Bend, OR March 2024

HOME + DESIGN

RUSTIC + MODERN DESIGN CREATES A DREAM CUSTOM HOME

INVEST IN YOUR HOME AND THE FUTURE WITH SOLAR ENERGY

WELCOME SPRING WITH AN INDOOR HERB GARDEN

Design Your Dream Chair

Never before have so many options been available to help you find the Stressless recliner that's just right for you. Most of our Stressless recliners are available in three sizes. We wanted to make sure that everyone is able to experience total relaxation, whatever their height or body shape. There are various bases, wood types and luxurious leather collections to choose from so that you can create the chair of your dreams. With so many unique options, all your requirements can be met and you'll find the perfect furniture to match your home.

Home

As I write this, I’m grateful to be inside our cozy home as wintery winds are blowing strong outside! This issue focuses on all things home—with stories to inspire you to make your home even better.

On the following pages, take a step inside a new custom home in Tumalo, built by Deschutes Custom Homes (DCH). The DCH team shares how they, together with the architect and landscape designer, made their vision for this unique home design become a reality. The creation of this beautiful home, showcased on our cover, is now a rustic oasis with modern touches for the homeowners.

We reached out to Bend-based National Solar to talk about their mission to provide clean, renewable energy options to homeowners through solar roofing, and now with the addition of battery back-up systems. The National Solar team shares how solar is a forward-thinking investment that can not only help us save on our power bill, but add value to our home and help protect the future of our planet.

With the anticipation of spring, check out our story on starting your own kitchen herb garden. Choose your favorite culinary herbs to grow indoors to brighten your kitchen and add fresh flavors to your favorite dishes.

From our home to yours, we wish you health and happiness. Stay safe and warm!

Bend Animal Emergency and Specialty Center Sponsors Wildlife Hospital Internships

Bend Animal Emergency and Specialty Center is partnering with Think Wild Central Oregon to sponsor eight Wildlife Hospital Interns for the spring/summer term. Think Wild operates a four-acre wildlife rehabilitation hospital on the northeast side of Bend and admits more than 700 injured and orphaned animals each year from Deschutes County and beyond. Internships last approximately nine weeks and closely follow the trimester academic calendar, with interns working three eight-hour shifts per week to assist with animal care onsite. ThinkWildCO.org, BendAnimalER.com

The Bend Cultural Tourism Commission Announces Grant Opportunity

The Bend Cultural Tourism Commission, a Visit Bend Project overseeing the Bend Cultural Tourism Fund (BCTF), is accepting grant applications from local organizations until March 7. The funds will assist local organizations to secure marketing resources with the goal of attracting more cultural tourists to the area during shoulder seasons and winter. Past BCTF grant awards have supported such programs as the Deschutes Public Library Author! Author! series and exhibits at the Deschutes Historical Museum. Funding begins in July. Culture.VisitBend.com

Central Oregon Growers and Producers Offer CSA Memberships

Many local area farms and ranches are now enrolling new members in Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) programs. A CSA program is one in which an individual pays a farm for a membership that entitles them to a “share” of the farm’s harvest and are popular way to support local producers and gain access tasty, seasonal fruits, vegetables, eggs, honey, meat, flowers and more! Central Oregon CSA’s fill up fast. For more info, go to HDFFA.org

Dr. Richard Mac Donell, MD

Founded in 2006 by Dr. Mac Donell, MyMD is now the most established, premier concierge practice in Bend.

Your health is our top priority.

You deserve the best medical care from the most qualified doctor. That’s why Dr. Richard Mac Donell at MyMD focuses on providing personal, intentional, and comprehensive care for a small group of patients. Board-certified in Internal Medicine, Dr. Mac Donell also works as your advocate, coordinating care among specialists and providing a unique and thorough approach to all your health care issues. Call to learn more today.

Membership includes:

• 24-hour phone access

• Same or next-day appointments

• Minimal to no wait times

• House calls available

• More!

“My husband and I were looking for top quality healthcare and hoping to make a connection with a doctor that would last for years—and we found it!”

- Jennifer & Brian Lanning, Bend MYMD MEMBER SINCE 2017

A VISION FOR A PEACEFUL OASIS BECOMES REALITY

Rustic + Modern Design

Deschutes Custom Homes team (l to r): John Knauss, Owner; Ken Sunzeri, Owner/Property Developer; Grant Hamlin, Project Manager.

ARTICLE BY SUE BALDANI | PHOTOGRAPHY BY NATALIE STEPHENSON

When Kenneth Sunzeri founded Deschutes Custom Homes (DCH) in Bend two years ago, he already had a lot of experience under his tool belt. “My forte is high-end custom home building,” he says. “For the past 17 years, I've been building 6,000 to 10,000 square foot houses on the [San Francisco Bay] peninsula.”

When he moved to Bend, he found there was a big need in the luxury market, so he and his partner, John Knauss, combined forces. While Sunzeri focused on new builds, Knauss handled large residential remodels.

“We bring fresh ideas to the table, and we try to stay boutique in the sense that we only do two to three houses at a time,” Sunzeri notes.

One home DCH recently completed in Tumalo incorporates a great number of unique details. Architect Jeffrey Warwick of Open Road Design worked with Sunzeri to create the perfect oasis for the homeowners.

“That was a really fun process,” Warwick says. “How Ken could visualize ideas as I was coming up with them was really great. Even outside of the design process, as things were going up, I would visit the house with him and as we were sitting there talking, he would come up with more really cool design ideas.”

A high end custom kitchen with modern touches complements the cozy, rustic feel of this new home.

Deschutes Custom Homes recently completed a new build in Tumalo, incorporating a number of unique details.

Adds Sunzeri, “Jeff was willing to work with us and kind of push the boundaries on the vision that we had with the client. Our goal was to create a home that combined the rustic feel of a retreat in the woods, juxtaposed with bold modern touches. We also wanted the interior to be mostly natural wood elements, specifically white oak.”

The main focus of the home was the great room. “Beginning with floor-toceiling windows on both sides, it really opens up the interior and gives the impression you are outdoors,” Sunzeri explains. “Additionally, the room boasts stained cedar walls and a vaulted ceiling, and a 20-foot-tall natural stone fireplace. Finally, the furniture was selected to fit perfectly with the construction, and gives you a feel that you are in a lodge in Jackson Hole or somewhere similar.”

The furniture was chosen by interior designer, Julanda Shannon. “Julanda has a very unique style,” notes Sunzeri. “She’s from Berlin, Germany, so she has this big city edgy style that she's able to mold into a Pacific Northwest landscape. Instead of the same modern cabin style interiors, hers really stands out as unique.”

In addition to the interior of the home, much thought and creativity went into the outside area as well. Tim Schmidt with Land Effects can take credit for the lovely surroundings.

“He's a landscape designer and has a company that installs the landscape as well,” Sunzeri notes. “Having worked with him in the past, I've seen his creativity, abilities and palette and trusted him a hundred percent. We pretty much gave him full rein to do what he wanted. Basically, here's the budget — make it beautiful — and he really came through.”

The landscaping includes natural boulders and native stones, which Sunzeri says helped make the home feel like it belonged in the space organically. There’s also a stone staircase leading up to the entry of the home.

Floor to ceiling windows invite the beauty of the outdoors inside this majestic living space.

A living space large enough for a grand piano, complete with sky lights that invite plenty of natural light into the home.

“It's just elegant and creates this very organic feel,” notes Sunzeri. “There's also an area that has a little therapy nook with a spa, sauna, and a cold plunge. There's an outdoor fire pit and barbecue area too.”

“It's a really cool look and I think it turned out amazing,” adds Warwick. “When I was standing there looking at the finished product, the memory of when I decided to be an architect was in that moment. The relationship I’ve had with the builder and the owner and being able to stand in the completed house is just an incredible feeling.”

The homeowners were also ecstatic about the finished product. “It was everything they imagined,” states Sunzeri.

The team at Deschutes Custom Homes is comprised of skilled home builders from Bend, Seattle and the Bay Area. “We see a need in the market and hope to bring our experience building extremely custom and challenging projects to Central Oregon with the hopes of being the future of Central Oregon luxury living.”

DeschutesHomes.com

Tim Schmidt with Land Effects designed an outdoor space that incorporates rocks, boulders and plants native to Central Oregon.

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Choose

When it comes to investing in your home, there seems to be an endless list of possibilities. But, what if your next home project could be an investment in your home that also is an investment in the future? One that makes an impact beyond your own home and family by protecting our environment, our natural resources, and this place we all call home, our planet.

Solar panel installation is one such project. One that also makes a lot of economic sense for homeowners. With both federal and state tax incentives, along with state rebates, solar installation is a forward-thinking investment in a clean, renewable energy source for your home.

If you have been considering solar energy for your home, one local company is ready to meet your needs. With over 3,000 projects completed to date, Bend-based National Solar is celebrating 15 years in business. A recent partnership with Generac, a top manufacturer of home backup generators, offers National Solar the ability to now offer solar panel installation complete with a battery backup system. National Solar chose to partner with Generac because of their solid clean energy product line.

Founded in 2009 by Bend residents Janelle and Justin Lancaster, National Solar is proud to serve the entire state of Oregon, meeting the increasing interest in and demand for alternative energy sources. Janelle serves as President of the company while Justin serves as Head of Sales and Marketing. Originally from Seattle, the Lancasters relocated to Bend with the goal of raising their young son with better access to the outdoors and the benefits of smaller town living.

Shortly after founding National Solar, the Lancasters were excited to bring on John Harley as a part-owner and VP of Production. John operated his own construction company and came to National Solar with years of experience.

CONTINUED >

Photo credit:

“In time, the system can pay for itself, and with the multitude of incentives and rebates available today, that could happen sooner than you would expect.”

“We started National Solar in Oregon and Brimma Solar in Washington after the recession,” states Justin. “We serve the entire state of Oregon, but our company is based here in Bend.” Before that, the Lancasters owned a remodeling company that served the PNW. “We saw an opportunity in the solar industry, particularly in Oregon,” states Justin. “There was a need for a full-service solar company that could offer a concierge type of service, from project management to financing to installation, and now battery back-up systems.”

Senior Project Manager Pat McManus has been with National Solar for almost two years, and in the solar industry for over seven years. “As a project manager, I meet with every customer to evaluate their home and to design a system to meet their needs,” explains McManus. “I love helping homeowners achieve their goals. Some have been wanting solar for many years, and others are first time homeowners.  Either way, it’s exciting to make it happen. Anyone who owns a home should consider going solar.”

“Whether you want to lower your utility bill, shrink your carbon footprint, or increase your home’s value, solar is a great investment and one of the easiest ways you can contribute to a clean energy future,” McManus says. “Now that we install Generac batteries, you can achieve the same peace of mind you’d get from owning a gas-powered generator, but without the carbon emissions. Our installation team is at work yearround, even in the grey of winter. Another day, another solar array!”

When it comes to the installation of a new solar system, Adam Martin is a National Solar Crew Lead for the installation team and enjoys being part of the renewable energy movement. “Every home is different, every project is different and presents unique challenges, which is perfect for someone like me who enjoys working outdoors, working hard and takes pride in problem solving,” Martin explains. “Grid-tied solar can provide customers with a lower power bill and the satisfaction of being on the right side of history. In time, the system can pay for itself, and with the multitude of incentives and rebates available today, that could happen sooner than you would expect. Generac’s battery backup systems are some of the best on the market and are easy to install and operate. Our new partnership with Generac allows us to install these systems for competitive prices and offers us and our clients unparalleled customer service and support.”

Founded with a simple mission, “commitment to a positive change,” and following their company motto of “today, tomorrow, together,” National Solar is committed to the future, the local community, and the environment. According to Justin, “Our success can be attributed to our employees who work tirelessly for our clients. Our mission is to provide reliable, high quality solar and battery backup systems at a fair price, while giving our employees living wages and an enriching work environment. We love serving the community where we live and raise our children. We are not looking

- Adam Martin, National Solar Crew Lead

for a quick buck, but really to partner with our client for the long haul. This is our model.”

“We expect another busy year ahead,” Martin says. “Especially with Generac’s battery backup system added to our high quality product arsenal.”

WHY SOLAR IS THE SUPERIOR CHOICE

Choosing solar energy over fossil fuels is a forward-thinking decision that aligns with both environmental stewardship and economic sensibility. By opting for solar power, you’re investing in a cleaner, more sustainable future while also benefiting from financial savings over time.

RENEWABLE AND CLEAN

Solar energy is abundant and emits no pollutants, reducing your carbon footprint and contributing to a healthier planet. Unlike fossil fuels, which release harmful greenhouse gases and are finite, solar power provides a limitless, clean energy source that safeguards the environment for future generations.

COST-EFFECTIVE IN THE LONG RUN

After initial setup costs, solar energy can significantly reduce or even eliminate your electricity bills. Plus, with minimal maintenance expenses and the increasing cost of fossil fuels, solar offers long-term savings and a hedge against rising energy prices.

For more information on a solar system for your home, Federal Tax Credits and the Oregon Solar + Storage Rebate Program, check out National Solar online.

NationalSolarUSA.com

Photo credit: National Solar

ARTICLE BY JULIE E. FURNAS

With spring right around the corner, in Central Oregon that can mean sunny skies, chilly temperatures and cooking that ranges from warm soups to outdoor grilling. While the weather can be unpredictable, one thing is for sure – it’s the season to start an indoor herb garden!

Nothing says spring like getting our hands in the dirt, planting seeds, and watching the magic happen. Indoor ‘micro gardens’ not only provide us with fresh ingredients for our favorite foods and beverages, but they brighten and enhance window and wall spaces. Whether in a small kitchen window or a wall with vertical shelving, an indoor herb garden is the easiest and most economical way to access fresh herbs.

LOCATION, TOOLS, AND MAINTENANCE

When planning the details of an indoor garden, begin by picking a location where there’s plenty of direct sunlight or somewhere where an artificial light can hang effectively. Next, when deciding which herbs to plant, research to find out what each one needs to thrive. Every flower, plant, and herb is unique and has its own special needs. Lastly, the right materials are key for a successful indoor garden.

MATERIALS

• Porous pots with drainage holes

• Proper soil

• Artificial LED lighting (if natural light is not available)

• Herb enrichment products (fertilizer, plant vitamins)

• Clipping scissors

SPRING HERBS

Basil - When you think about Central Oregon spring herbs, it’s hard to not think about basil. With so many varietals, basil adds flavor to salads, soups, sauces and more. With good

soil, correct watering and plenty of light, basil will thrive indoors. Best grown in late spring and in summer months, once your basil gets going-it’ll be hard to get it to stop!

Chives - Place your chive pot in a spot that receives at least six hours of natural light. Keep the soil moist by watering frequently and making sure there is proper drainage. Fresh chives are delicious in both hot and cold dishes and add a beautiful aesthetic to small kitchen spaces.

Rosemary – The secret to growing this unique herb indoors is to use the correct soil, a porous terracotta pot with plenty of drainage, a ton of sunlight and frequent check ins. Watering rosemary is only necessary when soil is completely dry. Rosemary adds flavors to several dishes and a delicious garnish for cocktails.

Mint – While sometimes tricky to get going, with proper set up and maintenance, mint will thrive in warm spaces. Like other herbs, mint needs proper soil and a lot of sunlight. When mint gets started, move to a bigger pot and put outside for the summer. Mint will be the most fragrant herb you have inside and is great in Spring cocktails, desserts, and hot tea.

Cilantro – Who doesn’t love fresh cilantro in the spring? With its bright, long branches, cilantro loves sunlight and welldrained soil. It can be on the fussy side when it comes to its PH balance, and neighboring with other herbs like rosemary, however once it gets the attention it needs, it will provide a delicious addition to your favorite recipes.

Other herbs that do well in Central Oregon are oregano, parsley, and thyme. If space is limited, plant the ones you will use the most and maximize your space. Keep tools close by and remember to check moisture levels every day.

From unique, antique pieces of furniture to heirloom-quality rugs and fine finishing touches, Area Rug Connection has something for every home.

events

A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS

MARCH 1ST — 3RD

Bachelor Butte Dog Derby

Wanoga SnoPark, Bend | 3:00 PM

The Bachelor Butte Dog Derby is an opportunity to experience the splendor of the Cascades near Bend while watching dogs and their humans compete on various courses and in a variety of events, from skijoring to sled dog races. The courses will be challenging, and the classes offered somewhat nostalgic. Sponsored by the Pacific Sled Dog and Skijoring Association. PSDSA.org

MARCH 9TH

Central Oregon Beekeeping Association (COBKA) 2024 Beginning Beekeeping Course

The Embark Coworking Community, 2843 NW Lolo Dr., Bend | 8:30 AM

This annual beginner beekeeper course is perfect for newbies. Information and strategies to help successfully navigate the first year of beekeeping using Landstroth hives. Topics covered include: woodenware, setup/location for hives, acquiring and installing new bees, tools and protection, colony inspection, varroa and other pests, bee biology and curveballs. Registration is free for COBKA members, $20 for non-members. COBeekeeping.Wildapricot.org

MARCH 10TH

She’s Speaking: Songs About Women, By Women, For Everyone

The Tower Theatre, Downtown Bend 7:30 PM

She’s Speaking was co-founded in 2020 by Oregon singer-songwriters

Beth Wood (Sisters), Bre Gregg (Portland), and Kristen Grainger (Salem) to honor women, who are traditionally unrepresented across the music industry. This inspiring collaboration will touch your heart, uplift your spirit, and get your toes tapping while honoring the power of women’s voices and stories during Women’s History Month. TowerTheatre.org

MARCH 15TH

An Irish Rambling House

Presented by the Tower Theatre Foundation

Tower Theatre, Downtown Bend 6:30 PM

In Ireland, the neighbors would pick a house to ramble to in the evenings to share music, dance, and story. It was these settings that bore their humor, charm, and a sense of community and togetherness which is what Rambling House exemplifies. The Rambling House returns to the Tower Theatre! Reserved seating. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. TowerTheatre.org

MARCH 24TH

Bend Health Fair & Bend Beauty Expo

Riverhouse Convention Center, 3075 N Hwy 97, Bend | 9:00 AM

Enjoy two great events at one location, featuring a visit from the Easter Bunny and an easter egg hunt for kids. Be one of the first 150 guests and receive a swag bag with AMAZING gifts and goodies. Your $5 ticket gets you into both events! Raffle ticket sales and entry fees benefit Family Access Network and Humane Society of Central Oregon. BendHealthFair.com

Katharine Jeffcoat,

MIXING HEALTH AND FLAVOR

A Delicious Mocktail to Savor

Without the Alcohol.

ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES

ROSEMARY PEAR MOCKTAIL

INGREDIENTS

ROSEMARY SIMPLE SYRUP

• 1 cup cane sugar

• 1 cup water

• 3 sprigs of fresh rosemary

ROSEMARY PEAR MOCKTAIL

• 5 tablespoon pear juice

• 1 tablespoon rosemary simple syrup

• 1 teaspoon lemon or lime juice

• sparkling water to taste

INSTRUCTIONS

HOW TO MAKE ROSEMARY SIMPLE SYRUP

Combine sugar and water in a pot and cook over medium heat. Cook until sugar is completely dissolved. Turn off heat and toss in rosemary sprigs. Cool Completely.

HOW TO MAKE ROSEMARY PEAR MOCKTAIL

Pour pear juice, rosemary simple syrup, lemon juice, and sparkling water. Add ice and garnish if desired.