July '26 Redmond Business News

BUSINESS

JULY 2026

PLATINUM

BRONZE

DIRECTOR'S MESSAGE

July 2026 ONE BUSY MONTH - JULY

We hope you all had a chance to be a part of the 250th Celebration of our Nation’s independence. What an amazing start to the month. The City of Redmond got the celebration started with a spectacular Community Block Party on Friday, July 3rd. Thousands of people gathered at Centennial Park for the fun and festivities. There were vendors of all kinds, speeches by City officials, live music and free hot dogs! Downtown was bustling with First Friday and Redmond never looked more alive.

Saturday was the big parade, and the community showed in droves. We had 91 official entries for the parade, with many of those entries having numerous vehicles and participants. This year the parade started off with the singing of the national anthem at the Redmond Arch and community photo. The parade lasted an hour an half.

Of course, with Redmond being Flag City USA, nearly 1600 flags were on display throughout the city. The Redmond Chamber is responsible for gathering support to put the flags up at 6am and to take them down at 4pm. In all, it takes about 30 people for both shifts.

All of us here at the Chamber love the 4th of July, and to me, Redmond is the epitome of Americana, and this year with the success of the Community Block Party, Parade and Flag lined streets and evening fireworks

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

BRADY VELIKONIA

BRANDI EBNER

CHAMBER STAFF

Eric Sande Executive Director

there couldn’t be a more perfect salute to our Nations Birthday. Happy Birthday America.

July continues with many great events and activities, all month long including two Music on the Green Concerts and the amazing Redmond Brewfest and Night Glow as part of the Balloons Over Bend event on Saturday, July 26th. The Brewfest and Night Glow is one of the Chamber’s largest fundraisers, and as a Non-Profit, the support and success of these events allow us to be to bring all these great events to support and celebrate the community. It is so important to bring the community together, to build the sense of place and community, which keeps us united. The Redmond Chamber is proud to do our part to make Redmond the best it can be.

Leadership Redmond

With this being July, it is also time to get busy rounding up the next class of Leadership Redmond. This incredible program introduces participants to the various leaders and organizations within our community and gives them a broader understanding of the work done every day to make Redmond function smoothly. The class is a commitment of one day a month for nine months, held on the third Thursday starting in September and running through May. The Leadership Redmond program

DUSTIN HEWITT WINDERMERE REALTY TRUST PAST PRESIDENT LAURA GARCIA MAZATLAN MEXICAN RESTAURANT

MAARTY LEUNEN SUMMIT BANK

SEAN NEARY FITCH & NEARY PC

Lacie Linek Events Director

is a partnership between the Redmond Executive Association and the Redmond Chamber of Commerce & CVB. If you would like to find out more about how you can help support or participate in the Leadership Redmond program, please call me at 541-923-5191. Applications are available at the Chamber, or by going online at www.visitredmondoregon.com .

Redmond Chamber Golf Tournament

It’s time to sign up for Redmond’s best loved golf tournament coming August 21. With your participation in the 37th Annual Redmond Chamber Golf Tournament, you are helping to support Redmond Chamber and the many events the Chamber offers FREE to the community. We will be returning to the spectacular Juniper Golf Course, and it is sure to be another spectacular event. The cost is just $125 per person or $500 per team, and we will feed you and keep the beverages flowing as you play this award-winning course. Registration and breakfast will start at 7:00 am and there will be a shotgun start at 8:00 am sharp, rain or shine. If you would like to promote your business to some of Central Oregon’s premier (and maybe craziest) players, I encourage you to contact Lacie here at the Chamber to learn more about sponsorship opportunities. We are also looking for Sponsors as well as corporate, hole, or tee sponsorships. Your sponsorship

RANDY GRAVES REDMOND SENIOR CENTER

SUSAN BAKER DESCHUTES COUNTY SOLID WASTE

GLORIA RICE HIGH DESERT FLORALS

JUSTY HANEY JUSTY'S SPECIALTY FOODS & CATERING

SARAH TROUT H. WILDE CONSULTING

will promote your business, while helping us meet our goals and allow us to continue to offer our Free community programs.

From all of us at the Redmond Chamber of Commerce, have a safe and happy July!

LAUREN LEBIEN HOSPICE OF REDMOND

JOHN GREGORY SUMMIT CLEANING AND RESTORATION

JACKSON HARBOLT CAPSTONE ACCOUNTING & TAX

BRIAN MYERS STATE FARM INSURANCE

Connor Cubic Marketing Director Evelina Davidson Membership/Finance Director

WELCOME NEW MEMBERS

FR Detailing

Fabio Jimenez

2590 NW Eby Court, Terrebonne, OR 97760 541-948-9563

www.541frdetailing.com

Ocean's Edge

Jason Hunter

334 NE Irving Avenue, Suite 102, Bend OR 97701, US 541-382-1456 www.oceansedge.com

Oregon Air National Guard

Marc Hawthorne

211 Arnold Avenue, Klamath Falls OR 97603, US 541-613-4542

Kook'i

Heather Ward

235 SW 6th St, Redmond OR 97756, US 3184502417

www.kookicompany.com

By: Evelina Davidson

MEMBERSHIP update

Greetings To All Of Our Amazing Members!

Summer is creeping around the corner and will be in full swing before we know it. It is hard to believe that we will be halfway through the year by the end of this month… time sure does fly! June is full of graduation celebrations, prom nights, children starting their much-awaited summer breaks, and families planning their vacations. It’s easy to get wrapped up in the excitement and hustle of summer, but I hope that we all take a moment or two to slow down and take a break from our busy schedules to enjoy an evening summer breeze or a beautiful Central Oregon sunset every once in a while.

This month, I would like to talk about networking…something most of us are familiar with but may not know the full benefits of. The Redmond Chamber of Commerce hosts several networking events every month that provide great opportunities for businesses to meet and engage with other local professionals in the community. Do you know what they all are? Most of you do, but for those who are new to the Redmond Chamber of Commerce or need a refresher, here are all of our networking functions that are available to our members each month:

- Coffee Clatter (Every Friday – 8:30 AM To 9:30 AM)

- Business After Hours (Every 2nd Tuesday – 4:30 PM To 6:00 PM)

- Lunch & Learn (Every Last Tuesday – 11:30 AM To 1:00 PM)

- Ribbon Cuttings

These networking events can play a crucial role in helping a business grow and succeed, but despite the simple fact that networking is a fun way to be social, get to know your community better, and to have fun while promoting your business, I would like to touch on a few reasons how and why networking can be such an important part of growing a business.

Build Business Relationships: Connect with other professionals, potential clients, suppliers, and industry experts. Build relationships and establish a network of contacts that can lead to valuable partnerships, collaborations, and referrals.

Generate Leads: Attract like-minded individuals who are interested in forming business relationships or seeking solutions. By actively engaging in conversations and showcasing your products or services, you can generate leads and potential customers.

Share Knowledge & Learn: Share and learn from your own and other’s experiences, knowledge and expertise. Gain new insight from feature speakers, panel discussions and workshops that cover industry trends, best practices, and emerging technologies.

Access New Opportunities: Connect with a diverse group of professionals and uncover new opportunities for business expansion, joint ventures, collaborations, or even funding. Increase the likelihood of discovering fresh perspectives and untapped opportunities from people and businesses of different backgrounds and industries.

Build Brand Awareness: Showcase your brand and expertise. By effectively conveying your business’s value proposition and unique selling points, you can raise awareness about your products or services among potential clients, partners, and influencers.

Gain Industry Insights: Engage in discussions with industry leaders and experts. These interactions can provide valuable insights into market trends, customer preferences, and industry challenges, helping you refine your business strategies and stay ahead of the competition.

Enhance Professional Development: Improve your professional skills, such as public speaking, interpersonal communication, and negotiation. By actively engaging in conversations and presentations, you can enhance your abilities and build confidence, which can positively impact your business interactions.

Receive Feedback & Validation: Receive feedback on your business ideas, products, or services from experienced professionals. Constructive criticism and validation from industry peers can help you refine your offerings, identify areas for improvement, and validate your business strategies.

Networking events sometimes don’t get the recognition that they deserve, but as we all can see, actively participating in such events offers businesses a multitude of benefits. I, of course, am a little biased and will shamelessly say, that the Redmond Chamber of Commerce just so happens to do a stellar job of hosting such networking opportunities for its members. So come join us for the next Coffee Clatter, Business After Hours, Lunch & Learn or Ribbon Cutting and see how you can tap into Redmond’s business community to promote growth and success of your business. Visit our website, Facebook page or contact us at the office for more information on dates, times and locations of our fabulous networking events. Until next month, enjoy the sun, breathe in the summer air and do what you love.

Evelina Davidson Membership & Finance Director

Redmond Chamber of Commerce & CVB

Redmond Brewfest Is One of Summer’s Best Nights Out

Some events end up becoming part of the season, and Redmond Brewfest is one of them. It is not just another thing to do on the calendar. It is one of those summer nights people plan around because it brings together so much of what makes Redmond fun: local beer, live music, a relaxed crowd, food, vendors, and an evening atmosphere that feels easy and worth lingering in.

This year’s Redmond Brewfest and Night Glow takes place Saturday, July 25, from 5:00 to 10:00 PM at American Legion Park, and it is shaping up to be another strong night for craft beer fans and casual attendees alike. Whether you come for the breweries, the music, the food, or the simple fact that it is a great excuse to be outside with friends on a summer evening, there is a reason this event keeps drawing people back.

For a lot of attendees, the beer lineup is where the excitement starts. So far, participating brewers and cider makers include Wild Ride, Tumalo Cider, Worthy Brewing, Three Creeks Brewery, Avid Cider, Endless Orchard Cider, Van Henion Brewing, Boneyard Brewing, and Bend Cider Co. That is already a solid mix of names that craft beverage fans across Central Oregon know well. It gives people the chance to revisit longtime favorites, try something new, and enjoy a range of styles in one place.

That is part of what makes Brewfest appealing. It works for people who really know their beer, and it also works for people who just want to sample something local and have a fun night out. You do not need to show up with a refined palate or a list of tasting notes. You can come curious, try a few pours, compare favorites with friends, and enjoy the fact that some of the region’s best breweries and cider makers are gathered in one park for the evening.

Still, Redmond Brewfest has never been just about what is in the cup. The event works because it has a broader energy to it. It brings together different parts of the community in a way that feels natural. Beer lovers come for the tasting experience. Families come for the atmosphere. Friends come to socialize. Visitors get a taste of what summer in Redmond feels like. Local vendors add to the energy of the night, and live music keeps the whole thing moving.

That matters, because the best community events are not overly complicated. They give people a reason to show up and then let the atmosphere do the rest. Brewfest has that balance. You can spend part of the evening trying brews, then grab food, listen to music, run into people you know, and settle into the kind of crowd that feels lively without feeling chaotic. It has room for longtime Brewfest regulars and people attending for the first time.

Then there is the piece that makes the event feel especially memorable: the Night Glow balloon show.

That part of the evening changes the mood in the best way. What starts as a fun summer beer event turns into something a little more visual, a little more atmospheric, and a little more special. As the sun goes down and the balloons light up, the event takes on a different kind of energy. It gives people a moment to pause, look up, and enjoy something that feels distinctly tied to summer in Central Oregon.

That combination is why Brewfest continues to stand out. It is not only a tasting event, and it is not only a community festival. It lands somewhere in the middle, which is exactly what makes it work. It is local without feeling small. It is lively without feeling overdone. It is family-friendly while still giving beer lovers plenty to look forward to. That kind of range is hard to build, but when it comes together, it creates the kind of event people genuinely want to attend.

If you are looking for a reason to gather friends, spend time outside, and enjoy a well-loved Redmond tradition, this is it. Admission is free, and for those planning to take part in the Brewfest itself, cups and beer tokens are available for purchase, including prepurchase options for an easier start to the evening.

Redmond Brewfest is one of those events that reminds people why local summer traditions matter. They give the community a chance to gather, support local businesses, and enjoy a night that feels rooted in place. That is a big part of what keeps this event relevant year after year.

Music on the Green Still Has Plenty of Summer Lef t

Even with one unexpected change to the schedule, Music on the Green still has a lot of good nights ahead.

The July 22 concert was canceled due to air quality and thunderstorms, which was the right call for the safety of attendees, performers, vendors, and staff. That said, the series is not slowing down. We are currently working on adding a bonus concert to help make up for the canceled event, with the date and band still to be determined based on availability.

If you have not made it out yet, there is still plenty of time to catch the rest of the season at American Legion Park. Music on the Green has a way of turning an ordinary Wednesday into something people actually look forward to: lawn chairs in the grass, families spread out in the park, local vendors set up by 5:30 p.m., and live music from 6:00 to 7:30 p.m. It is easy, fun, and one of those Redmond traditions that feels exactly right this time of year.

The next concert is August 5 with Pete Kartsounes. His style brings a strong singer-songwriter presence to the stage, making for the kind of evening that feels relaxed, thoughtful, and easy to settle into. It is a good fit for a summer night in the park, especially for people who like live music that feels a little more personal and grounded.

Then on August 19, That 90’s Band takes over, which should shift the whole mood in a fun direction. This is the kind of show that gets people singing before they even realize they know every word. For anyone who loves a little nostalgia, or just wants a high-energy night with a crowd that is ready to have fun, this one should be a big draw.

The season wraps up on September 2 with Hokule’a Ohana, bringing a performance rooted in Hawaiian and Polynesian dance and culture. That night will offer something a little different from the rest of the series and should make for a memorable close to the season. It is a great example

of what makes Music on the Green work so well overall. Each concert has its own personality, but the feeling of the event stays the same: welcoming, family-friendly, and community-centered.

That consistency matters. People come for the music, but they also come for the atmosphere. Kids dance near the stage. Friends run into each other. Visitors get a glimpse of what Redmond feels like in the summer. Local vendors and sponsors help create a full evening rather than just a concert in the park. It is one of the simplest events on the calendar, and also one of the most enjoyable.

So if you were disappointed to miss the July 22 concert, you are probably not alone. But there is still plenty ahead, and we are hopeful about adding one more date to the lineup. In the meantime, the remaining concerts still give the community several good reasons to come out, stay awhile, and enjoy the rest of the season together.

Bring a chair, bring a few friends, and make a plan to enjoy what is left of Music on the

Green. Summer is moving fast, but there are still a few really good Wednesdays left.

Redmond Chamber’s 37th Annual Golf Tournament is set for Friday, August 21, 2026, at Juniper Golf Course, and registration is now open for both teams and sponsors.

This annual event continues to be a favorite on the Chamber calendar, bringing together local businesses, community partners, and Chamber members for a day of golf, networking, and connection. It is a chance to spend time with colleagues and clients in a relaxed setting while taking part in one of the Chamber’s longstanding traditions.

Businesses are encouraged to consider a Hospitality Sponsorship as a way to increase visibility and engage directly with tournament participants throughout the day. Sponsorship opportunities may include hosting an activity at a hole, providing refreshments, or sharing promotional items with players. These sponsorships offer a strong way to connect with local business leaders while supporting a well-attended Chamber event.

Team registration is also open. Whether your group is playing for fun, friendly competition, or simply an enjoyable day on the course, the tournament offers a great opportunity to bring together coworkers, clients, or friends for a memorable outing. Team spots are limited and expected to fill quickly.

Members interested in participating are encouraged to register early to secure their place as a sponsor or player. The Chamber looks forward to another strong tournament and to welcoming participants for a day of golf, business connection, and community support at Juniper Golf Course.

What Your Team Isn't Telling You

A free one-hour session on building a team that tells you the truth.

Wednesday, July 29, 2026

10:00 am – 11:00 am PDT

Redmond Chamber of Commerce 446 SW 7th St, Redmond, OR 97756

Every leader gets a filtered version of the truth from their team. In this session we look at why that happens, what you may be doing that closes people down without realizing it, and what it takes to hear what your team actually thinks.

✓ A simple framework for what shuts people down and what opens them up

✓ One behavior to change this week, based on your own leadership style

✓ A free copy of Three Chapters plus free access to the Interface Coaching AI app

the ranch NEWS FROM

July 3,2026 on a warm Friday evening was the beginning of a festive celebration for the Ranch community. Mac Park was the venue for the annual CRR ‘Barn Dance’ 6:00pm-10:00pm with the band starting at 7:00pm. Central Oregon Barbeque Company brought their great tasting BBQ, along with Black Goat Winery providing several types of wine along with a variety of beers. We were so excited to have one of Central Oregon’s favorite local bands ‘Dry Canyon Stampede’ led by Kurt Silva and Cynthia West on vocals, supported by talented musicians backing them up. They bring a soulful blend of traditional country western along with the new country hitting the charts now. It’s a family fun evening that has the dance floor hopping from the first song to the last. This event is free to all attendees sponsored by Crooked River Ranch Event Committee.

Bright and early Saturday morning, vendors arrived at 7:00am to set up for ‘Vendors In The Park,’ running from 9:00am to 3:00pm. Tucked into beautiful Mac Parkmeticulously maintained by the CRR Golf and General Maintenance teams- the market offers a perfect setting. Shaded trees, green grass, and the calming sound of the pond’s fountain added to the inviting ambiance.

New this year was a dedicated ‘Kids Zone,’ which was a massive success in its debut. It featured two bouncy houses, a balloon-twisting clown, and several booths with kids games. The CRR Lions Club also set up a loading and unloading station in front of the ‘Kids Zone’ for their popular children’s train!

Can everyone say, it’s a parade? The CRR Independence Day Parade featured the theme ‘250 Years Of Red, White and Blue.’ Staged at the Water Department, the event ran smoothly- starting at exactly 10:00am- thanks to the dedicated volunteers.

The community lined up along Chinook and Commercial, heading down to the bleachers on Clubhouse Rd. Information on each entry was provided by the Parade Announcer Carl Harbour. The route wrapped through the CRR RV Park and concluded at the corner of Hays Rd and Chinook.

Summing up an amazing weekend! Since the 4th landed on a Saturday this year, Central Oregon was packed with festivals. We are incredibly grateful that so many chose to celebrate with us at CRR. From our small hometown parade and a park packed with vendors to a fantastic evening concert, it was the perfect community celebration for America’s 250th birthday!

250 Years of Independence How Crooked River Ranch Celebrates in 2026

- by Brenda Cooper

BUSINESS WITH THE LIBRARY

by Liisa Sjoblom, Redmond Community Librarian

Liisa Sjoblom is a Community Librarian with the Deschutes Public Library. If you have a business research need or help fi nding grants for your nonprofit, contact her at liisas@deschuteslibrary.org or 541-617-7093.

Celebrate with the Library All Summer Long!

There is still plenty of time to participate in the Summer with the Library program, and there’s something for all ages. Get ready for a summer full of stories, creativity, and connection.

Just for signing up, you’ll be entered to win grand prizes like DUPLO kits, KiWiCo kits, and e-Readers. Complete a reading and activity log and you’ll also earn a free book of your choice—summer is better with books! To take part, simply track your progress online with the Beanstack app, or pick up a paper log at any Deschutes Public Library location (you can also download and print at home).

The library and other community organizations are teaming up to bring fun and learning to a neighborhood near you. Check out Library on the Go to find out where we’ll be sharing free books and fun activities.

For more information about Summer with the Library and Library on the Go events, visit our website

Summer Reading Recommendations

Summer reading offers a wonderful opportunity to explore new ideas, expand knowledge, and enjoy relaxing moments. Choose a mix of genres, including mystery, history, science, and contemporary fiction, to keep your reading experience engaging. Reading regularly during summer can improve vocabulary, spark creativity, and foster lifelong learning habits. Click on the links below for suggested titles at your library for any age group.

Adults

Early Learners

Kids

Teens

En español

Resource Spotlight: Libby

Heading out on a summer vacation? Libby is a road trip essential for free audiobooks to enjoy wherever your adventures take you. Listen on the road during long drives, relax with a story at the beach, or unwind in your own backyard. Audiobooks make travel more entertaining while helping you discover new authors and exciting stories.

Outrageous Startup Growth by Colin Hodge

Outrageous Startup Growth is a practical guide for entrepreneurs and business leaders seeking sustainable growth. Drawing on experience scaling startups to over 100 million users, Colin Hodge shares proven strategies for understanding customer behavior, building irresistible products, and creating effective marketing systems that drive long- term success and wealth.

July Summer with the Library Programs at the Redmond Library

Each month the Deschutes Public Library offers programs, story times, and events for all ages. Here is a selection of the Summer with the Library program offerings at the Redmond Library. See the full online calendar for additional programming.

How Not to Know

How To Not Know explores how embracing uncertainty can foster creativity, resilience, and growth. Through compelling stories and research, Simone Stolzoff offers practical tools for managing doubt, navigating

Library Adventures Outdoors, July 8, 5:00-6:30pm @ the American Legion Park, 850 SW Rimrock Way, Redmond Library and outdoor adventures with Nature Connect of Central Oregon. Family program

"Samurai in the Oregon Sky" Documentary Screening and Q&A, July 23, 2:003:15

A story of reconciliation: from WWII target to "second home."

Rumi in the Room, July 27, 6:00-7:30pm

Relax with poetry, Kriya yoga and a soothing sound bath.

Lunch & Learn has become one of the Redmond Chamber’s most valuable member programs because it is built on a simple idea: by members, for members. These sessions give Chamber businesses the chance to learn directly from fellow members who know their industries inside and out. Instead of broad, generic advice, attendees hear practical ideas from local professionals who are doing the work every day. That makes Lunch & Learn useful, approachable, and rooted in the real needs of Redmond’s business community. The Chamber’s strategic plan highlights monthly Lunch & Learn presentations alongside networking events like After Hours as core member offerings.

The primary focus of Lunch & Learn is education. Each session gives a host business the opportunity to lead a conversation on a topic they know well and share insights that can help other members grow. A financial professional might walk attendees through budgeting tips or cash flow basics. A marketing expert might share ways to improve social media, email campaigns, or brand visibility. A legal, HR, wellness, or operations-focused business can offer guidance that saves fellow members time, stress, and money. These are not sales pitches. They are educational sessions designed to create value, spark ideas, and strengthen connections across industries.

That member-to-member format is what makes the program special. When businesses teach one another, the Chamber becomes more than a networking organization. It becomes a place where expertise is shared, relationships deepen, and members leave with something they can actually use. Lunch & Learn creates room for thoughtful conversation, questions, and collaboration in a setting that feels supportive rather than formal. It also

gives host businesses a chance to showcase their knowledge and leadership in a meaningful way. Hosting a session is a great way to build credibility, introduce your business to new contacts, and be seen as a trusted resource in the community.

We would love to see more businesses step into that host role. Every member has knowledge worth sharing. You do not need a huge presentation or a complicated topic to make an impact. Some of the best sessions come from businesses that simply offer clear, helpful takeaways based on their day-to-day experience. Whether your expertise is hiring, customer service, bookkeeping, safety, technology, real estate, health, communication, or business planning, there is likely a topic that would benefit fellow Chamber members. By hosting a Lunch & Learn, you are not only promoting your business, you are helping strengthen the entire Chamber network.

Alongside Lunch & Learn, the Chamber also offers After Hours, which serves a different but equally important purpose. After Hours is casual networking. It gives members a relaxed space to connect, meet new people, and build relationships outside the workday. While Lunch & Learn is centered on education and shared expertise, After Hours is all about conversation and community.

If your business is interested in hosting an upcoming Lunch & Learn or After Hours, we encourage you to reach out. For After Hours hosting opportunities, please email Lacie at events@visitredmondoregon.com