews8@cocc.edu and the COCC Board of Directors at feedback@cocc.edu and demand that our community college pay faculty a living wage that will allow them to live and teach in our community. —Michael Funke

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RE: LET’S GET SMOOSHED INTO TINY LITTLE VENUES AGAIN, SOUND, 8/21

My son and his little family are Bend residents, my husband and I love Bend and visit as often as we can. We live in Laguna Beach, a wonderful little town though a bit overrun with rich tourists these days. We are so lucky to have so many amazing musicians living here — all ages, all genres — yet only in the summer do we get to hear many of them. Abby Francis’ wonderful piece about the value and beauty of small music venues really hit home with us (my husband thinks he was a high school rock star) and I have already passed it along to several of our music loving friends here. Thanks so much for your great work keeping local media alive. — Pat Cochran Lockwood

LETTER FROM A 9-YEAR-OLD

Hi! My name is Mae Paggi. I’m 9 years old. Sometimes I worry about the earth and I don’t know what to do to help. If you feel the same way, I came up with some ideas to share with you. Some things that can help the earth are: Switching to an electric car and picking up litter whenever you can. And fighting for what we believe in our hearts. Because we are strong and can do anything. For example, me and my dad go pick up garbage together near construction areas and care for our plants. You can also help the earth by keeping lights off whenever you are not in the room and when you are washing dishes, you can turn the water off while scrubbing. You can help people with hard times

by being kind and sharing. If someone is scared of something, hold their hand and help them face their fears. If you can also think of other things to help the earth and be a good person, share them with others and they can help too. Thank you! — Mae Paggi

Letter of the Week:

Thanks for writing in, Mae. Come by and grab your gift card to Palate. This is the second week in a row that a person under 18 has written in to share their thoughts and earned Letter of the Week. If this is what it takes for young people to engage with newspapers, I am all over it! —Editor in Chief Nicole Vulcan

5 VOLUME 30 ISSUE 36 / SEPTEMBER 3, 2026 / THE SOURCE

According to a recent Source Weekly article, over 200,000 acres of public lands in central Oregon are threatened by the Roadless Rule repeal. We should keep these places protected for future generations. On a recent visit to Jack Creek and Canyon Creek near Sisters, I couldn’t help but admire all of the nature and beauty around me, the smell and colors of the flowers, the warm summer sun, and the refreshing, cool water. Even with all this beauty around me, I was still troubled by the active attacks on our public lands, including the Trump Administration’s plan to revoke the Roadless Rule. Without the Roadless Rule, we’d lose nearly 50 million acres of protected forests across the country and see increases in commercial logging, the loss of wildlife, and overall ecosystem disruption. Wildfire risk will be even higher without the Roadless Rule. Studies show that fires are four times more likely to start near a road than in roadless forests. That’s why we should pass the Roadless Area Conservation Act, which is supported by Senators Wyden and Merkley, and Representative Janelle Bynum. Although it was my first time there, I fell in love with the view and the amazing wilderness all around Canyon Creek and Three Finger Jack. It gave me a greater appreciation for protected public lands and the nature around us. I want future generations to enjoy and have places like this to turn to when they need connection with nature. — Maria Franco

Letters must be received by noon Friday for inclusion in the following week’s paper. Please limit letters to 250 words. Submission does not guarantee publication. Opinions printed here do not constitute an editorial endorsement of said opinions. Letter of the week receives $5 to Palate!

NEWS

Bend City Council Races See Scarce Competition SEPTEMBER 3, 2026 / BEND’S INDEPENDENT VOICE - NOW DAILY AT WWW.BENDSOURCE.COM

Drop-outs and failed signature gathering efforts trimmed the field, leaving voters two candidates unopposed By Clayton Franke

Photos courtesy of candidates

ic Tartar makes a living planting landscapes of native vegetation, but he knew the field of sagebrush and empty sidewalk outside the new Bend Central Library was no place to gain support for his bid for Position 6 on the Bend City Council. That’s where he found himself after he learned of the library’s policy against campaign signature-gathering. It was one roadblock in a failed effort to collect the 150 signatures needed to get certified for November’s general election ballot. “That turned out to be more difficult than I thought,” he said. Tartar was one of four city council candidates who either didn’t get the signatures or withdrew from the race as the filing deadline passed Aug. 25. The falling-off — paired with a lack of candidates filing in the first place — has resulted in a largely uncompetitive election for the top decision-making body in Central Oregon’s largest city. Three of seven Council seats are up for grabs, but in two of them, only a single name will appear on the ballot. The only contested race is for the mayor’s seat, where a late-entry challenger with little name recognition probably has long odds to oust a well-supported incumbent. The election favors the status quo — a slate of candidates backed by the local Democrat party that often votes as a unified front to prioritize increased spending on bicycle and pedestrian projects, infill housing and new policies to reduce carbon emissions. Still, the Council has a fair share of vocal critics. It’s a dynamic that has left some — including candidates who will sail to victory — questioning why there aren’t more candidates stepping up. “I am honestly very surprised,” said Councilor Ariel Méndez, who was the lone candidate to file for Position 5. “In my particular race, I had someone suggest it was obviously because everybody likes me and loves my platform. Looking at my email inbox, that’s probably not true.” Tartar, who moved to Bend from Portland two years ago, said he generally likes the direction the City is heading, and believes most other people do as well. But he feels it could move to enforce fire-proof landscaping and encourage the transition from water-sucking lawns to drought-tolerant plants. Maybe he could offer ideas to reduce traffic congestion, he thought. Signature struggles Tartar wasn’t the only one who met signature-gathering challenges. Aerospace Engineer Dan Sorrells visited bike shops, parks and even the river wave in attempts to gather signatures, posting videos to Instagram along the way. On July 13, he said he turned in 185 signatures to the Deschutes County Clerk’s Office, but only 107 of them were validated. A month later he called off his campaign due to a partner’s cancer diagnosis. In his videos, Sorrells talked about affordable housing as a priority, floating ideas like a vacant home tax and cracking down on short-term rentals. The 150 signatures Bend requires to qualify for the ballot are far more than other Central Oregon jurisdictions. Redmond requires 50 signatures for City Council and 100 for mayor. Sisters requires 10. La Pine requires 11. Deschutes County charges a $50 filing fee but doesn’t require any signatures for its elections.

Ariel Méndez

Elana Reinholtz

Party endorsements dwindle the field Other candidates successfully collected signatures — and gained notable political backing — but still decided to drop out. Bobbi Cummiskey, a policy analyst and climate specialist with the Oregon Department of Transportation, filed for Position 6 in June and received an endorsement from sitting councilor Mike Riley, who opted to step away from the seat. According to her website, Cummiskey also got endorsements from Méndez and Deschutes County Commissioner-elect Jamie Collins. But there was one endorsement she didn’t receive that mattered most. “I did not receive the Deschutes Democrats’ endorsement, and I don’t see a path to winning office without it,” she wrote in her withdrawal paperwork Aug. 24. Cummiskey did not return a phone call from the Source. Bend City Council and other local races are technically nonpartisan, but local Democrat and Republican parties still endorse and support candidates. With a wealth of left-leaning candidates emerging in recent elections, the endorsement process has created a highstakes competition months before voters ever weigh in. Those who don’t receive an endorsement sometimes drop out before the election. Others decide to stay in the race despite not receiving the endorsement — usually with little success. In 2024, longtime incumbent Bend Councilor Barb Campbell received just 15% of the vote in a three-way race after the Democrats endorsed a different candidate. Redmond School Board Member Amanda Page also chose to stay in the race after Democrats endorsed her opponent before a Deschutes County Commission primary earlier this year. Page said the process was weighted against her because she refused to sign a pledge to only support other candidates endorsed by the party. For Position 6, Democrats, along with the firefighters’ union and State Rep. Emerson Levy, endorsed Elana Reinholtz, who will run unopposed. Reinholtz is the associate marketing director with Camp Fire Central Oregon, a youth leadership nonprofit. She also serves on Bend’s Budget Committee. An uphill battle While the value of the Democrat endorsements can cause controversy, the local Republican party has the opposite problem. In Bend, a historically purple but increasingly blue city, registered Democrats outnumber Republicans nearly two to one. Since 2018, counts of registered Democrats have increased by about 5,000 while registered Republicans dropped by about 1,500. Still, Democrats don’t make up a majority of Bend voters, at 36%, only slightly higher than the proportion of non-affiliated voters. A big shift occurred in 2020, when four new

Melanie Kebler

Bernadette Strome

progressive candidates swept a City Council election. In 2022, Republican-backed candidate Chris Piper, a former councilor, fell short in a bid for mayor with 44% of the vote. That’s the closest any Republican — or other challenger — has come to winning in any of the last three Bend City Council elections. “When the Democrats ran in 2020, they were very organized,” said Mike Walker, a downtown Bend property owner and manager for 20 years. He’s a common critic of the City Council, picking apart city budgets and transportation statistics in op-eds for local papers. “It just flipped,” he continued. “They had such control on the Council, it almost scared some people off.” To Walker, the Council lacks people with experience running businesses who, “know how to get stuff done.” As to why there aren’t more opponents in the mix, many people are older and past the season for community service, he said. Younger business owners are busy with work and families. Relatively low pay could also be a factor. City Councilors receive a $30,000 annual stipend, plus benefits, while the mayor receives a $50,000 stipend. Deschutes Republicans Chair Keith Rockow said he wasn’t approached by anyone interested in running for Bend City Council. “It’s a big uphill battle,” Rockow said. “A lot of people don’t want to subject themselves to the scrutiny, the cruelty, the mudslinging, all those things that could come out.” Rockow said that while the party hasn’t officially endorsed a candidate for mayor, a small group within the party helped support Bernadette Strome, who filed for mayor six days before the deadline and still collected enough signatures to qualify for the ballot. Kebler has already reported nearly $5,000 in campaign fundraising this year and has the endorsement of the Deschutes Democrats. In an email to the Source, Strome wrote that she wants to prioritize housing affordability and “reduce the friction for homegrown businesses to encourage sustainable local jobs.” When asked if she planned to seek a party endorsement, Strome called her campaign non-partisan and said an endorsement would risk bringing national political divides into local government. A former student at Bend High School and Central Oregon Community College, Strome was a manager at the Jackson’s Outpost cafe in Northwest Crossing and runs a small vintage denim resale business. Her filing paperwork says she is not employed and has experience as a “homemaker.” —This story is powered by the Lay It Out Foundation, the nonprofit with a mission of promoting deep reporting and investigative journalism in Central Oregon. Learn more and be part of this important work by visiting layitoutfoundation.org.

NEWS

Hunger Action Month Shines a Light on Food Insecurity in Central Oregon September focuses on taking action to end hunger

Wally Hofmann

s food costs continue to rise, hunger cannot be solved by any single person or organization acting alone. Many families face difficult choices each month: paying for groceries or filling a prescription; repairing a vehicle or covering utility bills; buying food or paying rent. September is Hunger Action Month, a nationwide campaign raising awareness about hunger in America and encouraging people to take action. While hunger may seem like a distant problem to some, the reality is closer to home — here in Central Oregon, thousands of individuals and families struggle each day to put food on the table. For many Central Oregon residents, Family Kitchen provides more than just a meal. For years known as The Red Door, the Family Kitchen team is committed to addressing that need three times a day to hundreds of hungry guests. “It doesn’t matter who you are or what your situation is,” said Executive Director Olivia Townsend Parker. “We will be there with a tasty, homemade meal. We’re just happy to be part of a community that takes care of one another.” “Our mission is to uplift the community by serving nutritious meals to anyone in need with compassion and dignity,” said Townsend Parker. Founded in 1986, the organization was built on the idea that when money is tight, community members shouldn’t have to choose between meals and bills. In the first seven months of 2026 alone, Family Kitchen distributed more than 140,000 meals to Central Oregon residents experiencing hunger and food insecurity — up roughly 55–60% in monthly volume compared to last year. Unlike many assistance programs, Family Kitchen operates with a simple promise: Anyone who walks through its doors will be fed. The need is greatest among local laborers The need is greater than many realize. According to the 2023 ALICE Report (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed), 32% of Deschutes County households face financial hardship — nearly one in three struggling to afford necessities despite many adults working full-time. These are often the people who keep communities running every day: child care providers, food service workers, delivery drivers, cashiers and personal care aides whose incomes haven’t kept pace with the rising cost of living. One diner described what sets the organization apart: “Family Kitchen is different from other places I go to get free meals. Here, it’s so welcoming, and the meals I get are like something my grandma would make me.” Another guest, who has experienced periods of homelessness over the past decade, said simply, “Red Door is the one place I know I can rely on.” Wally Hofmann

Volunteers prepare a meal at the Family Kitchen.

Volunteer Gil eats lunch with a diner.

Real Stories of giving and receiving Family Kitchen’s impact extends beyond food. Its dining rooms provide a welcoming place where neighbors gather, socialize and find support — made possible by staff and volunteers who donate their time to serve others. As one regular diner put it, “It’s a warm, welcoming place where anyone can come get a free hot meal seven days a week and is a safe place in our community.” Volunteer Shannon Mara says helping others is one of the ways she finds hope and purpose during difficult times. “When you give back, it just brings so much peace and joy,” she said. “This ability to find usefulness is the glue that binds a community.” Another familiar face is Wayne, a lifelong Central Oregon resident who spends much of his time connecting people with resources and information. While Wayne doesn’t rely on Family Kitchen for meals himself, he regularly attends lunch to socialize and help others navigate housing, health care and food assistance. “I tell everyone I know and everyone I meet about Family Kitchen,” he said. Recently, Wayne has also become a regular volunteer. “I don’t like sitting around doing nothing. This is my way to help, to give back.” That spirit of service reflects the broader message behind Hunger Action Month, whose 2026 campaign emphasizes that ending hunger requires many people working together — farmers, volunteers, advocates, donors, businesses and neighbors all playing a role. “Assembly is required” is one of this year’s themes, highlighting the idea that meaningful solutions are built when communities come together with purpose. Whether through volunteering, donating, advocating or simply learning more, every action contributes to the larger effort. For Family Kitchen, that effort continues every day — one meal, one volunteer and one neighbor at a time. During Hunger Action Month, the organization hopes the community will recognize that hunger often exists quietly among friends, coworkers and neighbors, and that together, Central Oregonians can ensure no one has to face it alone. For the past 40 years, Family Kitchen has operated out of the kitchen at Trinity Episcopal Church in downtown Bend, a long-standing supporter that provides shared space, volunteers and financial resources. Information is available at familykitchen.org.

Bend hosts developer roundtable The Bend City Council and top City officials met with a group of developers in a public meeting Aug. 31, a roundtable meant to smooth over the biggest obstacles to getting the type of growth the City wants to see. Representatives from some of the region’s largest home building and industrial development companies were in attendance, including Hayden Homes, Pahlisch Homes, Brooks Resources, Taylor Development and Empire Construction. Also in attendance were a prominent commercial real estate broker, an engineering consultant working on many of the City’s largest master plans, and a representative with the Central Oregon Builders Association trade group. In a roughly two-hour meeting, the group discussed making the tree code less prohibitive to help speed up industrial land development, waiving or reducing System Development Charges for grocery stores and repurposed buildings in the City’s central urban renewal area, and helping spur commercial nodes in more areas of the City. Bend Mayor Melanie Kebler said the developer roundtable meetings aim to, “build on engagement the city and the development community have had over the years.” “A lot of these topics have come up from feedback from the development community,” Kebler said during the meeting. “We really want to dive in and hear more about what the market realities are, what the regulatory environment is like and what the barriers might be that we can work on and pull the lever at the city level.”

Notable projects moving ahead Several notable projects were on the Bend City Council’s agenda for Sept. 2, after the Source’s print deadline. The City was slated to move ahead with designs for turning downtown’s North Mirror Pond parking lot into a flexible space that could double as an event venue. Meanwhile, the City was ready to choose an engineering firm to design a widened roundabout at the intersection of Bond Street and Reed Market Road — a project the City prioritized after a swell of neighborhood concerns about congestion and wildfire evacuation routes.

7 VOLUME 30 ISSUE 36 / SEPTEMBER 3, 2026 / THE SOURCE

By Wally Hofmann

IN OTHER NEWS...

SEPTEMBER 3, 2026 / BEND’S INDEPENDENT VOICE - NOW DAILY AT WWW.BENDSOURCE.COM 8

By Clayton Franke

he City of Redmond plans to make some water more expensive in hopes residents will use less of it. Under a new tiered rate structure set to kick in next year, water used in excess of a certain threshold will cost more per gallon than it did before. Based on current water use, most cost increases would apply when residents start watering lawns during the summer months, raising bills by anywhere from a few cents to $50. The tiered rate structure was approved by the Redmond City Council Aug. 25. It’s set to go into effect April 1, 2027. The move is meant to encourage conservation amid drought, population growth and regulatory constraints on the City’s ability to pump additional groundwater in the future. “The more we can conserve, the better off we’ll be as a whole community,” Redmond Mayor Ed Fitch said during a July 28 City Council meeting. “No one likes any increase in rates on anything. But if we don’t do it, we’re going to be in worse shape.” Public works staff estimate the higher rates could reduce the City’s water use by 5%, or between 60 million and 75 million gallons a year. That would put the City well on its way to its goal of reducing summer water use by 10%. “Five percent is being very, very conservative,” Public Works Operations Manager Josh Wedding said July 28. “I think there’s a lot of opportunity to conserve more.” A combination of factors including drought, a lack of rain and canal piping projects have led to steady declines in the Deschutes Basin aquifer, a natural underground water storage that supplies Redmond’s drinking water. That’s led state regulators with the Oregon Water Resources Department to stiffen groundwater pumping rules. The agency denied Redmond’s 2023 application to increase its annual groundwater

limit, but allowed the City flexibility to pump more water in the summer, when demand skyrockets. City officials have said the current water permit will be enough for 15 to 20 years of growth. If the City wants to pump more groundwater in the future, it will be important to show the state it’s made efforts to conserve, Fitch said. To that end, Redmond has offered technology to monitor water use and rebates for weather-sensitive sprinkler controls and soil moisture trackers. It’s stopped short of offering rebates for residents who take out their lawns, a measure that Bend has taken up. Clay ton

9/3 – 9/12 THURSDAY

9/3

Fr a

e nk

A new tiered rate system is meant to encourage conservation amid drought and new regulations

How the tiered system works Given current water use in Redmond, upper-tier water rates would apply to about 37% of water bills throughout the calendar year. During peak sprinkler season in July, about three-quarters of the City’s 12,000 water customer accounts would be using some of the higher-priced water. Under the new structure, the price of the first 4,500 gallons a household uses per month will remain the same, at $1.65 per 100 cubic feet — the equivalent of 748 gallons. During the winter, the average Redmond household use falls within this first tier. If a household continues to use water, it gets progressively more expensive. The rate will be $1.73 per 100 cubic feet for gallons 4,500 to 9,000, jumping to $1.98 for gallons 9,000 through 15,700 and $2.23 for water used in excess of that. Redmond also charges a fixed base rate of $20.38. By comparison, Bend charges a roughly $30 base rate for the average single-family home, plus $2.48 per 100 cubic feet. In the summer, the average household with a 1,500-square-foot irrigated lawn would fall into the upper end of the third tier. Water users in that range could see bills jump between $0.50 and $3.50, according to City staff.

CONNECT W’S MUNCH &HAVE MINGLE A MEAL, MAKE NEW CONNECTIONS

Join ConnectW for a monthly gathering for professional women of Central Oregon. Held on the first Thursday of every month, this exclusive event fosters business growth, social networking and genuine friendships. Registration required. 11:45am-1pm, Feast Food Co., 546 NW7th St., Redmond. Plan to buy a meal.

SATURDAY

9/12

KINGS & QUEENS OF MULBERRY STREET PORTLAND POP-ROCK BAND HITS THE STAGE IN REDMOND

Get ready for lots of soul, fun and dancing as Kings & Queens Of Mulberry Street take to the stage at Maragas Winery. All tickets are general admission and nonrefundable. Please no pets and no outside food or beverages. Seating is first come, first serve. Winery open for tasting, drinks and apps beginning at 11:30am. Tickets required beginning at 5pm for the 6pm show. Maragas Winery, 15523 SW Hwy 97, Culver. $12.24.

VOLUME 30 ISSUE 36 / SEPTEMBER 3, 2026 / THE SOURCE

REDMOND NEWS

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FEATURE

SEPTEMBER 3, 2026 / BEND’S INDEPENDENT VOICE - NOW DAILY AT WWW.BENDSOURCE.COM

Community Asks for More Clarity as Bend-La Pine Schools Tweaks Its New Fundraising Policy Meanwhile, local organizations are raising funds for field trips as district funds dwindle By Dallas Finn Calvert

he 2026-27 school year is close at hand, and fundraising is shaping up to be a critical issue. On Sept. 8, the Bend-La Pine Schools board of directors will present updates to a hotly debated fundraising policy, first released in June for community review. Parents objected to several policy pieces, including those pertaining to gift reporting, what level on involvement students can have in fundraising activities and discussion of a centralized account that some feared meant monies raised at one school would be transferred to support another. The new fundraising approach at local schools is a move by district officials to “close the gap” with respect to student experiences. Fundraising by parent groups often supports classroom supplies, activities and extracurriculars. However, like many districts, schools within BLPS vary greatly in the amount of money they and their associated parent-teacher organizations can raise. Some raise a little; some a lot — and that poses sensitive questions about equity in public schools. Meanwhile, local organizations are addressing funding deficits by raising money for field trips. Kinsey Martin, BLPS executive director of policy & advocacy, first discussed the district’s new draft fundraising policy at the board’s April 14 meeting, saying the district wanted to ensure all students, “have an enriching experience, and we do right by them.” Of the 19 elementary and K-8 BLPS schools, two don’t have PTOs, Martin said. Additionally, many of the area high schools have clubs, groups and teams that fundraise specifically for their activities. In other districts, such as Portland Public Schools, officials in the past attempted to address potential inequities by directing any funds over a certain

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Funding shortages have led to increased fundraising efforts.

amount to a district-wide pot of money that all schools can access. However, under that model, fundraising seemed to decline. Some local parents worry implementing a similar process in BLPS would pull dollars from programs that worked hard to fundraise. The BLPS draft policy released in June created a flurry of emails and meetings among parents who objected to several points, including the concept of a centralized district fundraising account, concerned that meant one school’s dollars raised could be funneled to support another school. Also contested was the level in which students can participate in fundraising — which is governed by another policy — specifically they directly solicit donations, and how schools and PTO organizations report donations and gifts. The initial draft called for reporting of all donations and gifts, while the new draft stipulates only donations greater than $2,000 must be reported. Martin said there’ll continue to be input recorded for at least another month, if not longer. The school board doesn’t vote on district administrative policies, she explained. Draft policies are released for community review through board meeting packets, and comments are solicited and addressed, where applicable. Martin said it’s possible the board could ratify the fundraising policy at its Oct. 13 meeting, but it’s not a SNCO

given. It depends on how much community input the district receives after releasing the updated draft. “If we start not getting as much feedback, we know we’re getting closer, and then we might finalize them in October,” said Martin, the district’s primary facilitator for the policy. “But if we put something out one month, and we’re still getting a ton of movement and feedback, we’ll push out the adoption of those. So, we’ll see how people feel about this next round.” Taelor Little, president of the Highland Magnet School at Kenwood School Parent-Teacher Organization, was instrumental in coalescing multiple people, representing approximately 20 BLPS parent-teacher organizations, to review and request changes to the draft policy after its initial June release. She feels the new draft is a step in the right direction. “I think there have been some big improvements in this draft compared to the initial one we got,” said Little. “Is it perfect? No, but I think we’ve definitely got better wording, and it’s vastly better than it was. There’s still some stuff we’d like to get changed, but overall, we’re at a much better place than where we started.” Little said clarification is still necessary around the definition of student involvement in fundraising and reporting of gifts. Depending on the definition of student involvement, a fundraising body might have to adhere to additional state policies or change how they fundraise. The question then becomes whether students are removed from fundraising directly or whether groups need to request approval for students to participate. If the latter occurs, parents want clarification on the cadence for requesting district approval, as the time it takes to gain district approval could potentially preclude students from participating. Parents were also concerned about the suggestion of required reporting for all donations. “In the reading of that, would we have had to fill out the form for every box of crayons and every bag of goldfish that was donated?” Little said, calling that “hugely unworkable. In the new iteration, that bar is $2,000. And donations or gifts under $2,000 don’t need to be reported to the district.”

Students on a field trip at Sunriver Nature Center & Observatory.

FEATURE Additionally, there are other, more minor policy “There’s less science being taught in classrooms. A points that parents feel are open to interpretation. Litlot of the No Child Left Behind and standardized tests tle said, “Trust us” was the district’s response. But parand everything are so reading- and math-focused,” ents want specifics in writing. Rotunno said. “The amount of time spent on science “There are a fair amount of schools that still want has dropped significantly, because they are teaching to clarifications to be written down rather than just a verthe tests. They have to. We’re not faulting teachers for bal agreement or a ‘We wouldn’t interpret that that Fundraising by parent and student groups is a key that, but it just is a reality that kids are not learning as way,’” Little said. part of many extracurricular activities; meanwhile, much science as they used to.” In late June, the combined group that Little unit- dwindling district funding means traditional schoolKatie Eskeldson-Kaiser, SNCO education programs ed drafted a press release expressing its belief that the day events — such as field trips — have also become manager, has been at the nonprofit organization for policy would “allow donations for individual schools less common. With that in mind, several Central Ore- five years. She said the Covid-19 pandemic indirectly to be placed into district-controlled accounts, require gon organizations are fundraising to support local stu- impacted field trips. district approval for certain expenditures, prohibit dents and staff. The field trip fundraiser at Sunriver “Covid really kind of shook everything up as far as funding for some educational activities currently sup- Nature Center & Observatory is one of several oppor- how many programs were happening,” Eskeldson-Kaiported by parent organizations, and allow unspent tunities being offered to local educators. ser said. “Before Covid, we had a very full program callocally raised funds to be transferred into the district’s In 2025, SNCO served 5,788 students on field trips. endar, and then it definitely shifted as people tried to general fund under certain circumstances.” Roughly 66% of those were on full scholarships, accord- figure out new learning goals post-Covid. We still get However, the new draft’s language addresses those ing to Kayla Rotunno, SNCO development director, a lot of requests, but we’ve also been very proactive in misperceptions, Martin said. There is a “mush pot” as covering SNCO programming costs and transporta- trying to make it accessible for schools.” Martin refers to it, that she said is a general account tion costs incurred by the teacher’s school. Rotunno She said there’s been a “substantial drop” in the not tied to any school or group. If a business or organi- said SNCO created the field trip fundraiser last year to number of schools that SNCO is serving, which stems zation wants to donate broadly, that’s where the mon- support students traveling to SNCO and for its educa- from changes to educational criteria and funding shifts ey goes. The district is asking that schools and PTOs tional staff to go to schools. According to Rotunno, at away from field trips and extracurriculars. SNCO include information about that account on flyers and least eight other organizations are doing fundraisers to has secured grants over the past several years, she when solicitating donations or hosting events. Mar- support field trips. said, which then were offset by schools “with robust tin stressed that request, and subsequent donations, “It seems like as school budgets tighten up, they cut PTOs that already do their own fundraising, which is aren’t mandatory. Rather, Martin said, it’s a way to the programs that are seen as extra, bonus, cherry-on- a minority of the schools in Central Oregon.” Those make donators aware that they can give more broadly top type of programs.” Rotunno said. “They have to schools can pay their own field trip costs. Last year, the spend the funds that they have on in-classroom learning, SNCO field trip fundraiser raised $43,000. This year, and not just to a particular group or activity. “Last year, one of our high school girls’ softball which, of course, we understand. But we, as a field trip Rotunno said they’re hoping to reach $50,000. teams desperately needed an outfield fence and didn’t provider, want kids to get the immersive, hands-on type “What we are seeing is a significant uptick in scholhave access to the donations and sponsorships that of learning that they get when they’re on a field trip.” arship requests,” Rotunno said. “More than half of the The SNCO fundraiser supports all field trip costs, kids who came out on field trips last year were on scholsome of our other high schools have through business connections and neighborhoods,” Martin said. “We including the programming staff, district bus rental arship, so more than 50% of the students we’re serving had donors who said, ‘If I had known that I would have costs, and, where necessary, hiring a substitute teach- are on field trips for free because the community has donated to them, but the district never told us that er to cover the teacher accompanying the field trip. stepped up to help pay for that. It’s amazing.” Teachers can reach out to SNCO and request scholarA combined group of field trip providers is also runthese programs had other needs.’” Martin said there will be a group of district, com- ships. Rotunno said SNCO field trips engage students’ ning a fundraiser, facilitated by Nature Connect. It includes Discover Your Northwest, High Desert Musemunity and student members that decides where the minds around science-based topics um, Think Wild and Upper Deschutes centralized account monies are distributed. Watershed Council. Eskeldson-Kaiser said She also stressed that the initial draft of the SNCO SNCO collaborates with those and othnew fundraising policy was never intended to er groups to compare and analyze data be released and ratified immediately. She said A student strives to get a better look at the Sunriver pertaining to which schools “are being a “kind of telephone game” occurred after the Nature Center & Observatory. underserved and underrepresented in draft’s June release, and as information was outdoor programming.” Those groups relayed, it became skewed. work together “to make sure we’re real“We would never put out a policy and be, ly reaching all of Central Oregon, not just like, ‘We nailed it on the first try,’” Martin said, Bend-La Pine School district, but also Redexplaining district officials planned for conmond School District, Jefferson County versations and revisions to continue throughand Crook County.” out the summer. “There’s a delicate balance. Rotunno said there’s a misconception These are school-district policies. We have that field trips are funded and guaranteed, to own them, and we have to make sure that as they were many years ago, and that all everything in them meets our legal obligaarea schools can afford them. tions and our financial obligations, but then “There’s a ton of kids in schools here we also want community input and communiwho cannot afford outdoor access. We ty co-drafting.” have to really create opportunities for the Martin believes most issues the parent kids to connect with nature, and be outgroup raised will be addressed by the new side and learning outside, because that’s draft. The fundraising policy was developed not the reality for a lot of families who over two years, utilizing data from similar pollive in Central Oregon,” she said, adding icies enacted in the U.S., input from seasoned that schools from Culver, Gilchrist and policy developers and feedback from more Prineville also take field trips to SNCO. than 100 community members at a dozen lis“I think a lot of people who are the tening sessions. Martin said policy pieces perage to be donating to a campaign like this taining to booster clubs and parent-teacher grew up going on field trips, and they organizations have been moved to the bottom think maybe the money is a given,” Rotunof the policy “so that it’s clearer that only this no added. “It’s not a given. There are kids portion applies” to those groups. Additionalwho are not going on any field trips unless ly, the district will conduct training sessions we, as field trip providers, pay to make it about procedures and processes with respect happen. Our challenge is getting people to to the new policy, and plans to invite represenunderstand it’s not like it used to be.” tatives of parent groups and student leadership, and has a volunteer handbook that covers those, which it will disseminate.

Plethora of organizations raising funds as school year begins

11 VOLUME 30 ISSUE 36 / SEPTEMBER 3, 2026 / THE SOURCE

SEPTEMBER 3, 2026 / BEND’S INDEPENDENT VOICE - NOW DAILY AT WWW.BENDSOURCE.COM 12

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SOURCE PICKS WEDNESDAY

9/2

FRIDAY

WEED WARRIORS HELP PROTECT AGAINST INVASIVE WEEDS

9/2 – 9/6

9/4

SATURDAY

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Jazz James Photo

THURSDAY

VOLUME 30 ISSUE 36 / SEPTEMBER 3, 2026 / THE SOURCE

Join the Deschutes Land Trust and its Weed Warriors volunteer group, which meets several times a month to help remove non-native weeds such as spotted knapweed, teasel, mullein and Canada thistle from Land Trust-protected lands. 9am-Noon at Spring Creek, near Camp Sherman. Details provided after registration. Free.

9/3 Portello Lounge

IMPROV JAZZ NIGHT AT HAWTHORN FIRST FRIDAY ART WALK MEETS THE ENERGY OF LIVE IMPROVISATIONAL JAZZ

It’ll be an evening celebrating music, creativity and community with top-tier jazz musicians, hors d'oeuvres and drinks. 6-8pm at Hawthorn Healing Arts Center, Bend. Free.

FRIDAY-SUNDAY

BEND COMEDY FESTIVAL LAUGHTER GUARANTEED AT SEVERAL

TRIBUTE TO JUNE CARTER &CELEBRATE JOHNNY CASH THEIR TIMELESS LOVE STORY

LOCATIONS AROUND BEND

Get absorbed by the music and love story of the two country icons. With rich harmonies and heartfelt performances, Hayley and Blake bring classics like “Jackson” and “Ring of Fire” to life. Food and drinks available. Reservations highly encouraged! 6:308:30 pm at Portello Lounge, 2754 NW Crossing Dr., Bend. Free.

THURSDAY

9/4-9/6

After a sold-out debut and rave audience reviews, the Bend Comedy Festival returns over the Labor Day weekend for three days of stand-up, improv, sketch and late-night comedy at venues across Bend. Check out www.bendcomedyfestival.com. Friday, Sept. 4 from 2-11 pm; and Saturday, Sept. 5 and Sunday, Sept. 6 from Noon-11pm. Prices vary.

SATURDAY

9/5 Rustmouth

9/3

Thomas T and The Blue Chips, a seasoned four-man ensemble, gets the crowd moving with their mix of classic and contemporary Chicago and Texas blues 7:30-9:30pm, The Commonwealth Pub, 30 SW Century Dr., Bend. Free.

FRIDAY

KIDDOS GET CRAFTY

Kids ages 5-12 can explore creativity through a fun, hands-on art project while parents and caregivers get a little “me” time. Friday, Sept. 4 from 5:30-7pm at Bend Tea and Art Lounge, 1024 NW Bond St., Bend. $40.

towertheatre.org

(AND NIGHT)!

Explore the buzzing world of native bees as you wander through late summer wildflowers. Discover how bees are connected to native plants and how to make them at home in your yard or garden. Hosted by the Deschutes Land Trust. Registration is required. 11am-1pm at Camp Polk Meadow Preserve, outside Sisters. Free.

SATURDAY

9/5

DOLLY PARTON & TIM CURRY KARAOKE, DANCE & COSTUME PARTY HONOR THE MEMORY OF THE TWO ELECTRIFYING PERFORMERS

SUNDAY

RUSTMOUTH SUPPORT A LOCAL DELTA BLUES BAND

Live music at the best food cart lot in town! Listen to the jams of Rustmouth at a family-friendly, all-ages show. 3-5pm at Dogwood At The Pine Shed, 821 NE Second St., Bend. Free.

Tuesday, October 13

OTTMAR LIEBERT & LUNA NEGRA

9/6

JIMMY BUFFET PARROTHEAD LABOR DAY WEEKEND PARTY PARTY LIKE IT’S 5 O’CLOCK SOMEWHERE!

9/4

KIDS ART NIGHT OUT: FALL FUN GET A LITTLE TIME TO YOURSELF WHILE THE

NATIVE BEE WALK DISCOVER WHAT BEES DO ALL DAY

Pop up karaoke party with a look-alike contest honoring Dolly Parton and Tim Curry. Party starts at 8pm, with the winners picked at 11pm. Dance party featuring DJ BlackMVNV until 1am. $100 cash prize for best dressed Dolly or Tim. M&J Tavern, 102 NW Greenwood Ave., Bend. Free.

THOMAS T AND THE BLUE CHIPS GET READY FOR A FUN, FUNKY TIME!

Get ready for a fun day of live music by Shine(ola) and Mango Stew. Trivia, karaoke, games, best costume, prizes, food and drink specials and more. 1-11pm at The Commonwealth Pub, 30 SW Century Dr., Bend. Free.

Tuesday, October 20

THE WAR AND TREATY

Wednesday, October 21

TAIKOPROJECT

SEPTEMBER 3, 2026 / BEND’S INDEPENDENT VOICE - NOW DAILY AT WWW.BENDSOURCE.COM 14

First-ever Central Oregon metal fest set to rock at Silver Moon

By Wally Hofmann

n Saturday, Sept. 26, Silver Moon Brewing will trade its usual taproom atmosphere for a day of thunderous riffs, soaring vocals, and pounding drums as the inaugural High Desert Metal Festival arrives in Bend. Presented by ThrashSquatch Productions in partnership with DNA Entertainment, TOUR DE THRASH Productions and additional supporters, the event is designed to celebrate Central Oregon’s growing underground metal scene while connecting local fans with nationally and internationally recognized artists. Festival organizers describe the High Desert Metal Festival as more than just another concert. “This is about building community,” said Metal Festival founder Andrew Ingraham. “We want to bring together fans, musicians, promoters, artists, vendors and local businesses who share a passion for heavy music and underground culture.” The festival will be co-headlined by Artillery, one of Denmark’s most influential thrash metal bands, and Skelator, a rising force in traditional heavy metal. Founded in 1982, Artillery has earned worldwide recognition for helping define the European thrash metal sound. With more than four decades of music behind them, the Danish veterans continue to attract devoted fans across multiple generations of metal enthusiasts. Sharing top billing is Skelator, known for its blend of classic heavy metal influences, fantasy-inspired themes and high-energy live performances. The lineup also features a strong mix of regional and local talent, including Bend’s own Gravewitch, which has become one of Central Oregon’s best-known metal acts. “Having Gravewitch on the bill is important because they’re helping represent the local scene,” said Ingraham. “We wanted this festival to showcase what is happening right here in Bend alongside the touring acts.” Gravewitch will be joined by Summoner’s Circle, IATT (pronounced Eye-At), Celestial Wizard, Damage Overdose, and opening act Acidic Decay. Several of the bands are arriving in Bend as part of larger tours crossing the western United States. Gravewitch, Summoner’s Circle, and IATT are currently performing together on the Cosmic Convergence Tour, a 15-show run designed to introduce

fans to a diverse range of heavy music styles. Meanwhile, Artillery and Celestial Wizard are touring together independently, bringing additional momentum to the festival lineup. For local metal fans, the event represents a rare opportunity to see international artists perform alongside emerging regional acts in an intimate venue setting. The festival will take place inside Silver Moon Brewing’s main taproom and is open to all ages. Organizers hope the family-friendly atmosphere will encourage younger fans to discover live music while giving longtime metal enthusiasts a chance to connect with others who share their passion. Doors open at 3 pm, with Acidic Decay kicking off the music at 3:30 pm. Performances will continue throughout the afternoon and evening, concluding at 10 pm. In addition to live music, attendees can browse band merchandise, meet musicians and enjoy food from vendors on-site. Every band participating in the festival will have merchandise available for purchase. The festival’s sole vendor will be Ruen Designs of Myrtle Creek, Oregon, which will make the trip to Bend to showcase its handcrafted products. Organizers say support from local businesses, fans and artists has helped make the event possible and could pave the way for future metal festivals in Central Oregon. “Heavy metal has always thrived because of passionate communities,” organizers said. “We’re hoping this becomes something that continues to grow year after year.” Tickets are available for $15 plus service fees through BendTicket.com. Admission at the door is expected to be $30. With international headliners, a strong regional roster and a growing local metal scene eager for larger events, the High Desert Metal Festival aims to deliver a day of music while highlighting a corner of Bend’s arts and culture community that continues to gain momentum.

Trinity Chism

Local band Gravewitch is among the bands playing the first-ever Metal Fest.

John Mortensen

Artillery, hailing from Denmark, headlines the fest. Joshua Winstead

High Desert Metal Festival Sat., Sep. 26, 3-10pm Silver Moon Brewing 24 NW Greenwood Ave., Bend $17.59

Summoner's Circle.

VOLUME 30 ISSUE 36 / SEPTEMBER 3, 2026 / THE SOURCE

SOUND

High Desert Metal Festival Brings International Thrash and Local Talent to Bend

SEPTEMBER 3, 2026 / BEND’S INDEPENDENT VOICE - NOW DAILY AT WWW.BENDSOURCE.COM

ART MUSIC AUTUMN

DOWNTOWN BEND

OCT 2-4 BENDFALLFESTIVAL.COM

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Ticket and promote your events with BendTicket! Sidney Joseph

2 Wednesday boomer trio you’ve never heard of! Deb, Chris and Kevin bring high energy to memorable rock, blues and folk tunes you rarely hear in a live performance. With combined stage experience of over 50 years, their music has been described as “nuanced, tasteful and tight.” 5-7pm. Free.

Dogwood At The Pine Shed Nightcap at

Dogwood ft. DJ Briantology DJ Briantology is back for his first Friday residency bringing sophisticated soul, r&b, hip-hop, funk and disco to sip, mingle and dance to at Dogwood at The Pine Shed. 9pm-Midnight. Free.

The Commonwealth Pub Fluffalove This couple/duo arrived in Bend in August 2019 after living in Nashville, Tennessee for more than 20 years where they honed their craft among the best in the music business. They play “music for the soul” consisting primarily of 70’s folk-rock gems. 6:30-8:30pm.

Eurosports Sisters Food Cart Garden

Bob Baker and Mark Barringer Free live music every Friday from 5-7pm at Eurosports. This week it’s Bob Baker and Mark Barringer. Please feel free to bring your own chairs as sometimes we run out. 5-7pm. Free.

The Coyote Partner & Line Dance Lessons

at The Coyote Join us for fun dance lessons on Wednesdays at The Coyote in downtown Bend! Partner dance lessons from 6–7pm with Seth and McKenna. No partner or experience needed. Beginner-friendly line-dance lessons follow from 7–8pm with Alex Reininger. Learn two fun dances in one hour. Come solo and connect in a welcoming atmosphere. Enjoy great energy, a spacious dance floor, food, drinks, mocktails, pool tables and TVs. 6-8pm. Free.

Craft Kitchen and Brewery Comedy Open

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

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

Frankie’s – formerly Sisters Depot Sidney Joseph, a multi-instrumentalist whose greatest passion has been creating and performing music since he was just a wee lad, plays the Crosscut Warming Hut No. 5 on Wednesday, Sept. 2.

Bevel Craft Brewing Live Music at Bevel Catch talented local artists on the patio, grab a bite from our 4 on-site food carts and enjoy award-winning craft beer, wine, cider and more. Bring friends, relax and make it a weekly tradition. 6-8pm. Free. The Cellar Live Irish Trad Music with The Ballybogs! Live music featuring Bend’s Irish Trad band, The Ballybogs! Every Thursday at The Cellar. Seats fill up, so get there early! 6-8pm. Free.

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

The Commonwealth Pub Thomas T and The Bluechips Thomas T and The Blue Chips deliver a mix of classic and contemporary Chicago and Texas blues, playing fun, funky tunes that always get the crowd moving. This seasoned four-piece blues band is sure to bring a good time wherever they perform. 7:30-9:30pm.

Midtown Yacht Club Bingo For Bunnies!

Eastside Worthy Brewing Comedy Mics

M&J Tavern Musicians Open Mic All Musicians

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

Northside Bar & Grill Mellow Wednesday Open Mic Night Open mic night hosted by Derek Michael Marc! 5:30-8pm. Free. Portello Lounge Music Bingo Music Bingo is

hosted by the always entertaining Rachel Fishman, who keeps the crowd singing and laughing all night! It’s the perfect bonus to a night out enjoying great food, drinks and good company at Portello! 6:30-8:30pm. Free.

3 Thursday Austin Kitchen Paul Eddy Local solo artist

sings hits through the decades at this popular spot in the Brookswood Plaza shopping center. 5-7pm. Free.

Bend Cider Co. Covenhoven Music project

led by Denver-based, Joel Van Horne, will be taking the stage at Bend Cider, blending acoustic, indie and orchestral textures. Enjoy this late summer evening concert in our backyard. Light appetizers available, outside food welcome. Donations suggested for the artists. 7-9pm. Donations accepted.

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

Treat yourself to free entertainment on select Thursday nights. Hear fresh jokes from established comedians, cheer on first timers and drink tasty brews. 7-9pm. Free.

Hayden Homes Amphitheater “Comedy Tragedy Parody” Dominic Fike in North America Multitalented recording artist, singer-songwriter and actor. His latest mixtape Rocket was released in July of 2025 and reflects on life events through his personal experiences of growth and maturity. His 2023 album Sunburn embodies his range of artistry and unique blends of sound and style. 2020 saw the release of Fike’s debut studio album What Could Possibly Go Wrong, a critically acclaimed 14-song project. 7:30pm. $35-219. Hosmer Bar Bingo Night Your week just found its highlight—bingo! Drinks, good company and a little friendly competition. 7-9pm. Free. Portello Lounge A Tribute to June Carter & Johnny Cash - by: Hayley Lynn and Blake Johnston Celebrate the timeless music and love story of two country icons. With rich harmonies and heartfelt performances, Hayley and Blake bring classics like “Jackson” and “Ring of Fire” to life. Settle in with delicious food and drinks and enjoy an unforgettable night of music. Reservations highly encouraged! 6:30-8:30pm. Free for customers. River’s Place Olivia Harms Distinct blend of Texas, Bakersfield and Nashville country music with a honky-tonk sound. 6-8pm. Free.

Stoller Wine Bar Bend Haute Melange Haute Melange celebrates the music of Django Reinhardt and Stephane Grappelli, Gypsy jazz and beyond with Scott Johnson (guitar), Jon Harnum (trumpet and guitar), Bob Baker (violin) and Andrew Lion (upright bass. Guest artists will be joining on occasion. It’ll be a swinging blend of classic jazz manouche. No cover charge. 6-8pm. Free. The Winery at Manzanita- Bend Vino & Vibes Enjoy an evening of wine and Local community grooves every Thursday. Local singers and song writers welcome. 5-7pm. Free.

4 Friday The Astro Lounge Live local sounds with

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

Bend Cider Co. The Cider Janes The Cider

Janes return to our backyard, garden stage for an evening of beautiful harmony! Three talented women, weaving their voices together, creating unforgettable, haunting and toe-tapping covers and originals. Enjoy award-winning ciders, beer, wine and nonalcoholic beverages. Light appetizers available, outside food welcome. Kid and dog-friendly. Free. 6-8pm. Free.

The Capitol TULUM Latin Night The Latin club

experience you’ve been waiting for is finally here. Dance all night to a wide range of Latin genres as DJ ERIC FRANK & DJ LUCKY bring nonstop energy: reggaeton, salsa, bachata, merengue, Latin house and more. If you love Latin music, this is your First Friday spot. 9pm-2am.

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

Sonic Benders is a 5 piece dance-driven instrumental Roots Funk band made up of Central Oregon all-star musicians: “Brother Gabe” Johnson (Watkins Glen, MFG, Vibeshiftas) on guitars, Patrick Ondrozeck (Company Grand, The Mostest) on keys, David Watts (The Cutmen) on bass and Jarrod Donatelli (Fractal). 8-10pm.

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Singer-Songwriter Series: Geoffrey Louis Koch, Stevie V and Doc Cosden Another Singer-Songwriter Series for the month of September, featuring an intimate evening of original music from Geoffrey Louis Koch, Stevie V and Doc Cosden. 6-8pm. $10.

Hawthorn Healing Arts Center

Improv Jazz Night at Hawthorn What happens when a First Friday Art Walk meets the energy of live improvisational jazz? Find out Sept. 4 from 6-8pm as Hawthorn Healing Arts Center hosts an evening celebrating music, creativity and community. There’ll be top-tier jazz musicians, hors d’oeuvres and drinks, . Free.

High Desert Music Hall Pangaea After Dark - Expansion Fundraiser Join us for an evening of scintillating burlesque and preview the new space as we raise money for our expansion to transform the restaurant in the High Desert Music Hall into Redmond’s new favorite hangout. There will be raffle prizes, a silent auction, a giant grazing board and cold drinks. 5-10pm. $40-$60. M&J Tavern Thoughtbox, Concrete Island &

Tiger Penis Local guys, Thoughtbox, want you to know who Concrete Island and Tiger Penis are before summer ends. First Friday, Sept. 4, kicks off the Labor Day weekend with a blowout! This is the way to say goodbye to summer fever. 9pm. 21+ Always free, but do tip the bands, please! . Free, but please tip the bands!.

Silver Moon Brewing So Much House:

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

Tower Theatre Bend Comedy Festival After a sold-out debut and rave audience reviews, the Bend Comedy Festival returns Sept. 4-6. Enjoy three days of stand-up, improv, sketch and late-night comedy at venues across Bend. Festival passes include access to all events, exclusive perks, and special late-night programming. Noon-11pm. Tower Theatre Fahim Anwar at the Bend

Comedy Festival Fahim Anwar is a Los Angeles-based standup comedian, actor and writer. Fahim is touring on the heels of his third stand up special, “House Money.” The New York Times has listed Fahim as a “Most Promising Future Star.” 7-8:30pm. $40-$65.

Add your event to our calendar at bendsource.com

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17 VOLUME 30 ISSUE 36 / SEPTEMBER 3, 2026 / THE SOURCE

Black Butte Ranch - Lakeside Activity Center NTT Live NTT is absolutely the best

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CALENDAR

SEPTEMBER 3, 2026 / BEND’S INDEPENDENT VOICE - NOW DAILY AT WWW.BENDSOURCE.COM

Tower Theatre Don’t Tell Comedy All Stars: Bend Comedy Festival The lineup is always a surprise. Performing comics will be from Don’t Tell’s secret sets which have featured Jordan Jensen, Sam Jay, Rory Scovel, Joe List, Rachel Feinstein, Kyle Kinane, Aparna Nancherla, and more! 9:30pm. $40-$65. Volcanic Theatre Pub Bend Comedy Festival After a sold-out debut and rave audience reviews, the Bend Comedy Festival returns Sept. 4-6. Enjoy three days of stand-up, improv, sketch and late-night comedy at venues across Bend. Festival passes include access to all events, exclusive perks, and special late-night programming. Noon-11pm. Volcanic Theatre Pub W.I.T.C.H. VTP & 1988 Entertainment Presents: W.I.T.C.H. - We Intend to Cause Havoc! Outside in the Volcanic Theatre Courtyard on Friday, Sept. 4. Genre is Zambian Psychedelic Rock. Doors open 6 pm. Show starts 7pm. $30.

5 Saturday The Astro Lounge Live local sounds with

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

Bridge 99 Brewery Family-Friendly Karaoke Night Looking for family fun? You’ll find it every Saturday night at Bridge 99 Brewery. Family-friendly karaoke is hosted by DJ Jackie J and A Fine Note Karaoke Too from 6-9 PM. Adults, kids and good dogs welcome. 6-9pm. Free. The Commonwealth Pub Superball Superball is back to rock. You never know what you’ll hear, but guaranteed, it’ll rock! 8-10pm. Dogwood At The Pine Shed

Rustmouth Live music at the best food cart lot in town! Spend the afternoon with local delta blues band bRustmouth playing the outside stage from 3-5pm. 3-5pm. Free.

Hardtails Bar & Grill Cover City Cover City brings the party with all the classic dance hits from the ’70s to today. From disco favorites and rock anthems to pop hits and modern dance floor classics, their high-energy show keeps the crowd moving and singing along all night long. 8-10pm. $10. M&J Tavern Dolly Parton & Tim Curry Karaoke, Dance & Costume party Pop up Karaoke party Saturday, Sept. 5 with a look-alike contest honoring Dolly Parton and Tim Curry. Party starts at 8pm, with the winners picked at 11pm followed by a DJ BlackMVNV dance party til 1am. $100 cash prize for best dressed Dolly or Tim Pick your character, and lets celebrate. 8pm. Free, but please tip the DJ. Portello Lounge Samantha & Mason James:

Live Music at Portello lounge Bringing an unforgettable night of soulful originals, unique takes of covers you love, entrancing harmonies and musicianship that pulls you in. Together their chemistry on stage is magic: intimate, captivating and impossible not to get lost in. Reservations encouraged, but walk-ins welcome! 6:308:30pm. Free for customers.

River’s Place Saturday Jazz Sessions The M&Ms Trio, a Bend ensemble, explores the sounds of Thelonious Monk, Pat Metheny and John Scofield. 6-8pm. Silver Moon Brewing A Collective Subconscious, The Kronk Men & Cutter Marie A Collective Subconscious is a Portland, OR–based instrumental post-rock band delivering massive, sound-bath–like sets that both hit hard and mesmerize. 7-10pm. $12.24. Silver Moon Brewing Rod DeGeorge’s Guitar Gods Revue Rod and his powerhouse full band are taking the show outdoors for an unforgettable night of legendary rock guitar under the stars. No backing tracks. No shortcuts. Just 100% LIVE rock and roll. 7-10pm. $20.

EVENTS

CALENDAR Weird Al Yankovic

GoodLife Brewing Live Music in the GoodLife Beer Garden Free Live Music in GoodLife’s Beergarden every Sunday 4-6 and Tuesday 6-8. Full Kitchen, Full Bar, Food Trucks, Playground, Kids Menu, GOOD VIBES! 6-8pm. Free.

Initiative Brewing - The Hub Bingo at

VOLUME 30 ISSUE 36 / SEPTEMBER 3, 2026 / THE SOURCE

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

Mountain Burger Trivia Tuesdays Trivia Tuesday at Mountain Burger! Free to play! Prizes & fun every Tuesday! 7:30-9pm. Free. Silver Moon Brewing Sweater Weather Stringband Based on the beautiful Olympic Peninsula, cello and fiddle duo Claire Willow & Joey Gish perform toe-tapping arrangements of traditional old-time, Celtic, and bluegrass tunes, with some fun originals mixed in. 6-9pm. $12.24. “Weird Al” Yankovic hits the stage at Hayden Homes Amphitheater with his Bigger & Weirder 2026 Tour on Sunday, Sept. 6.

Festival ASSSSCAT, UCB’s signature improv show that has played to critical acclaim and sold out audiences across the country, is coming to Bend! 7-8:30pm. $40-$65.

Tower Theatre Geoffrey Asmus: Bend Com-

edy Festival Geoffrey regularly performs at the famous Comedy Cellar in New York City and was featured at Just For Laughs in Montreal and the Netflix festival in Los Angeles. 9:30pm. $40.

Velvet Lounge One Mad Man Music One Mad

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

Worthy Brewing - Main Pub and Brewery Almost Keep your Labor Day weekend vibe going on the patio at Worthy, with high-energy, nostalgic tunes from the 70’s to the 90’s brought to you live by Almost. 7-9pm. Free.

6 Sunday

Volcanic Theatre Pub Cristina Mariani Live A rising star in the stand-up scene, Cristina has mastered the art of “the modern struggle,” turning the anxieties of her generation into a shared experience of laughter and liberation. She made her breakout comedy debut on episode 517 of KILL TONY and completely took off ever since! 7pm. $40.

7 Monday Bevel Craft Brewing Bingo with Bren Supporting Think Wild Bingo with Bren is supporting Think Wild- Central Oregon’s Only Wildlife Hospital & Conservation Center! Half of proceeds go to cash prizes, while the other half helps rescue, rehabilitate, and protect native wildlife in Central Oregon. $2 per card or 6 cards for $10! This is a family-friendly event. 6-8pm. $2. The Commonwealth Pub Musician’s Open Showcase Hosted by The Session Calling all musicians! Come by Monday nights for a special opportunity to share your talent, connect with other artists and perform in a welcoming, collaborative and music-loving atmosphere. Hosted by The Session. Full backline provided, just bring instruments and chords. Signups at 5pm, music starts at 6pm. 5-9pm. Free. M&J Tavern Vinyl Night Monday Night just got

better!!! 9pm to Midnight. SupaFly will be your Dj. Bring your own vinyl and sign up to add it to the Playlist or pick from hers. 9pm. Free.

The Commonwealth Pub Jimmy Buffet Parrothead Labor Day Weekend Party It’s always 5 o’clock somewhere! So come join us for a fun day of music, food, drinks, games and more. There will be live music by Shine(ola) and Mango Stew, trivia, karaoke, games, best costume, prizes and more. Party on! 1-11pm. Free.

On Tap Locals’ Day Plus Live Music Cheaper

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

Hayden Homes Amphitheater “Weird Al”

Yankovic: Bigger & Weirder 2026 Tour 7pm.

River’s Place Bill Keale Join us for this special Labor Day weekend tradition! Hawaiian-American singer-songwriter renowned for his soulful interpretations of Hawaiian music, slack key guitar, pop and folk genres 6-8pm.

Tower Theatre Bend Comedy Festival

After a sold-out debut and rave audience reviews, the Bend Comedy Festival returns Sept. 4-6. Enjoy three days of stand-up, improv, sketch and late-night comedy at venues across Bend. Festival passes include access to all events, exclusive perks, and special late-night programming. Noon-11pm.

drinks all day and live music at night, get down to On Tap. 11am-9pm. Free.

8 Tuesday

The Commons Cafe & Taproom Open

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

The Commonwealth Pub Jazz Folks Tuesday Night Jazz Jazz Folks has been offering some of the best traditional and contemporary jazz (Monk to Miles to Marcus Miller!), fusion and world music in Central Oregon for close to a decade. 7-9pm.

Volcanic Theatre Pub Black Lips w/ Escapism Boasting an unapologetic southern-fried twang, with a clang and harmony that is unmistakably the inimitable sound and feel of the Black Lips. Doors @ 7PM - Show Starts @ 8PM. Presale - $25, day of - $35. 8pm. $32.43.

9 Wednesday The Commonwealth Pub Bobby Lindstrom Join International Blues Challenge solo nominee, singer, songwriter and bluesman Bobby Lindstrom for some soul-inspiring blues and rock. His riveting original songs reflect the stories of his life, his loves and his quest of helping and healing with music. 8:30-10:30pm. The Coyote Partner & Line Dance Lessons

Craft Kitchen and Brewery Comedy Open

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

Dogwood At The Pine Shed Transmission: ‘80s Dark Wave Social Club Immerse yourself in the sounds of the ’80s underground. DJ Mark Brody spins Joy Division, Bauhaus, The Cure, Clan of Xymox and more at Dogwood at The Pine Shed. A moody night of goth, post-punk and darkwave. Second Wednesday of every month, 7-10pm. Free.

Sunday, Sept. 13 11a.m. Drake Park

(Ducks splash at 1:30 p.m.) 20 prizes, including

$5,000 cash! Need not be present to win

All proceeds benefit KIDS Center, Friends of the Children, Saving Grace and Family Kitchen Sponsored by

Presented by

Credit Unions The Three Bend Working Together Rotary Clubs

First Presbyterian Heritage Hall Ríomas | Gather Your Resilience Album Release and Singalong After living in Bend for 15 years, Ríomas (previously known as Shireen Amini) returns to share their newest album Gather Your Resilience: Medicine for Liberation in this band-supported community singing experience. 7-9pm. $20-60.

Frankie’s – formerly Sisters Depot

Handpicked Series by Tom Nechville & Linda Leavitt An intimate music series featuring handpicked performers by Tom Nechville and Linda Leavitt. No cover changes, but donations suggested to support CoreSisters.org or the Latin Community Association. 6-8pm. No cover.

Hayden Homes Amphitheater Role Model Presents: Chuck On Tour Tucker Pillsbury assembles, disassembles, and reassembles different vibes, sounds, and emotions into Role Model. One moment, he’s crooning about his crush’s earrings over crunchy chords. The next, he’s spitting bars about staying home. Either way, the intimacy of his songwriting beckons connection. 7pm. TBD.

BUY TICKETS $5 EACH TheDuckRace.com

SEPTEMBER 3, 2026 / BEND’S INDEPENDENT VOICE - NOW DAILY AT WWW.BENDSOURCE.COM

Find us at this year’s

Wellness Care, Dentistry, Surgery, Nutrition, Allergy and Dermatology, Behavioral Counseling, Limited Same Day Urgent Care Appointments

Bend Oktoberfest Bark Bash

GUNG HO By Dallas Finn Calvert

Locals Get Ready to Rock at PorchFest

Three stages, six musical acts, food and drink vendors, and lots of space to roam at Discovery West

Saturday, September 19th 2pm-5pm

giving away free Pup-cups!

Jenny Don’t and the Spurs

Exceptional care. Tailored to your pet. 541-678-5440 bendvets.com

Jenny Don’t and the Spurs, a Portland alt-country band, will close out PorchFest 2026.

ocals will have a place to roam and rock out as the second-annual Discovery West PorchFest returns to the Northwest Bend neighborhood on Saturday, Sept. 12. The afternoon includes live music and food and drinks from Central Oregon vendors. From 4-9pm, six live acts will entertain across three stages at the roving neighborhood music festival. People can explore the neighborhood, touring

close out the music fest on the Discovery Corner Main Stage from 7:30-9pm. The Portland band tours extensively at home and abroad, and is known for its alt-country, energetic sound. “We loved seeing people walking from stage to stage last year, discovering new artists and enjoying the neighborhood in a completely different way,” said Valerie Yost, director of marketing for Discovery West. “Having

“We loved seeing people walking from stage to stage last year, discovering new artists and enjoying the neighborhood in a completely different way.” — Valerie Yost

Board Certified Plastic Surgeon (541) 316-0627 borstingmd.com

through open homes and check out Discovery Corner, which is the neighborhood’s community gathering place, along with retail shops, art installations and nearly 40 acres of parks, trails and open space. The variety of musical acts include Erin Cole Baker from 4-5:30pm and School of Rock students from 5:457pm at Discovery Corner. The Rusty Frets play the Kenyon Place Stage from 4-4:45pm followed by the Wild Hare Band from 5-5:45pm. On the Nine Neighborhood Stage, Pete Kartsounes and Alicia Viani perform from 6-7 pm. Jenny Don’t and The Spurs

Jenny Don’t and the Spurs close out this year’s event at Discovery Corner is going to make for a fantastic finale.” More information on the event is available at discoverywestbend.com/ porchfest. Discovery West PorchFest 2026 Saturday, Sept. 12 from 4-9pm Discovery West 1125 NW Ochoa Dr., Bend www.discoverywes bend.com/porchfest Free

EVENTS

TICKETS AVAILABLE AT

M&J Tavern Musicians Open Mic All Musicians

Northside Bar & Grill Mellow Wednesday

Portello Lounge Music Bingo Music Bingo is

Silver Moon Brewing Gathering, Fantastic Flying Foelschs & Spina Gathering is a black metal band from the Central Cascades of Oregon. Their sound can be described as technical, melodic, heavy and at times atmospheric. Their music is the embodiment of the environment which surrounds and inspires them. 7-10pm. $14.38. Silver Moon Brewing $5 Comedy Night There are many things in Bend that you can’t buy for five dollars. But $5 can get you a ticket to some of the best laughs in Bend! Whether you’re paying at the door or ahead of time, entry to this monthly comedy show is only 5 DOLLARS. 7:30-9pm. $5.

MUSIC

Dust Devils A rootsy trio defying musical

boundaries, blending old blues, country, swing and originals. Tight harmonies, stellar solos and contagious musical joy. Get ready for a good time! The Devils are Stu Kinzel (guitar, reso, vocals), Jim Roy (guitar, mandolin, vocals) and devilette Maggie J (bass, vocals). Sept. 5, Noon-3pm. East Lake Resort, 22430 Paulina Lake Rd., La Pine.

Public (ROCK) Choir Come join a fun, no-

stress group where all skill levels can GET LOUD and sing to their hearts’ content with a live band and group singing. Rock and pop songs only. If you love to sing, but don’t want to sing alone, we’re your people! No experience or skill required. 6-8pm on Mon, Sept. 7; Mon, Oct. 5; Mon, Nov. 2; Mon, Jan. 4; Mon, Feb. 1; Mon, March 1; Mon, April 5; Mon, May 3; and Mon, June 7. The Barrel Room at Upp Liquids, 550 SW Industrial Way, Bend. Contact: 541-728-3798. singbend@gmail.com. $20.

Tango in Bend Learn and dance Argentine

Tango. Whether a beginner or an experienced dancer, the community welcomes all. First class is free! 6:30pm, Intermediate Class; 7:15pm, Beginners Class; 8:30pm, 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

Summer Cinema Series at Juniper Preserve As the sun dips behind the high-des-

ert horizon, families gather beneath the open sky for a relaxed evening of film and fresh air. Bring snacks and a blanket for this cozy, free movie night series, which starts at 8pm on the trailhead lawn. Saturdays, 8-9:30pm. Through Sept. 5. Juniper Preserve, 65600 Pronghorn Club Dr., Bend. Contact: 5416935388. info@juniperpreserve. com. Free.

ARTS + CRAFTS

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. Ceramic Seconds on 2nd Sale Come

shop our perfectly imperfect pottery seconds at a discount! Find one-of-a-kind pieces that may have small imperfections or they simply didn’t come out as the maker intended. Sept. 5, 9am-Noon. Camp Clay Bend, 147 NE Olney Ave, Bend. Contact: 8082699992. kara@campclay. studio. Free.

Crochet Café Fancy Nancy will be the host

at Fancywork Yarn Shop for this two-hour hook session that's designed specifically to foster community among the crochet crew. All skill levels are welcome in this weekly drop-in event. Thursdays, 1-3pm. Fancywork Yarn Shop, 200 NE Greenwood Avenue, Bend. Contact: 541-3238686. hello@fancywork.com. Free.

Fall Mushroom Watercolor Learn to water-

color paint a toadstool mushroom with florals in Autumn color tones. Perfect for beginners and experienced artists. Sept. 2, 5:30-7:30pm. Bend Tea and Art Lounge, 1024 NW Bond St, Suite 101, Bend. Contact: 5416686708. info@bendteal.com. $50.

First Fridays Liminal Library at Pine & Prism The Liminal Library opens its doors at

Pine&Prism each First Friday in downtown Bend — a gathering place for the curious, the creative, and the energetically attuned. From Tarot readings and Aura photography to local artisans and craft mocktails, each month brings something new. Come curious and ready to explore! First Friday of every month, 5-9pm. Through Sept. 7. Pine and Prism Wellness Collective, 856 Northwest Bond Street #Suite 202, Bend. Contact: hello@pineandprism.com. Free.

Free Teen Open Art Hours Teens ages 13-

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

Intro to Lapidary - Learn to Make a Cabochon Learn the complete process of

transforming stone into a smooth, finished cabochon. Select a slab, plan design, trim it to shape on the saw, and move to the cabbing machine to grind, sand and polish your piece ready for jewelry or crafts. Tuesdays-Thursdays-Saturdays, 4-6pm. Through Sept. 29. DIYcave, 444 SE Ninth St. Suite 150, Bend. Contact: 5413882283. classes@diycave.com. $129. Bend TEAL

DANCE

two pairs of stud or hoop earrings, and get introduced to essential metalsmithing techniques such as cutting, filing, texturing, soldering and oxidizing silver. Leave with two pairs of earrings and new skills. Sept. 2, 6-8pm. DIYcave, 444 SE Ninth St. Suite 150, Bend. Contact: 5413882283. classes@diycave.com. $129 + material costs.

Kids Art Night Out: Fall Fun Give your kids a night of creativity and fun while enjoying a little time to yourself! Friday Night Kids Art Night is a special evening designed for children ages 5–12 to explore creativity through a fun, hands-on art project. Sept. 4, 5:30-7pm. Bend Tea and Art Lounge, 1024 NW Bond St, Suite 101, Bend. Contact: 5416686708. info@ bendteal.com. $40. Knit Night A cozy evening of creativity and connection hosted by Katie from Wool Town. Whether a seasoned knitter or just a beginner, this welcoming gathering is the perfect place to unwind, learn and create alongside others. Second and Fourth Wednesday of every month, 6-8pm. Teal Tea & Art Lounge, 1024 NW Bond St. Ste101, Bend. Contact: info@bendteal.com. Free. Lavender Wreath Making Join Shelly

Phillips in this relaxing aromatic lavender wreath-making workshop, using fresh local lavender to craft a beautiful and fragrant lavender wreath! Sept. 6, 2-3:30pm. Bend Tea and Art Lounge, 1024 NW Bond St, Suite 101, Bend. Contact: 5416686708. info@bendteal.com. $55.

OAC First Friday Open Studios & Gallery Show Tour artist studios, explore our

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

Open Art Nights Bring your art supplies and make art with your new creative community! No registration required, just show up with an open mind and willingness to create and connect. 18+. Questions? Email brian@theopenartscenter. org Tuesdays, 6-9pm. The Open Arts Center, 999 NE 2nd Street, Bend. Contact: 978-771-4635. brian@theopenartscenter.org. Free. Painting in Fiber Learn how to make a fiber-based landscape “painting” by layering sheer and semi-transparent materials can build color, depth and atmosphere. Registration required. This class is intended for adults. Sept. 2, 2-3:30pm. La Pine Library, 16425 1st St, La Pine. Contact: 5412413395. emilyc@deschuteslibrary. org. Free.

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. Academie De Ballet Classique, 1900 NE 3rd St #104, Bend. Contact: 541-382-4055. dance@abcbend. com. Price varies.

Adult Jazz Dance Community Class

September Exhibit at Tumalo Art Co.—”Body Language” Dee McBrien-Lee Dee McBrien-Lee’s exhibit, “Body

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.

Belly Dance Classes, all levels welcome Expand your movement language by

learning a variety of Belly Dance styles + build strength, grace, confidence, & community. Classes include a great workout, yoga, profes-

Jewelry Workshop: Hoop & Stud Earrings - Learn To Solder! Design and craft

Learn how to create a beautiful, aromatic wreath out of lavender at Bend Tea and Art Lounge on Sunday, Sept. 6.

Language,” opens during the Old Mill District First Friday Gallery Walk on Sept. 4. Focusing on abstracted figures and the way they interact with each other, each painting tells a story, which is up to the viewer to interpret. Sept. 4, 3-7pm. Tumalo Art Co., 450 SW Powerhouse Dr., Ste. 407, Bend. Contact: 541-385-9144. art@tumaloartco.com.

21 VOLUME 30 ISSUE 36 / SEPTEMBER 3, 2026 / THE SOURCE

Open Mic Night Open mic night hosted by Derek Michael Marc! 5:30-8pm. Free.

sional technique, functional fitness approach for alignment, longevity, & safety in movement and body. Performance opportunities for those who desire Wednesdays, 5:15-6:30pm and Thursdays, 5:15-6:30pm. Private studio in Bend. Contact: www.templetribalfusion.com/dance-bend. $20.

CALENDAR

CALENDAR Sew Club Fun, focused studio time on the first

SEPTEMBER 3, 2026 / BEND’S INDEPENDENT VOICE - NOW DAILY AT WWW.BENDSOURCE.COM

and third Monday every month! Work on projects with expert guidance from Sabrina of Bend Alterations (45+ years’ experience). First and Third Monday of every month, 5:30-7pm. FREAK’N ART, 1265 NW Wall st., Bend. Contact: 541-5087438. hellofreaknart@gmail.com. $40.

Sticker Creation 101 Turn art or favorite paper scrap into a sticker! Suitable for everyone ages 4+. Children under 10 must be accompanied by an adult caregiver. This beginner-friendly, drop-in workshop will offer materials, instruction and inspiration to help get you started on your journey as a sticker creator. Sept. 4, 10-11am. Redmond Library, 827 Southwest Deschutes Avenue, Redmond. Contact: 5412413395. emilyc@ deschuteslibrary.org. Free. Tradition Lives: Kreitzer Fine Art Gallery Opening Tradition Lives: A professional

for 60 years, Contemporary Realist Painter David Kreitzer exhibits translucent, sparkling water images as well as the figure, koi, fantasy and Mid West Heritage. Fridays-Sundays, 1-5:30pm. Through Oct. 31. David Kreitzer Fine Art Gallery and Studio, 20214 Archie Briggs Rd, Bend. Contact: 8052342048. jkreitze@icloud.com. Free.

Two New Exhibitions Open at Scalehouse Scalehouse presents two new exhibi-

tions: All the Colors of HÚE showcases artwork by local youth exploring creativity, self-expression and connection. Evidence of Experience features Bend artist David Wachs’s abstract works inspired by time spent outdoors and the natural world. Both exhibitions invite reflection on creativity, place and human experience. Sept. 4, 5-7pm. Scalehouse Gallery, 550 NW Franklin Ave, Bend. Contact: 5416402186. info@scalehouse.org. Free.

Watercolor at Drake Park Start at the Bend Tea and Art Lounge with Ms. Sarah of Lets Paint, and then walk to Drake Park to paint! Sept. 8, 10:30am-Noon. Bend Tea and Art Lounge, 1024 NW Bond St, Suite 101, Bend. Contact: 5416686708. info@bendteal.com. $55. Wood Turning 102 - Introduction to Bowls One of the most popular uses of the wood

lathe is to make beautiful bowls and platters. Each student will start with a bowl blank and create a small bowl from start to finish. Sept. 2, 6-8:30pm. DIYcave, 444 SE Ninth St. Suite 150, Bend. Contact: 5413882283. classes@diycave.com. $139.

WoodShop Basics One - Table Saw, Chop Saw and Band Saw Learn to use the

table saw, chop saw and bandsaw. Participants will builde the confidence to build utilitarian projects such as picnic tables, planter boxes, Adirondack chairs and much more, and also get one hour free in the Wood Shop. Sept. 8, 6-9pm. DIYcave, 444 SE Ninth St. Suite 150, Bend. Contact: 5413882283. classes@diycave.com. $129.

Woodshop Basics Two - Router, Planer and Jointer Learn to use the Router, Planer and Jointer. Once complete, participants will be able to create more precise techniques for edges and dimensions to improve your furniture and fine woodworking projects, and also get one free hour in the Wood Shop. Sept. 9, 6-9pm. DIYcave, 444 SE Ninth St. Suite 150, Bend. Contact: 5413882283. classes@diycave.com. $169.

PRESENTATIONS + EXHIBITS

11th Annual Antique & Classic Car Show The show is free to attend but registration

for a car in the show costs $25. Hot rods and muscle cars of the past. Car lovers will get some good dopamine hits at this event. Prizes awarded to the best cars in show. Sept. 5, 10am-2pm. The Village at Sunriver, 57100 Beaver Dr., Sunriver. $25.

Clear the Clutter Organizing coach, Rebecca Plasters, will help you clear the clutter in your life by sharing her Five Essential Steps to a Decluttered and Organized Home. Wed, Sept. 9, 5:30pm and Sat, Sept. 19, 2pm. Central Library, 61956 SE Santorini Street, Bend. Contact: 5412413395. emilyc@deschuteslibrary.org. Free.

EVENTS

TICKETS AVAILABLE AT

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

of learning with Jon Bullock a for an engaging exploration of how public education is changing and where it’s headed next. Discover a vision for the future that balances technological innovation with compassionate, human-centered learning. Complimentary for guests and the community. Sept. 8, 5-7pm. Provisions Market at SCP Redmond, 521 SW Sixth St., Redmond. Contact: kym@scphotel.com. Free.

THEATER

Angels in America (Theater) The most

ambitious American play of our time: an epic that switches between realism and fantasy, from the tragedy of AIDS to the camp comedy of drag queens to the death or at least the absconding of God. From Bend’s only professional theater that brought you ONCE and Great Comet! 7pm on Thu, Sept. 3; Fri, Sept. 4; and Sat, Sept. 5. The Greenhouse Cabaret, 1017 NE 2nd St., Bend. Contact: info@thegreenhousecabaret.com. $19-79.

WORDS

Artist’s Way Part Two: Walking In This World Join Reill Coaching for part two of Julia

Cameron’s The Artist’s Way, designed to foster an environment of creative growth and learning for eight participants who’ve already completed the first book. Sept. 8, 6-7:30pm. Bend Tea and Art Lounge, 1024 NW Bond St, Suite 101, Bend. Contact: 5416686708. info@bendteal.com. $150.

Book Launch with hart Richie @ Dudley’s Bookshop Cafe Dudley’s is thrilled

to host the book launch for local author Marina Richie’s latest book, “Feathered Forest: Aloft with Birds in Ancient Trees,” on Sept. 8 at our downtown location. Free and open to the public! Sept. 8, 5:30-7pm. Dudley’s Bookshop Cafe, 135 NW Minnesota Ave., Bend. Contact: dudleysbookshopcafe@gmail.com. Free.

Classics Book Club Join the discussion of “A Handful of Dust” by Evelyn Waugh. Sept. 9, 6-7pm. Roundabout Books, 900 NW Mount Washington Dr., #110, Bend. Contact: 5413066564. events@roundaboutbookshop.com. Free.

sion of “The Things We Never Say” by Elizabeth Strout. Sept. 2, 6-7pm. We will be discussing The Loneliness of Sonia and Sunny: A Novel by Kiran Desai. Sept. 2, 6-7pm. Roundabout Books, 900 NW Mount Washington Dr., #110, Bend. Contact: 5413066564. events@roundaboutbookshop.com. Free.

Public Lands in the High Desert-High Desert Project Over the course of four

events, participants will engage in immersive experiences and thoughtful dialogue about the past and present of public lands and what we hope for the future of these lands. Apply today! Space is limited. Event 3 date TBD. Wed, Sept. 9, 5:308:30pm, Mon, Sept. 14, 5:30-8:30pm and Fri, Oct. 16, 8am-5pm. High Desert Museum, 59800 S. Highway 97, Bend. Contact: 541-382-4754 x284. hdp@highdesertmuseum.org. Free.

ETC.

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. Tea Tasting with Al Whether you’re a longtime tea enthusiast or just beginning your tea journey, this welcoming tasting is the perfect way to expand your palate, learn something new and find your next favorite tea! Sept. 2, Noon1pm; Sept. 3, 6-7pm. Bend Tea and Art Lounge, 1024 NW Bond St, Suite 101, Bend. Contact: 5416686708. info@bendteal.com. Free (but please RSVP).

OUTDOOR EVENTS Cascades Futurity and Aged Event

Experience the West’s premier cutting horse competitions as elite riders and horses compete for over $680,000 in payouts and prizes. Cutting is one of the most exciting western equine sports, where horse and rider work together to separate a single cow from the herd using instinct, athleticism and precision. Sept. 1-13, 8am-8pm. Deschutes County Fair & Expo Center, 3800 SW Airport Way, Redmond, Redmond. Contact: info@ cascadesfuturity.com. Free. Marina Richie

Ducks vs. Boise State Watch Party Let’s Go Ducks! Sept. 5, 12:30-4pm. The Commonwealth Pub, 30 SW Century Dr., Bend. Friday Night Races Join six unsanctioned

Friday night downhill mountain bike races at Mt. Bachelor’s Bike Park. Test your skills on different tracks, compete in every event or choose your favorite trail. This year, Mt. Bachelor will be using chip timing to enhance the racing experience for all racers involved. Fri, Sept. 4, 3:30-7:30pm. Mt. Bachelor, 13000 Century Drive, Bend. $15.90$21.20.

Native Bee Walk Explore the buzzing world of native bees as you wander through the late summer wildflowers of Camp Polk Meadow Preserve. Discover what bees do all day (and night!), how they’re connected to native plants and what you can do to make bees at home in your yard or garden. Hosted by the Deschutes Land Trust. Registration is required. Sept. 5, 11am-1pm. Camp Polk Meadow Preserve, outside Sisters, Sisters. Contact: 541-330-0017. event@deschuteslandtrust.org. Free. Seahawks vs. Patriots Watch Party

Game on! Sept. 9, 5:30pm. The Commonwealth Pub, 30 SW Century Dr., Bend.

Connect W’s Munch & Mingle in Redmond Join ConnectW for a monthly noon

gathering where professional women of Central Oregon connect over meaningful conversations. Held on the first Thursday of every month, this exclusive event fosters business growth, social networking and genuine friendships. Seating limited to 12. Registration required. Sept. 3, 11:45am-1pm. Feast Food Co, 546 NW 7th St, Redmond. Contact: 541-410-1894. info@connectw.org. Cost of meal.

DEFENDING OREGON’S ELECTION PROCESS: An Up-to-date Report from Secretary of State Tobias Read Come hear Secretary Read’s important update on the current challenges facing voters in Oregon’s November midterm elections.Sept. 3, 11:30am1pm. Central Library, 61956 SE Santorini Street, Bend. Contact: 541-931-9096. info@lwvdeschutes.org. Free.

Sisters Astronomy Club members will be on hand with telescopes to share their knowledge and views of the sky with attendees. The event will be at the west end of the south parking lot of Sisters High School. The star party will be cancelled if inclement weather interferes. Fri, Sept. 4, 7-9pm and Fri, Oct. 2, 6:30-8:30pm. Sisters High School, 1700 McKinney Butte Rd., Sisters. Free.

Gaia GPS MasterClass Learn to get more from Gaia GPS and plan your adventures with confidence. This hands-on masterclass covers topographic maps, aerial imagery, overlays, route planning, tracks, waypoints, offline maps and advanced features. Bring your planning device and follow along as we explore practical tools for smarter navigation and remote travel. Sept. 2, 6-8pm. Oregon Adventure Trucks, 63622 NE Andesite Street, Suite 110, Bend. Contact: 541-550-7331. accounts@oregonat.com. 30.

Red Cross Blood Drive Drop in for an hour

Hidden Treasures: Unleashing, the Full Potential of Familysearch’s Catalogue Learn advanced, search techniques

Sisters Astronomy Club Star Watch The

VOLUNTEER

to donate blood and help others. The Red Cross provides about 40% of our nation’s blood and blood components, all from generous volunteer donors. Only about 3% of age-eligible people donate blood yearly. Each new donor helps us meet patient needs. Sept. 4, 11:30am-4pm. Central Library, 61956 SE Santorini Street, Bend. Contact: 541-241-2630. lizg@dpls.lib.or.us. Free.

and new features within FamilySearch’s newly released catalog. Learn how to uncover rare documents, records and resources that can transform genealogical research. Sept. 8, 10amNoon. Williamson Hall at Rock Arbor Villa, 2200 NE Hwy 20, Bend. Contact: 541-317-9553. info@ bendgenealogy.org. Free.

Think Wild Youth Volunteer Program Ages 14-17 Open to all 14-17 year olds!

Volunteers will gain behind-the-scenes look into the career of wildlife rehabilitation, what it takes to run a wildlife hospital, care for wildlife ambassadors, educate the public about wildlife coexistence, and more. Please contact volunteer@thinkwildco.org to RSVP Second Wednesday of every month, 2:30-4pm. Through Sept. 9. Think Wild, 62410 Erickson Road, Bend. Contact: 541-241-6538. volunteer@thinkwildco.org. Free.

New Direction For Public Lands Public lands and wildlife face sustained attacks from outdated laws, agency mismanagement and extractive policy agendas. This presentation introduces the New Directions for Public Lands, a grassroots effort advancing a bold legislative vision to overhaul public lands law and governance. Come learn about this new shared vision! Sept. 9, 4:15-5:30pm. Central Library, 61956 SE Santorini Street, Bend. Contact: bitterbrushbroadband@gmail.com. Free.

Weed Warriors Join the Deschutes Land Trust and our Weed Warriors to protect our lands from invasive weeds! The Weed Warriors volunteer group meets several times a month to help remove non-native weeds like spotted knapweed, teasel, mullein and Canada thistle from Land Trust protected lands. Sept. 2, 9amNoon. Spring Creek, directions provided upon registration, near Camp Sherman. Contact: 541330-0017. event@deschuteslandtrust.org. Free.

Tips for Staying in the Room Advice from bestselling author Jane Kirkpatrick on staying focused and productive. Writers are so creative, especially in finding ways to distract themselves from staying in a room to write. Join bestselling author Jane Kirkpatrick as she shares tips for how she’s stayed in the room to write her 42 books. Sept. 8, 5:30-7pm. Central Library, 61956 SE Santorini Street, Bend. Contact: 541-3121032. lizg@dpls.lib.or.us. Free.

GROUPS + MEETUPS

Bend ET Expert Lab: Value-Driven and Empathic Conversations in the Workplace @ COCC Discover why the most

Celebrate Marina Richie’s book launch at Dudley’s Bookshop Café on Tuesday, Sept. 8. Her book is titled “Feathered Forest: Aloft with Birds in Ancient Trees.”

Commerce & Coffee @ Bend Magazine

Network at Bend Magazine while enjoying coffee from Thump Coffee and morning bites courtesy of Black Diamond Financial! Sept. 8, 8-9:30am. LivBend realestate, Bend Magazine, 974 Riverside Blvd, Bend. $10/Free for members.

challenging conversations aren’t just about what’s said—they’re about how people feel. Through interactive discussions, self-reflection, partner activities and real-world practice, participants can gain practical tools to build trust, strengthen empathy, foster psychological safety and navigate difficult workplace conversations with confidence. Sept. 9, 4-6pm. Central Oregon Community College, 2600 NW College Way, Bend. $15 Bend Chamber Members | $25 Non-Chamber Members.

EVENTS + MARKETS

End Of Summer Luau Summer has flown

by! Celebrate the end of the season with island vibes, good beer and friendly competition. Come catch the last wave of summer at UPP Liquids. Sept. 5, 6-10pm. Upp Liquids, 550 SW Industrial way, Bend. Contact: 5417283288. tempest@ uppliquids.com.

THREADS N’ TUNES Grab your friends and

meet us at Threads N’ Tunes for an afternoon of vintage finds, good beats, cold beer and community. DJ Timothy Bee spinning 11am-3pm. Every first Sunday of the month. Sept. 6, 11am-4pm. Upp Liquids, 550 SW Industrial way, Bend. Contact: 5416400118. vintagehouse81@gmail.com.

23 VOLUME 30 ISSUE 36 / SEPTEMBER 3, 2026 / THE SOURCE

Speaker Series Featuring Jon Bullock at SCP Redmond Hotel Step into the future

Current Fiction Book Club Join in a discus-

CALENDAR

SEPTEMBER 3, 2026 / BEND’S INDEPENDENT VOICE - NOW DAILY AT WWW.BENDSOURCE.COM

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EVENTS

TICKETS AVAILABLE AT

CALENDAR COGA

FAMILY + KIDS

Badass Sound Bath This isn’t your typical sound bath and that’s exactly the point. Whether you’re new to sound healing or looking for something with a little more edge, this experience meets you exactly where you are. Sept. 8, 6:30-7:30pm. Continuum, A School of Shadow Yoga, 155 SW Century Drive, Suite 112, Bend. $28.29.

Art for Pre-school Class A class designed

Breathe & Reset Free Breathwork for Veterans A free Conscious Connected Breath-

work session for veterans. Through guided, continuous breathing, step out of the thinking mind, reconnect with your body and create space for release, clarity, and renewal. No prior breathwork experience is needed. Come as you are. Breathe, feel and reconnect. 6-7pm on Wed, Sept. 9 and Wed, Oct. 7. Continuum, A School of Shadow Yoga, 155 SW Century Drive, Suite 112, Bend. Contact: 5416686183. confluencebreathbody@gmail.com. Free.

Baby Ninja 6-Week Summer Series

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

Balloons with Tyler at Initiative! Things

get a little weird—in the best way. A balloon artist creates full-blown masterpieces right at visitors’ tables: dragons, aliens, and much more. Technically for kids, but adults get just as into it. Tips encouraged. Wednesdays, 5:30-7:30pm. Initiative Brewing - The Hub, 424 NW Fifth St., Redmond. Contact: 541-527-4380. followtherabbit@initiativebrew.com. Free.

Hello! Storytime Hello, and welcome to

Roundabout Books Storytime! We are looking forward to sharing stories, movement and a touch of music with 0-5 year olds, geared toward those younger ages. There will be a heavy emphasis on fun, so bring your listening ears and a smile. Wed, Aug. 12, 10:30am, Wed, Aug. 26, 10:30am, Wed, Sept. 9, 10:30am and Wed, Sept. 23, 10:30am. Roundabout Books, 900 NW Mount Washington Dr., #110, Bend. Contact: 5413066564. events@roundaboutbookshop.com. Free.

Kid’s Yoga at Namaspa! Kids Yoga Mon-

days at Namaspa! Our kids classes (open to kids ages 3 and up) run in tandem with adult classes and in a separate and dedicated kid-friendly space, so parents can practice while their kids spend time with other kids and one of our certified kids yoga instructors.⁣ Mondays, 4-5pm. Namaspa Yoga Studio, 1135 NW Galveston Ave., Bend. Contact: 541-550-8550. soundbathstillness@gmail.com. $10.

Kids Line Dance Lessons Free line-dance

lessons for kids every Wednesday, 5–6pm at The Coyote, taught by Alex Reininger. Recommended ages 4–12. Kids stay active while parents enjoy food, drinks or mocktails, pool tables, TVs and full bar seating. Spacious dance floor and family-friendly fun in downtown Bend. Wednesdays, 5-6pm. The Coyote, 910 NW Harriman St., Bend. Contact: mindfulmotionmentor@gmail.com. Free.

Kids Open Gym This event is for kids ages

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

Kids Open Gym is on Saturdays from 5-7:30pm at Central Oregon Gymnastics Academy, and is for kids ages 6-12. Gym includes trampolines, foam pits, ninja cage, obstacle course, fort building and more.

Mini Ninja 6-Week Summer Series

Children will develop important coordination skills, improve balance, and build confidence as they tackle Ninja Warrior obstacle courses designed around a weekly theme. 6-week series. Wednesdays, 4:15-5pm, Fridays, 10-10:45am and First Friday of every month, 10-11:45am and 4:15-5pm. Through Sept. 4. Free Spirit Yoga + Ninja + Play, 320 SW Powerhouse Drive, Suite 150, Bend. Contact: 541-241-3919. info@ freespiritbend.com. $134.

Nature Kids: Wings of Wonder! Join the Deschutes Land Trust for Nature Kids! Get outside and explore the nature of Central Oregon on guided family nature walks just for kids ages 5-10. We’ll take a magical journey through the world of one of the most famous travelers in the animal kingdom, the monarch butterfly. Sept. 9, 2:30-4pm. Shevlin Park, 18920 Shevlin Rd., Bend. Contact: 541-330-0017. event@deschuteslandtrust.org. Free. Ninja Elite 6-Week Summer Fast-paced and designed with challenging Ninja Warrior obstacle-based circuits, kids will learn new fitness conditioning techniques, parkour moves, and dynamic climbing and gymnastics movements. All levels are welcome. 6-week series. Thursdays, 5:30-6:30pm and Thursdays, 5:30-6:30pm. Through Sept. 3. Free Spirit Yoga + Ninja + Play, 320 SW Powerhouse Drive, Suite 150, Bend. Contact: 541-241-3919. info@freespiritbend. com. $144. Ninja Night Drop the kids off for an action

packed evening of ninja obstacle courses, games, climbing, swinging, and fun with friends! Our coaches lead exciting activities that build confidence, encourage teamwork, and keep kids active in a safe, engaging ninja gym. Saturdays, 5:30-8:30pm. Through Sept. 12. Free Spirit Yoga + Ninja + Play, 320 SW Powerhouse Drive, Suite 150, Bend. Contact: 5412413919. info@freespiritbend.com. 40.

FEATURED EVENTS PANGAEA AFTER DARK - GAMER EDITION

$5 COMEDY NIGHT

High Desert Music Hall

Silver Moon Brewing

FRIDAY SEP 4 @ 5:00pm

WEDNESDAY SEP 9 @ 7:30pm

Pop-Up Exhibits with the Children’s Museum of Central Oregon Enjoy some of

the museum’s most loved exhibits! This program is intended for children ages 0-11, and all children must be accompanied by a caregiver. Come join the Children’s Museum of Central Oregon and check out some favorite exhibits during this open playtime. Experiment, create, collaborate, and explore! Sept. 9, 10-11:30am. Redmond Library, 827 Southwest Deschutes Avenue, Redmond. Contact: 541-312-1032. lizg@dpls.lib.or.us. Free.

Stone Soup : A Community Immunity Brew for Young Herbalists Where ancient

folktales meet modern wellness and everyone leaves with a full heart and a stronger immune system. In this hands-on, intergenerational class at The Peoples Apothecary, live that story together. Stone and broth provided, bring one food item to add, just like the story! Sept. 6, Noon2pm. The Peoples Apothecary, 1841 NE Division St Ste 150, Bend. Contact: 5417282368. classes@ thepeoplesapothecary.net. $10.

FOOD + DRINK

Make Your Own Tea with Metolius Tea Join Sevi from Metolius Tea for a hands-

on journey into the art of tea blending! Sept. 5, 10-11:30am. Bend Tea and Art Lounge, 1024 NW Bond St, Suite 101, Bend. Contact: 5416686708. info@bendteal.com. $46.

HEALTH + WELLNESS

Activating Your Intuition In a world filled

with noise, stress and constant outside opinions, people often search for ways to reconnect with themselves and learn to trust their inner guidance. If that sounds familiar, this class is for you! Sept. 9, 6-8pm. Sunnyside Up Farm, 63265 Silvis Rd, Bend. Contact: 541-420-0794. info@ sunnysideupbend.com. $30.

Fall Body Love Cleanse! Curious about a healthy way to detox? Starting in September, join a three-week guided Ayurvedic cleanse at The Peoples Apothecary. This is a cleanse where participants still eat food while actively cleansing their bodies of toxins that create brain fog, lethargy and other health issues. Sept. 2, 6:30-8pm. The Peoples Apothecary, 1841 NE Division St Ste 150, Bend. Contact: 5417282368. classes@ thepeoplesapothecary.net. $126. Girl Let Go x Stay Grounded Bend // Yoga & Watercolor at Pioneer Park Join

Sonja of Stay Grounded Bend and Amanda of Girl Let Go Watercolors for an evening of relaxation, creativity, and community. Sonja will teach 45 minutes of beginner-friendly yoga followed by 60 minutes of watercolor instruction taught by Amanda. This class will be held outdoors at Pioneer Park. Sept. 7, 5:30-7:30pm. Pioneer Park - Bend, 1565 NW Wall St, Bend. Contact: hello@ thegirlletgo.com. $35.

Inner Child Intuitive Readings with Sarah Noble Work with oracle cards, intuition, energy realignment and somatic practices to uncover what your inner child is wanting to see, understand and heal. Plus, learns ways to connect with your inner child, listen to your body, shift old patterns and cultivate a deeper relationship with yourself. Sept. 5, 11am-2pm. The Peoples Apothecary, 1841 NE Division Street, Bend. Contact: (541) 728-2368. hello@sarahnoble.com. $100.

Intro to Pelvic Vitality for men Men’s

pelvic health is largely ignored until structural dysfunction sets in. This 2-hour immersive workshop bridges the gap between ancient somatic practices (yoga/breathwork) and modern biomechanics to address the root causes of pelvic floor stagnation in men 40+. Sept. 2, 7-9pm. Hawthorn Healing Arts Center, 39 NW Louisiana Ave., Bend. Contact: 541.668.7594. andrew@ masculineembodiment.com. $49-65.

Rise Into Your Inner Light: a Chakradance™ Journey This journey is inspired

by the Crown Chakra, the center of presence, spiritual connection and inner illumination. This 90-minute Chakradance™ journey at Hanai is an invitation into stillness, clarity and gentle elevation. Sept. 5, 10-11:30am. Hanai Center, 62430 Eagle Road, Bend. Contact: sacredsoulflowbend@gmail.com. From $49.87.

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25 VOLUME 30 ISSUE 36 / SEPTEMBER 3, 2026 / THE SOURCE

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

C SEPTEMBER 3, 2026 / BEND’S INDEPENDENT VOICE - NOW DAILY AT WWW.BENDSOURCE.COM

CULTURE

There But for the Grace of Dolly, Go I

If you think Dolly Parton came from nothing, you may not be listening to enough Dolly Parton By Teafly Peterson

Teafly Peterson

am a devoted disciple of the Holy House of Dolly Parton. I have been a member of this congregation for a long time. I consider wildflowers, eagles and butterflies, rhinestones, long nails and big hair all sacred. I dress so my outside matches my inside. I walk to the beat of my own banjo. I don’t dismiss anything without fully understanding its value — you may see a box of rags, I see a magical coat. I have prayed at the altar of cheeky jokes and great songwriting for as long as I can remember. I don’t believe my love for Dolly is unique or special. I am one of millions and millions of people who love her, who, like me, have made pilgrimages to the hallowed woods of Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, to consume and love all things Dolly and roller coasters. It feels like being a part of a very special club that everyone gets to belong to. If you tell me a Dolly story, I will tell you three in return, give you a playlist, two movie suggestions and a couple of great You Tube videos to Google. What can I say? The only religious mission I’ve ever been on is to spread the good word of Dolly Rebecca Parton Dean. The warmest place I have ever lived was in the glow of Dolly. She showed me how to glow myself — to be proud of the unique, weird, wonderful human I am. When the light in my own life felt dim, I could always count on Dolly to share some of hers with me. Her music helped me see through tunnels of darkness in my life and realize that the glow carrying me forward was actually me. In all the news stories and conversations I’ve overheard this week about Dolly, there is one thing I’ve noticed that people haven’t quite gotten right about her. I keep hearing people say, “Dolly came from nothing.” Every time I hear someone say this, I think, “Well, if you think Dolly Parton came from nothing, you may not be listening to enough Dolly Parton.” She came from the Great Smoky Mountains, where she lived in awe of the natural world, getting lost in those hallowed woods chasing butterflies. She came from a family that loved her dearly. She came from singing on the porch and knowing a good story can

help mend your heart. You can listen to her music and she will tell you this directly. (This is where I would hand you a playlist that includes, but is not limited to, “Old Black Kettle,” “My Tennessee Mountain Home,” “In The Good Old Days (When Times Were Bad)” and “Smoky Mountain Memories.”) And of course, the song Dolly always called her favorite song she wrote— “Coat of Many Colors.” This song reminds us that Dolly was rich in love, family, faith, music and resilience. Money was never the currency Dolly was trading in, because she knew there was so much more to the world than money. To say Dolly Parton came from nothing erases one of the biggest themes in her music: no soul on this planet is nothing. Everything, like she once sang, is beautiful in its own way (that one will be on the playlist, too). “Coat of Many Colors” also teaches us something else — perhaps the most sacred truth we can mine from Dolly’s epic life: you have the power of transformation living inside you. You have the power to take any pain, ugliness, hurt or harm and make it into something else — something beautiful. That hurt those other kids put on Dolly when they made fun of her beloved coat, she lifted right off of herself by picking up her guitar and writing a song. In the process, she lifted a lot of hurt off of others, too. As an artist, Dolly was always my north star. She was the living embodiment of what it meant to be fully alive in the life you were given and the life you built. The template of how to dream and how to do. The ultimate teacher showing us that when you shine and I shine, we reflect off of one another, making each other brighter— just like the perfect little rhinestones we are on the magical coat of Dolly Parton.

CHOW

LITTLE BITES

Coorie: Tetherow’s New Fine Dining Destination

By Nicole Vulcan

By Donna Britt

here’s something fitting about a restaurant called Coorie, a Scottish word that means to nestle in or take shelter. Tetherow Resort’s new signature restaurant invites diners to do exactly that — settling into a warm, refined space with calming views of the golf course and the Cascades while enjoying a menu that takes fine dining seriously without taking itself too seriously. Formerly home to Solomon’s, the reimagined restaurant is both sophisticated and genuinely welcoming. Natural materials, mountain light and open sightlines create an atmosphere that feels polished but relaxed. The restaurant is relatively small, yet somehow spacious, and the views are lovely. Once the room filled up, it did get a bit loud, but the overall vibe remained cozy and inviting. It’s the sort of place that seems tailor-made for an anniversary, birthday or other celebratory dinner, or simply an upscale date night when you want to take your time and linger over a fine meal. At the helm is Executive Chef Tanner Hansen, a classically trained chef whose cooking is rooted in bold seasonal flavors and thoughtful ingredients, with global techniques influencing the menu. Whenever possible, Coorie sources from local farms, ranches, fisheries and purveyors. The result is a menu that feels indulgent, yes, but also surprisingly light, creative and seasonal. My dining partner and I arrived early on a recent Saturday evening, which gave us plenty of time to settle in with cocktails and take in the view. The cocktail menu ranges from a Marionberry Spritz made with vodka, marionberry rosemary cordial, Lillet Blanc and fresh lemon to a Snap Pea Gimlet featuring gin, house-made snap pea syrup and lemon juice. I went for the Red Rooster, made with blanco tequila and red bell pepper agave nectar. I admit I was skeptical about drinking a red bell pepper, but the cocktail was light, refreshing and incredibly flavorful. My dining partner stuck with his usual Old Fashioned, which was expertly made. The starters are where the kitchen’s creativity really begins to show. Options include a vibrant beet carpaccio with burrata, pistachio butter, stone fruit and granola, a Rainshadow Farms spring roll with baby gems, pickled vegetables and house peanut sauce, a panzanella salad, a grilled cauliflower elote, a Hudson Valley foie gras ganache and Hamachi Crudo.

Tetherow

The Hamachi was my choice and it was fabulous. Yellowtail was paired with red radish, jalapeno, orange supremes and tamari mignonette, along with marinated cucumbers, dill, cilantro and lime zest. It was a beautiful dish, bright and fresh with plenty of flavor without being heavy. My dining partner ordered the Beet Carpaccio — yes, beets — which was equally pretty and delicious. Both starters were light enough to leave us plenty of room for what came next. The entree menu includes several options beyond the Butcher’s Block selection of steaks. There is the Foragers Short Rib Pave with locally foraged mushrooms, Yukon Gold potato pave and Parmesan whip, as well as Local Foraged Herb Pesto Pappardelle, Local Mushroom Vol au Vent with English pea mascarpone mousse and crispy leeks, a wine braised duck with Bing cherry chutney and Pacific Northwest line-caught halibut with tropical salsa and avocado green goddess. Then there are the steaks, ranging from Japanese Wagyu New York Strip to Cedar River Farms Tomahawk Ribeye. There’s also a bavette with chimichurri and a Snake River Farms Filet served with braised bok choy, shishito peppers, radish kimchi and XO bordelaise. I opted for the short rib, which our server said was currently one of the most popular dishes and one of her favorites. The short rib was tender enough to fall apart at the slightest touch, and the mushrooms and potato were deeply flavorful and satisfying. My dining partner ordered the filet, which arrived cooked perfectly to the requested medium well. The bordelaise was velvety and packed with flavor, although just a touch saltier than I would have preferred. And then came dessert, or rather, desserts. The menu was too tempting

to choose just one, so we ordered three. The Vanilla Coconut Panna Cotta with Oregon marionberry and yuzu honey gelee was a natural choice for a coconut lover like myself. The panna cotta was creamy and smooth with plenty of coconut flavor. The Espresso Entremet was more elaborate, with layers of espresso custard, dark chocolate ganache and white chocolate mousse with caramel sauce and almond brittle. It was refined and multi-layered, offering a wonderful mix of textures and plenty of chocolate. Two thumbs up. But the Butterscotch Budino stole the show. Budino is an Italian pudding or custard, and this version was silky, thick and velvety, with Macallan 10-year butterscotch, dark chocolate and salted caramel. Rich with eggs and cream, it was absolutely luscious. Our server had promised it was amazing, and she was not wrong. Coorie is not an inexpensive night out. Cocktails start at $17, starters range from $16 to $25, and entrees run from $28 for the pappardelle to $145 for the Tomahawk Ribeye. The filet was $68, while the $46 short rib felt like a relative bargain. Desserts hover around $15. An extensive wine list includes glass pours and bottles spanning sparkling wines, rosés, whites, Pinot Noirs and reds from around the world. With the views, polished service and thoughtful food, Coorie delivers an experience that feels special without feeling stuffy. It will not be a cheap night, but it will be a beautiful one. And sometimes that’s exactly what you want from dinner. Coorie at Tetherow

61240 Skyline Ranch Road, Bend Wed-Sat 5-8pm tetherow.com IG:tetherowresort

t’s been open since the spring, but this September, Bend Tea and Art Lounge, offering people a place to sip tea and make art, is finally “opening” in grand style. TEAL is hosting its grand-opening ribbon-cutting ceremony on Saturday, Sept. 12 from 9am Bend TEAL to 9pm — the six-month anniversary of the opening. "What has surprised and delighted us most is how much our customers have shaped what TEAL has become. We started with the idea of a tea and art lounge, and it has grown into a place for so many different kinds of experiences," said owner Sarah Swoffer. The event includes free kids’ activities, raffles, samples, the unveiling of the space’s new fall menu and live music starting at 7pm. Bend Tea and Art Lounge

Open Sun 9am-6pm, Mon-Thu 9am-8pm, Fri-Sat 9am-9pm 1024 NW Bond St., Suite 101, Bend bendteal.com

Handel’s Ice Cream Coming to Redmond

n ice cream chain that set up shop in Bend in 2023 now appears to be coming to Redmond, too. A sign announcing that a Handel’s Homemade Ice Cream will soon be coming to the Hub City has been placed inside the commercial building at SW 5th and Forest Avenue in downtown Redmond. Handel’s, first opened in 1945 in Ohio, serves up fresh ice cream that it makes daily on site at each location. Handel’s did not respond to inquiries about an opening date by press time.

BITE OF THE WEEK: STRUT FRIES Out and about with food writer Donna Britt

Donna Britt

Located at the new Base Camp food cart lot, the Strut Fries at Southern Accent offer a little heat, a little crunch and a lot of yum. —Donna Britt rounds up her favorite bites from around town each week on our Instagram @bendsource. Follow us there to keep up with the latest!

27 VOLUME 30 ISSUE 36 / SEPTEMBER 3, 2026 / THE SOURCE

Sophisticated seasonal cooking, exceptional service in a refined yet relaxed atmosphere

Bend Tea and Art Lounge Grand Opening

SEPTEMBER 3, 2026 / BEND’S INDEPENDENT VOICE - NOW DAILY AT WWW.BENDSOURCE.COM 28

vs. Commerce SCREEN Art Or how Wile E. Coyote took on a tax credit By Jared Rasic 29

Foghorn Leghorn as a politician is pretty perfect.

the few movies this year that almost everyone agrees is fantastic. Another one of the best movies I’ve seen all year is at turns a quietly devastating and bleakly hilarious drama called “Our Hero, Balthazar.” Hauntingly co-written and directed by Oscar Boyson and co-written by Ricky Camilleri, the film follows Balthazar (a perfectly cast Jaeden Martell), a sociopathic rich kid who makes online content of himself histrionically crying over school shootings or whatever tragic horror is currently trending. When he meets a passionate activist girl he wants to impress, he connects with Solomon (Asa Butterfield, completely reinvented here), a troubled young man threatening to carry out a school shooting. Balthazar heads from NYC to Texas to meet Solomon to try and convince him not to pull the trigger. He does this not because he suddenly cares about human life, but strictly to impress the girl and farm for clicks. “Our Hero, Balthazar” packs more thematic depth and more humanist insight in its 96-minute runtime than most studio movies can summon in three hours. Boyson and Camilleri fearlessly take on the culture wars, masculine identity, generational racism, education, poverty and about a dozen other hot-button issues. Incredibly, they do so with a pitch-black humor, nail-biting intensity and compassionate grace. This is the only movie I can imagine that could pull off a character who owns a Pride flag displayed next to Nazi paraphernalia and a “Don’t Tread on Me” flag, making it feel entirely authentic, heartbreaking and blisteringly

funny all at once. I’ve never seen such a delicate tightrope walk from a film quite like this. While the subject matter is obviously not going to be for everyone, viewers who venture into this one with an open mind will find a lot of their judgements challenged and recontextualized. The film hasn’t had a large theatrical release; “Our Hero, Balthazar” is available to rent now on Letterboxd’s video store and is worth your time. It’s an unforgettable piece of filmmaking. Also apparently being misunderstood by its studio is “The Uprising,” a film centered on a Ploughman leading a rebellion against King Richard II. For months, the movie has been advertised as a gritty, 14th-Century historical war drama starring Andrew Garfield. Then last week, the trailers tacked on “The Rise of Robin Hood” as a subtitle and now no one knows what the hell is happening. Is Andrew Garfield Robin Hood? Does a studio really think audiences won’t go see a movie unless it’s attached to existing IP? Do we even care? For me, Paul Greengrass as writer/director has me in the seat, Robin Hood or not. Fortunately, more exciting options are coming out this fall that I’m hoping find their audience. Specifically, Portland animation studio Laika’s new stop-motion animated dark fantasy, “Wildwood,” based on the lovely novel by The Decemberists’ Colin Meloy. The trailers look transportive and breathtaking. Because Laika doesn’t miss, keep your plans open for when the film releases on Oct. 23. They should be the biggest animation studio in the world just based on “Coraline” alone. Let’s help them get there. What are you looking forward to catching this fall? Coyote Vs. Acme

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VOLUME 30 ISSUE 36 / SEPTEMBER 3, 2026 / THE SOURCE

o far, our fall movie season has delivered a few genuine surprises in terms of quality, with even more promising releases looming on the horizon. Usually at this point in the year, theatrical releases are a hodgepodge of quality, as studios continue to prove they rarely know how to market their own movies, let alone understand the creative caliber of what is sitting on their shelves. Two of the best movies I’ve seen all year have had very different paths to our eyeballs — none more high-profile than the new Looney Tunes film, “Coyote vs. Acme.” Here’s a truly great concept: Wile E. Coyote is finally tired of every single trap he purchases from Acme not failing to capture the Road Runner. Worse, they seriously injure him at every turn. From faulty TNT to exploding rocket shoes, the Coyote decides he’s done with Acme taking his money and selling him garbage. He’s starving and the Road Runner is no closer to getting in his belly. So, Wile E. Coyote hires a lazy, down-on-his-luck lawyer (played by the always entertaining Will Forte) to sue Acme for all damages. With perfectly timed appearances by Daffy Duck, Bugs Bunny, Porky Pig and just about every other classic Looney Tune you can think of, it’s a high-concept family caper that blends live-action and animation so beautifully that I was instantly swept back into the breathless wonder of seeing “Who Framed Roger Rabbit” for the first time. From the film’s boundless energy and constantly clever sight gags to the timely message about late-stage capitalism and corporate untouchability, “Coyote vs. Acme” proves that the Looney Tunes can be as relevant in 2026 as ever. But we almost didn’t get to see it. Warner Bros. Discovery watched an early cut of the film and just didn’t get it. They had no idea they were sitting on a modern animated classic. So, along with the Warner Bros movies, “Batgirl” and “Scoob! Holiday Haunt,” the executive suits decided to shelve the film for a $30 million tax write-off. We probably never would have seen it, but a much smaller distributor, Ketchup Entertainment, paid Warner a cool $50 million for the rights and released it in theaters last weekend. The irony is palpable. While it might not become a massive box office smash, the film boasts a 96% critic score and a 94% audience score on Rotten Tomatoes, making it one of

Ketchup Entertainment

OUTSIDE

A business consultant and former bike shop employee shares a personality-type crib sheet for meeting customers as they are By Peter Madsen

The Performer The easiest to spot is the performer — they demand attention. The door opens and woosh! I’m here and I brought the party with me. They’re loud. They’re demonstrative with their hands. They hug. They ignore personal space boundaries. They talk loudly. They tell stories. Bagno-Dill concedes half of her personality falls into this category. But that’s what makes us fun and lovable. We need performers in the world because we see the best in everything. One thing that’s important to mention is emotional maturity — that’s the difference maker. Bagno-Dill says an immature performer gossips. They’re overly dramatic and they can’t be counted on. Flaky. Performers are fun to sell to because they’re all “yes” so long as you make the experience fun. Don’t give them all the details on how the bike is made, its weight, the materials or the history of the company. They don’t care about any of that. They care about riding with their friends, pulling a trailer that has a beer cooler. They love the fun aspect of bikes, so focus on that. They want to be popular, they want to do the “right thing,” but they also want to have positive influence over people. They love getting an “attaboy.”

The Producer The bottom line is tantamount for the producer, who tends to talk in shorter sentences. They’ll ask how much the bike costs and they just need enough information to make the decision. The producer is all about function. Will it do the job? Someone who wants to lose weight is a producer. In that case, recommend toe cages so their feet won’t slip and they’ll burn more calories. Racers fit into this category, too. They’re very competitive, they have races goals — the bottom line. They’re easy to sell to if you gain their trust.

The Arranger The two previous types, performer and producer, are two high-energy extroverted types. They have an intensity. The arranger is the first of two introverted types; they’re soft-spoken. They want all the insights and intricacies. They do want to know how the bike is made and how that benefits them. They will ask tons of questions because they strive toward the most-perfect decision. They keep spreadsheets because that’s what arrangers do before big purchases. They’re also a great referral because they can tell friends all the reasons why they should buy from any particular shop. They don’t wear flashy clothes but they’re always well-coiffed. They’re detail-oriented people. They work in finance, engineering or the medical industry. It’s a longer sale with an arranger, but it’s a solid sale because they’ll spend more money on quality.

Ga lle ian dr by A ns

These folks are hard to spot because they’re the chameleons in the group. Except, they tend to look more comfortable in their clothes, even dressed up. They’ll let out a couple buttons on their button-down shirt. Roll up the sleeves. Hair’s a little messy. They look for comfort. You’re going to sell based on that word. Women — we like softer seats. We like being able to hook a bag on a rack and put stuff in it. Those comforts are important. They can also be non-committal. They’ll want to sleep on it. When selling to couples, realize that couples tend to be opposites. So don’t ignore the quiet one because the quiet one usually has the most weight in the decision-making. Bagno-Dill consults real estate agents all the time. The harmonizer, she explains, is the person an agent has taken to see 30 houses. They may have no intention of buying a house; they just like being with you, the agent. And the agents laugh because they’ve all had one. Harmonizers can be irritating — at work, in relationships and as customers. Yet, the harmonizer can be your best friend, and producers tend to marry harmonizers, Bagno-Dill says. Their strengths and weaknesses cover for each other. Harmonizers are the kindest of the four personality types.

The Harmonizer

tr a tio

hat bike shop personality type — or, better put, types — are you? I was a little embarrassed when I learned mine. After chatting with former bike shop employee and local business consult Jody Bagno-Dill, I realized that I’m a Performer with — mercifully — a good dose of Producer traits. Let me explain. I’ve long been the guy who walks into a bike shop, hopes the employees not only laugh at my jokes but appreciate my bike goals. Serious bike goals. Bagno-Dill, who also identifies as a Performer/Producer, says four personality types, which also include the Arranger and Harmonizer, round out the schema. We’re often a solid mix of two types, yet we’re a little bit of all four, as well. In 2007, Bagno-Dill co-founded Jazz Business Consulting with her husband and business partner. She likens a sales team to a practiced yet improvise-ready ensemble. Customers who walk in the door with varying needs and interests are the bit players, sitting in for one-off sessions. Bagno-Dill developed her four customer personality types from the dynamics laid out by self-help author Florence Littauer. Many of her books articulate a nuanced personality system. These books are insightful, Bagno-Dill said, but very complex. In speaking with the Source, Bagno-Dill said she wanted to provide an easy-to-learn system for businesses and sales folks to quickly and effectively create tailormade interactions. (She also encourages folks to take Jazz’s free online Vibe Assessment, a tool that helps organizations highlight team strengths and weaknesses.) “You can pick up a couple easy clues from any given customer and immediately know how to connect with them, build trust and reduce misunderstandings,” Bagno-Dill said. Not for nothing, Pine Mountain Sports, which has won Best Bike Shop in the Source’s Best of Central Oregon readers’ poll for three consecutive years, puts Bagno-Dill’s techniques to work with every customer interaction they have, owner Rafe Lehner told the Source. Teeing up any customer type with meaningful service begins with a straightforward question: What are your goals? At right, I’ve condensed Bagno-Dill’s words and insights into four helpful personality descriptions.

Ill us

SEPTEMBER 3, 2026 / BEND’S INDEPENDENT VOICE - NOW DAILY AT WWW.BENDSOURCE.COM

Four People Walk into a Bike Shop

GO HERE By Peter Madsen

Welcoming Week Celebrates Immigrants, Refugees and Undocumented Central Oregonians

or those who complain that Bend is too vanilla, the City of Bend’s Welcoming Week offers a window into its diverse communities. Now in its ninth year, Welcoming Week showcases the many stripes of Central Oregonians, particularly those who are immigrants, refugees and undocumented residents. Beginning Sept. 10 through Sept. 19, Welcoming Week’s theme is “Stories We Share: The Courage to Connect.” The goal is to foster connection and belonging for these communities, according to the City. The series of events will pop up throughout Bend, including functions at the Latino Community Association’s center, the Deschutes Central Library and The Commons Cafe & Taproom. Those who want to join Welcoming Week, but might worry about committing faux-pas, could begin with the “Welcoming Week Skill Lab: Intervene, Include, Commit,” hosted by LCA and presented by Embrace Bend on Sept. 8. It’s a skill-building laboratory on how to bone up on practical support roles, inclusive practices and leave with a clear participation plan, according to organizers. On Sept. 10, LCA and other local Welcoming Week participating organizations will reveal a year-round Welcoming Program and a night market showcasing immigrant and refugee food vendors at the LCA center. The following day, Shararah Films will host “Stories of Belonging: Arab, Muslim & South Asian,” a short film screening and community conversation at the Deschutes Central Library. Asian, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander communities in Central Oregon will get some shine during “Pathways and Connection: Exploration of Business Council” on Sept. 12. Presented by APIC, a project launched by Embrace Bend in 2022 that focused on growing spaces for these communities,

the first “Pathways” installment is a facilitated discussion geared toward entrepreneurs. A cultural games session will round out the program as a second installment. “Advocacy through Art,” hosted by Almodorada coffee shop downtown on Sept. 16, will offer a screen-printing workshop that emphasizes making art that advocates our collective humanity. Benditas will host “SAL Bend!,” a celebration of art, world music and cuisine, at The Commons Cafe & Taproom on Sept. 18. Benditas is a nonprofit that fosters community among Central Oregon’s myriad Spanish speakers. “Stories We Share,” an intergenerational celebration of stories, music, cuisines and traditions, will cap off Welcoming Week at the Hanai Center on Sept. 19. Welcoming Week is an annual campaign that was founded in 2012 by Welcoming America and its member network. Last year, more than 2,000 Welcoming Week events were held globally across eight countries and all U.S. states, including Washington, D.C., according to the nonprofit, with 52 communities issuing welcoming proclamations. The City of Bend became a partnering Welcoming City in 2017, as advocated by LCA. Becoming a member city means committing to equity and inclusion and working to create full belonging and civic participation, which precipitates prosperity, according to LCA.

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SMOKE SIGNALS Return of the 10 mg THC Gummy By Josh Jardine

t-V Plane olumes-

Un sp

regon State Sen. Lisa Reynolds (D-Portland/Washington County) has announced plans to reintroduce her failed 2026 legislation next year that would have reduced the amount of THC in cannabis edibles. While portions of what she proposes are ideas worthy of support, it has elements of personal bias and drug war hysteria. Per the Oregon Capital Chronicle, Reynolds “...is seeking to improve cannabis prevention education in schools, cap individual edibles at 10 milligrams of THC and require manufacturers provide more warning labels on their products.” No one is against improving cannabis prevention in our schools. Children should not use cannabis sh products, and truthful, scila ence-based arguments supporting this should be implemented. (The most advanced BS detector ever is a child.) But prior efforts such as the DARE , or Drug Addiction Resistance Education, were failures due in part to exaggerated claims and lies about drugs, especially cannabis. The additional warning labels would potentially warn of cannabis use, “... contributing to worse mental health outcomes.” And new research has estimated that “...teens using cannabis are at 11 times higher risk of developing a psychotic disorder compared to teens not using cannabis.” If labels help that from happening, great. We already warn pregnant women not to use cannabis, so let’s do this, too. The 10 mg limit is trickier. The current limit of THC per package of any type of edible is 100 mg, with contents scored or divided into 10 individual servings of 10 mg each. (While not considered edibles, some THC tinctures and syrups can have up to 1000 mg per package, and are not segmented into 10 mg serving portions. They are FAFO in a liquid form.) That wasn’t always the case. In April of 2022, the THC limit per package of edibles was 50 mg, but the industry successfully lobbied for a change to 100 mg, then the limits in both Washington and Colorado. Reynolds cites a change in the law in Washington state, which according to Dr. Julia Dilley, a Multnomah County epidemiologist, resulted in “75% fewer hospitalizations and half as many poisonings reported to poison centers.” As the Chronicle writes …” In 2023, children 5 and younger made up one-third

of all cannabis-related cases reported to the Oregon Poison Center.” (And who got their edibles for an irresponsible and careless adult, not a dispensary.) The cannabis industry defeated the prior incarnation of the bill arguing it would “...create more plastic waste having to wrap each edible individually and that businesses wouldn’t have the money to buy machinery used to wrap individual edibles. Additionally, lobbyists said the bill would cost the state millions in tax revenue because it would eliminate popular marijuana products.” No argument on packaging waste and the expenses imposed upon cannabis businesses, already struggling with arguably overly strict regulations and 280e, but there are some questions about the tax revenue reduction. About that bias: Reynolds is not a proponent for non-medical cannabis use. She supported SCR202 earlier this year, which “Whereas psychoactive drugs such as marijuana, fentanyl, heroin, methamphetamine and cocaine present serious risks to those who use them and can lead to…permanent IQ loss..and even to death”...urge(s) Oregonians to avoid the use of psychoactive drugs from any source except as needed for legitimate medical purposes.” You lost me at equating cannabis with meth, and I’m not alone in feeling that advocating for more government control over bodily autonomy by a government agency is not…great. Reynolds also has said that, “...she believes her brother’s habitual marijuana use in the ‘70s contributed to his severe mental health problems as an adult and his regular admission into psychiatric hospitals.” Which is sad and deserves our compassion, but is simply not the outcome for the vast majority of cannabis users. That isn’t science, it’s family trauma. A suitable outcome for everyone could involve state cannabis tax credits to pay for businesses to invest in new required packaging equipment, modifying edible taxes so consumers aren’t taking a hit on having to now buy 10 times as many packages. And use cannabis tax revenue to fund a “Secure Your Stash Safe” giveaway and awareness campaign, because adults securing their edibles like a loaded weapon hasn’t caught on yet.

33 VOLUME 30 ISSUE 36 / SEPTEMBER 3, 2026 / THE SOURCE

Failed Oregon legislation may be back again this year

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COLUMN

WELLNESS

AWAKENING YOUR INNER HERO A COLUMN TO HELP LOCALS LIVE A KINDER AND MORE COURAGEOUS LIFE By Burt Gershater

35 VOLUME 30 ISSUE 36 / SEPTEMBER 3, 2026 / THE SOURCE

You, Me, Lizards and Mosquitoes are All Important A case for a daily state of awe

imagine that after reading the title, you might predict that this month’s Inner Heroes message is all about how we are ALL important. That is obviously the point of today’s message. You are important. I am important. So are lizards and mosquitos. Let’s start with the dictionary definition of important. Important means: of high value, significant, critical, influential. Clearly something or someone important makes a difference. Then why are lizards and mosquitos important? Yesterday, Lyza, our dear granddaughter, brought us a lizard at the same time I was trying to think of a title for this month’s message. One of my main interests in life is helping us see our own importance. To know and see our own impact on our corner of the world. At work, with our friends, with our spouses, children, at the gym, wherever we go! So, when this stunning little blue lizard shined in my eyes, it hit me to ponder, “Are lizards important?” And then, “How about mosquitos?” I figured if they are, then maybe you and I have a good chance of entering into this sweet circle of being important. I did my research. Lizards provide food for birds, snakes and small mammals. They stop insect overpopulation and thus we need to use less toxic chemical sprays. Not only are lizards important, they are essential to a healthy environment. How about mosquitos, the little bugs that most of us slap, trap and spray? We need these little buggers, too. They feed our hungry fish, frogs, birds, bats and, of course, our shiny lizards. They also pollinate many plants. Are they a nuisance to us? Of course. And they are essential to life on Earth. I think that I’ve made my first point: when we see anything, we are seeing an important piece of this amazingly complex world. Trees, flowers, bees, cows, stars, air…this list of what keeps us going day after day is far beyond our ability to fathom. We can, and should be in a state of awe and gratitude every day. At least once a day, to remind us how interdependent and blessed we are. My dear wife, Wendy, and I do our best to enter this state of awe daily. It’s been a good practice for us.

Are you and I important? You know the answer. I know there are over 8 billion of us on our planet. You and I are only teeny-weeny numbers in the big picture but, maybe not. Let me tell you the favorite “number” story of my entire life. Nineteen years ago a young rabbi, Dovie Shapiro, knocked on my office door in Flagstaff, Arizona. He had recently moved to town with his wife, Chaya, and their little baby boy. He had a list of Jewish folks in the area and was knocking on doors to meet us. Knock, Knock. “Hi, I’m Rabbi Dovie Shapiro. Can I come in?” I wasn’t remotely expecting a Rabbi to knock on my office door. “Sure, come on in,” I answered hesitantly. We chatted, told a few stories, then I came up with a cool question that changed both our lives to this very day. In the most important prayer in our faith, the last line is: …the L-rd is One. -From the Shema I asked the Rabbi if that was because, as I had learned in my college religion class, that Jews were the first monotheistic, not polytheistic, faith and we figured out there is only One? The Rabbi paused and answered, “That’s part of it. The deeper meaning is there is nothing but One. There is only One.” Every one and every thing are connected. We are ALL connected. You, me, the lizards, the mosquitoes, trees and bees… I got high. Actually, connected. I just heard the Truth that was planted deep inside of me from birth. It was my time to try to live it day-to-day, for the rest of my life. I want us ALL to feel and live this connected reality. It takes a lot of work. Every ounce of work gets an immeasurable return. Rabbi Dovie and I are best friends to this day. We are ALL important. - Burt Gershater is a counselor, leadership trainer, speaker and writer. He can be reached at burt@burtgershater.com

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Situated on over half an acre in Bend, this custom 2,900 sq ft home features 100+ feet of Deschutes River frontage with views. Less than 15 minutes from the Old Mill and Downtown Bend, the property offers a private primary suite, gourmet kitchen, and guest accommodations for visitors, multi-gen living, and office space. The open floor plan with the main living areas opens directly to a large river-view deck. The home features hardwood floors, custom cabinetry, built-ins, custom entryway, roomy butler pantry, and abundant storageincluding 1,150+ sq ft across 2 finished, heated two-car garages. Newly installed HVAC system. Direct backyard access to the Deschutes River for fishing and paddling, with easy access to Mt. Bachelor and the Redmond Airport. Schedule your private showing today to experience this rare Southwest Bend riverfront opportunity.

$1,699,000

4 BEDS, 4 BATHS 4 CAR HEATED GARAGES 2,896 SQFT ON 0.63 ACRES 100+ FEET OF DESCHUTES RIVER FRONTAGE Digitally Altered

Frank Wood

#201239595 frank@avenirrealtygroup.com 541-788-1095 473 W. Hood Ave #102, Sisters, OR, 97759 AvenirRealtyGroup.com/agents/frank-martin-wood Digitally Altered

SCHEDULE YOUR PRIVATE SHOWING TODAY

TAKE ME HOME

By Nathan Powers Engel Volkers Bend

What Does $500,000 Buy You in Central Oregon

Bend: Buy Location $399 per square foot | $500K ≈ 1,253 sq. ft. Bend offers the region’s largest mix of restaurants, shopping, entertainment, employment and recreation. But its popularity comes at a premium. At $399 per square foot, $500,000 represents roughly 1,253 square feet. Buyers may need to compromise on size, condition or location to stay within budget. The trade-off: less house, but more amenities. Redmond: Buy More Room $324 per square foot | $500K ≈ 1,543 sq. ft. Redmond offers more space for the same money while maintaining easy access to Central Oregon’s outdoor recreation. Its growing downtown, airport access and proximity to Bend make it an increasingly popular alternative for buyers looking for value. The trade-off: more house, with a little more distance from Bend. Sisters: Buy Character $403 per square foot | $500K ≈ 1,241 sq. ft. Sisters commands one of the highest price-per-square-foot figures in the region. But buyers aren’t

necessarily paying for square footage. They’re paying for a distinctive mountain-town atmosphere, Western character, community events and proximity to the Cascades. The trade-off: less space, but a lifestyle that’s difficult to replicate. Prineville: Buy Space $287 per square foot | $500K ≈ 1,742 sq. ft. Prineville offers some of the most square footage for the money. It provides a quieter, small-town lifestyle with plenty of room to spread out. The trade-off: more space, but fewer of Bend’s amenities. La Pine: Buy the Outdoors $287 per square foot | $500K ≈ 1,742 sq. ft. La Pine offers similar value to Prineville, with the added appeal of easy access to the Cascade Lakes, Newberry National Volcanic Monument and extensive outdoor recreation. For buyers who prioritize space and the outdoors, it’s an appealing option. The trade-off: rural living and a longer trip to Bend. Sunriver: Buy the Experience $432 per square foot | $500K ≈ 1,157 sq. ft. Sunriver has the highest price per square foot, but its value extends beyond the home itself. Miles of paved paths, recreational amenities, golf and its resort-oriented atmosphere make the community unique. The trade-off: the least square footage, but a built-in recreational lifestyle.

HOME PRICE ROUNDUP << LOW

19717 SW Mount Bachelor Drive UNIT 248, Bend 2 bed, 2 bath, 840 square feet Built in 1981 $550,000 Listed by Colleen Peterson of Engel & Völkers Bend | Sisters

MID >>

56556 Caldera Springs Court Lot #40, Bend 3 bed, 4 bath, 1,809 square feet, .25 acres lot Built in 2009 $999,900 Listed by Shannon McNeil and Michelle Rea of Engel & Völkers Bend | Sisters

<< HIGH

62677 NW Mehama Court, Bend 7 bed, 4 bath, 3,222 square feet, .18 acres lot Built in 2020 $1,490,000 Listed by Natalie Nolte of Engel & Völkers Bend | Sisters

VOLUME 30 ISSUE 36 / SEPTEMBER 3, 2026 / THE SOURCE

f you have $500,000 to spend on a home in Central Oregon, the biggest question may not be whether you can afford to live here. It may be where you want to live. The same $500,000 budget can buy dramatically different properties—and lifestyles—depending on which community you choose.

ASTROLOGY By Rob Brezsny

SUNRIVER

OKTOBERFEST SEPTEMBER 26

RACE 5 K

1 0K

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): I am asking you

to give yourself slack in situations where you sometimes treat yourself carelessly or unkindly. Instead of tightening, loosen. Instead of cornering yourself, offer an escape hatch. Ask: “What if I give myself 20% more mercy, 20% more time, or 20% less pressure?” Maybe you'll get an extension on a deadline or allow yourself to be a learner instead of an expert. Rather than calling yourself a failure because you're less than perfect, you'll decide, "It's good enough for now." As you slip away from the traps you set for yourself, you’ll teach your nervous system a fresh truth: You can be gentle with yourself but still be responsible.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23Nov. 21): Scorpio, you

rarely need to be lighter and breezier. Your assignment is almost always to delve deeper and explore further. This is true now even more than usual. Other people might shiver and cower in the face of your intensity, but I celebrate it because it drives you to excavate the rich, messy truths and complicated feelings that really shouldn't stay hidden. Regard this horoscope as your authorization to wield your emotional X-ray vision with precision, and to trust that the treasures you seek are often buried in places that scare others away.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): In classical music, composers often develop a simple motif into a complex symphony. A short sequence of notes becomes the foundation for an entire composition. A key passage gets rearranged and elaborated in multiple ways. You will have a comparable opportunity in the coming weeks, Sagittarius: a seed of potential that seems modest at first could expand into more substantial riches if you cultivate it patiently. Your visionary aplomb and optimism can transform a core cell into a full orchestration. CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): You seem to be wandering in a frontier for which there are no maps. You're hovering in liminal zones, between worlds. So for now, I guess you will have to steer without your usual guidance. That’s a good thing! What I can do is name the gifts that are likely to come your way as you explore the unknown: 1) turbo-charged intuitions about your best possible future; 2) a talent for spotting surprising connections you didn’t even know you were looking for; and 3) a provocative unpredictability that magnetizes allies who can help tease out and illuminate your hidden and buried desires.

11AM START AT THE VILLAGE AT SUNRIVER

R B R EW