Source Weekly December 19, 2024

The Source Weekly 704 NW Georgia Ave., Bend, OR 97703 t. 541-383-0800 bendsource.com info@bendsource.com

story, “The Damned Deschutes” by Nigel Jaquiss. This story was produced by the Oregon Journalism Project, a nonprofit investigative newsroom for the state of Oregon. Learn more at oregonjournalismproject.org.

Call for Artists: If you're interested in being a SW featured artist, email: production@bendsource.com.

INSIDE THIS ISSUE:

4

EDITOR IN CHIEF

Nicole Vulcan - nicole@bendsource.com

MANAGING EDITOR

Chris Young - editor@bendsource.com

FEATURES AND INVESTIGATIVE REPORTER

Jennifer Baires - features@layitoutfoundation.org

REPORTER

Julianna LaFollette - reporter@bendsource.com

REPORTER / CALENDAR EDITOR

Savannah Mendoza - calendar@bendsource.com

COPY EDITOR

Richard Sitts

FREELANCERS

Jared Rasic, Joshua Phillips, Megan Baker, Scott Bowler, Nigel Jaquiss

SYNDICATED CONTENT

Rob Brezsney, Brendan Emmett Quigley, Jen Sorensen, Pearl Stark, Tom Tomorrow, Matt Wuerker

PRODUCTION MANAGER / ART DIRECTOR

Jennifer Galler - production@bendsource.com

GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Ben Irish - design@bendsource.com

SALES DIRECTOR

Ashley Sarvis

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES

Ban Tat, Chad Barnes

advertise@bendsource.com

DISTRIBUTION MANAGER

Sean Switzer

CONTROLLER

Angela Switzer - angela@bendsource.com

PUBLISHER

Aaron Switzer - aaron@bendsource.com

WILD CARD

Paul Butler

NATIONAL ADVERTISING

Alternative Weekly Network 916-551-1770

EDITOR’S NOTE:

This week’s paper highlights a new collaboration with the recently established Oregon Journalism Project, a nonprofit that aims to expand investigative reporting in the state, on a story that’s relevant to our region. Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Nigel Jaquiss explores what’s harming the lower Deschutes River, an issue that’s dividing the river’s basin. On one side are Portland General Electric and the Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs; on the other are scientists, fishermen and residents. OJP’s team of reporters will continue to cover important issues throughout Oregon that small, independent newsrooms in far-flung corners of our state — if they even exist at all — may not be able to cover in this manner. We are excited to amplify OJP’s inaugural piece of investigative journalism and look forward to joining forces again on future stories.

Meanwhile, our own team of in-house reporters — Jennifer Baires and Julianna LaFollette — broke a story about a City of Bend engineer who resigned following an internal investigation into a partnership with developers. Read this news and more on the following pages. If you have any news tips, feedback or just wanna spread some holiday cheer, feel free to reach out at editor@bendsource.com. Hope you’re staying warm out there and planning on some quality time with your loved ones during this coming week!

LIGHTMETER: PRESENTED

“Introducing our limited-edition Dark Holiday Roast! Get ready to sleigh your taste buds with the most festive, eagerly awaited blend of the season. Smooth, rich, and full of flavor, this dark roast features the perfect mix of chocolate-covered cherry vibes with a cozy kick of allspice warmth. It’s the holiday spirit in a cup!” Thank you so much @junction_roastery for tagging us in this cozy photo of your new holiday coffee roast! Don't forget to share your photos with us and tag @sourceweekly for a chance to be featured as the Instagram photo of the week and in print as our Lightmeter.

BY HARVEST MOON WOODWORKS @junction_roastery IG HARVESTMOONWOODWORKS.COM CUSTOM. CABINE TS

Healthy Adventures Await!

Keep Homeless Law in Place, and Focus on Housing

Over the last several years, much has been said about homelessness in Oregon — and everyone has an opinion. Lock them up, some say. Allow them the small dignity of sleeping on the street when they find themselves down on their luck, others say. In the midst of public dismay over visible camping on the streets of Portland, Bend and elsewhere, lawmakers in 2021 aimed to come up with a solution that would give local governments the ability to remove unsafe campsites, while also providing some type of protections for people living unsheltered.

Just a few years later, some in the state are talking about clawing that solution back.

That 2021 bill, then-legislator Tina Kotek’s HB 3115, was created at a time when the federal court ruling, Martin v. Boise, hung over the heads of governments all along the West Coast. Under that ruling, cities could not remove people from campsites unless that city had adequate shelter capacity for the removed people to go to. But this summer, a new Supreme Court ruling, based on a case out of Grants Pass, effectively did away with the mandates of Martin v. Boise, and made it ostensibly easier for cities to clear camps that are unsafe or involve lawless behavior — except, as we pointed out in an earlier opinion, that HB 3115 codified some of the same protections from Martin v. Boise into state law. Whatever the Supreme Court had decided, we opined, our own state law would serve to protect the vulnerable people with no other place to go, while also giving local governments some leeway to develop their own time, place and manner restrictions on things like clearing camps.

That’s exactly what Bend did, and, while clearing a camp is never an easy task, it’s the opinion of this editorial board that those time, place and manner restrictions have struck a fine

balance. People are given notice when a site is deemed unsafe and will be cleared. Service providers and representatives from the City and Deschutes County are on hand to offer help finding shelter or meeting other needs. And while these processes locally have not resulted in a radical elimination of homelessness in our community, they’re striking that difficult balance.

So, why are some, including the League of Oregon Cities and some Democrats in the legislature, advocating for a repeal of the 2021 law that struck that balance? A pair of words in that bill appear to be at issue: the words “objectively reasonable.” The language of HB 3115 allows people to sue local governments if they are affected by local policies around camping that are not “objectively reasonable.” The bill’s language was kept intentionally vague so as to allow each local government to craft policies that fit its needs. The needs in Portland, which continues to experience some of the most visible effects of homelessness on the streets and neighborhoods of the city, are very different from the needs of Bend, where many of the most populated areas for unsheltered camping lie on public lands on the outskirts. The term “objectively reasonable” seems reasonable here for that reason.

Given that the incoming Trump administration has promised to develop federal policies around incarceration of people experiencing homelessness, it’s not shocking to learn that a more hardline stance is being proposed by some at the state level. But we tend to agree with homeless advocates who say that the current state law is working, and that every hour we spend on an issue like this is one less hour spent on building the housing the state needs to address its decades-long period of under-building that got us in the housing crisis we see today.

In the 12/12 Opinion, “The Machinations Continue with Sheriff-Elect's Effort to Recoup Legal Fees,” we stated the records were released on Vander Kamp’s website, and that Vander Kamp's attorney was based in California. Those statements were incorrect. We have also removed a section in the fifth paragraph that speculated on Vander Kamp’s hiring of a private attorney rather than county counsel. We regret the errors.

SHERIFF LEGAL FEES

The Source’s Sept. 18, 2024, Opinion piece titled “Vote Kent Vander Kamp for Deschutes County Sheriff” started out with “Like it or not, the present election for the next Deschutes County Sheriff plays as a referendum on current Sheriff Shane Nelson. Under his leadership, the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office has been plagued with lawsuits and personnel complaints that have not only put a stain on the office, but cost county taxpayers plenty, to boot.”

Vander Kamp ran on a platform of changing the Deschutes County office culture and building fiscal responsibility. Depending on where you get your news and how you interpret Vander Kamp’s own statements, it appeared Vander Kamp was prepared to release the details of his prior personnel file contents himself. Then his attorneys filed suit to prevent the release of those file’s contents in October. THEN that same team of attorneys inadvertently released the contents of the personnel files via a legal filing.

NOW Vander Kamp is asking the courts to rule in his favor for Deschutes County taxpayers to pay his legal fees! Vander Kamp has not yet even been sworn in (slated for January 2025), and it appears to me that the culture which Vander Kamp sought to disrupt is prevailing.

Sir, you won the election. Pay the legal fees. Let’s move forward toward the progress of culture change and fiscal responsibility.

—Nick Rajewski

REGARDING ROAD TRAFFIC TO THE EAST SIDE IN THE NEXT FEW YEARS

We moved to the east side of Bend in 2010 after buying in 1998. My concerns now are the road traffic to the east side via Reed Market Road. Just a few years ago, we (residents of Bend) paid $7 million for the sidewalk and paving of Reed Market up from Main Street. Now, several developments around the new east side library are putting up hundreds of homes that will all have one or two cars. I called the city back then to tell them it

HAVE SOMETHING TO SAY? Send your thoughts to editor@bendsource.com. Letters must be received by noon Friday for inclusion in the following week’s paper. Please limit letters to 250 words. Submission does not guarantee publication. Opinions printed here do not constitute an editorial endorsement of said opinions. Letter of the week receives $5 to Palate!

was going to be a waste of money to no avail. How are new residents (and old) going to get home from the west side or even Main Street with hundreds of new homes going up near Caldera High and along 27th, not to mention Reed Market and Greenwood? Who is planning this community without a look at the future? This is a nightmare in the making in my opinion. And what can we, the residents, do other than vote?

—Cindi Garvie

SUPPORT CHILDREN VIA SAVING GRACE

With holidays approaching, are you aware that incidences of domestic violence typically increase at this time of year? Did you know that in the past year Saving Grace has served 350 children in Central Oregon who are among the 5 million children in the United States who witness domestic violence annually? The impact of domestic violence on children is well documented, heartbreaking and something that we must address as a community from both a moral and public health perspective.

Exposure to domestic violence is widely recognized as an adverse childhood experience (ACE) that can literally change how a child’s brain develops and how their bodies respond to stress. This trauma can cause childhood depression, attention deficits and memory problems that affect children socially and in terms of their education. Trauma can hold otherwise bright, talented, compassionate youth back from thriving, instead often creating struggles that can last a lifetime.

When children with ACEs grow up, they can also experience a wide range of unfavorable outcomes such as chronic health problems, mental illness and substance abuse, and are also statistically more likely to commit acts of violence.

Understanding the childhood trauma of domestic violence is one of many reasons the services of Saving Grace have been and remain so important. As our region’s domestic violence and sexual assault support organization, Saving Grace serves survivors AND their children, helping kids heal and break the cycle of abuse. As you consider your holiday giving, please support Saving Grace however you can.

—Connie Peterson

SOMETHING TO BE THANKFUL FOR: THE PUBLIC SCHOOL SYSTEM

I could go into the history of my personal benefits, my children’s benefits and my grandchildren’s benefits from this system, but I won’t. Instead, an overview of my direct experience of 63

years participating in this system.

The teachers: Overall they are great! Like any aspect of the world, there will be some you love and some you don’t. But this I know: Teachers are dedicated, caring, intelligent people who do their very best to achieve excellence in their profession. They spend an inordinate amount of time designing and integrating lessons for their students. Many times, this includes raising extra money in their spare time to make sure students have supplies to enhance the learning experience (such as books, art supplies, etc.).

Teachers are involved in continuous professional education for quality improvement of their teaching skills. This benefits the teachers’ expertise, thereby improving the quality of education for the students. Secondarily, this benefits their colleagues as the standard of expertise and professionalism continuously improves and that standard of practice becomes the expectation for everyone involved in the public school system.

Whether we like it or not, the world in which we live is continuously changing. Teachers rise to this challenge in the process of continuous quality improvement while adhering to standards of practice.

The student is a whole person, bringing with them all the challenges in their lives to school. Teachers know this. That is why schools strive to create an environment that supports students, parents and families. After all, the family is the biggest influence on a child. Teachers know this. That is why they include

families in the process. I suggest that if you have questions regarding these statements, just ask to be a volunteer at a school and/or speak with the staff to see if you may observe the process.

I for one am so thankful that I have had the experience of participating in my children’s education. Not only for the educational part, but also I got to know their friends, the parents and the staff. This makes for strong schools, strong communities and strong students. This contributes to a society that has knowledge of critical thinking, communication skills and an expectation that all citizens have value. Most of all it elevates caring, safety and the knowledge that one is valued. And with all those skills our children will be caring, confident individuals. With these attributes in their “toolbox,” they will be able to be true to themselves and speak that truth to power.

—Vikki Hickmann

Letter of the Week:

Vikki, thanks for sharing your thoughts on how our education system serves our communities. We can appreciate sharing the love for our local teachers! Stop by and get your gift card to Palate.

—Chris Young

City of Bend Hosts Open House for Bend Bikeway Project

The City of Bend is hosting an informational, online open house from Dec. 16 to Jan. 2 on the final design for the Bend Bikeway Project. According to a press release, the open house will be the last public review opportunity before the designs are finalized.

The Bend Bikeway Project is one of many accessible bike and pedestrian routes the City of Bend is designing. This project, partially funded by the 2020 Transportation GO Bond, will utilize the existing system to build one connected and protected north-south and east-west route, designed to provide safe connections to schools, parks and other destinations for pedestrians and bicyclists. Construction is set to begin next year.

“Community members have said they want safer ways to travel across town on bike or on foot, and that’s what this Bikeways project will provide,” wrote Mayor Melanie Kebler in a statement.

—Julianna LaFollette

City Engineer Resigns Following Internal Investigation Into Partnership With Macher Developers

The head of Bend’s Private Development Engineering Division stepped down after residents in a southeast Bend subdivision questioned her involvement with a proposed development in the neighborhood

By Jennifer Baires and Julianna LaFollette

Acity employee who led Bend’s Private Development Engineering Division resigned last month, on the heels of an internal investigation into ethics violations for her participation in a development group with former executives at Pahlisch Homes.

—The number of years the annual Dirksen Derby has brought snowboarders and sitskiers together on the slopes of Bachelor, from the Go Here story, “Dirksen Derby Rally Race Returns to Mt. Bachelor For Year 17”

“The health of the lower river is at risk for sure. DEQ is not looking out for the public’s interest. That agency needs a kick in the pants.”

—David Moskowitz, executive director of nonprofit The Conservation Angler, from the Feature story, “The Damned Deschutes” by Nigel Jaquiss of the Oregon Journalism Project

Deedee Fraley, an engineer with the City from 2017 until her November resignation, was the assistant city engineer in charge of a division that handled permitting for private development of public infrastructure, including sewers, water and streets.

In September, residents of a southeast Bend subdivision first raised concerns to city officials about Fraley’s involvement with the purchase and proposed development of a property in their neighborhood. Among their allegations are that she misled numerous homeowners about her intentions with the property, aiming to gain support for changing the neighborhood’s covenants to allow for the development of a quadplex on a lot where a single-family home currently stands, and that she never disclosed she was purchasing the property in partnership with developers. The same developers are also working on a major development behind the property.

During the Source Weekly’s investigation into the neighbors’ claims and the City’s response, we spoke with multiple people in the subdivision, a City employee directly involved with the investigation and Fraley and her partners in the development group. We also obtained and reviewed publicly available documents, from pre-applications on the properties in question to the subdivision’s historical and revised covenants, conditions and restrictions — as well as business entity filings. What we found is a story about an unconventional partnership, with motives that differ based on perspective.

The Partnership In May, while searching for a potential property to develop, Fraley says she came across a house in a southeast

Bend subdivision that looked promising. Getting into development, she told the Source Weekly, was a longtime ambition of hers, inspired by her in-laws, who are developers. To help her with the project, Fraley said she reached out to Jerry Jones, president of the development company Macher and the former director of land development at Pahlisch Homes, the largest developer in Bend. Fraley said she knew Jones because of her job at the City. To avoid possible conflicts, Fraley said she disclosed her potential hiring of Jones and her plans to develop the property to her manager at the City of Bend and was advised to “create a firewall” between herself and the permit and application process. According to Fraley, this is how other City employees have approached personal property development. However, when initial funding for her project fell through, Fraley said, Jones broached the idea of forming a partnership to buy and develop the property instead.

“Jerry suggested the partnering, as that is what he’s done with other clients to get funding,” Fraley said. In a statement to the Source Weekly, Jones agreed that he was the one who initiated the partnership after Fraley's initial funding fell through.

“…Macher expressed interest in participating in the project, instead of a fee-based contract for hire,” Jones wrote.

This change, from potentially hiring Jones to forming a development group with him, was a change Fraley said she didn’t think she needed to disclose to the City, but it would prove to be a contentious difference.

“I didn’t think of the partnering as an issue, I guess. But after further discussion with the City, I can see their perspective on that, and that’s where my decision to resign really stemmed from,” Fraley told the Source Weekly.

To purchase the property, Fraley and Jones, along with Brian Gaskins — former director of finance at Pahlisch and now a managing partner at Brightview Capital — and realtor Nicolaus Jones formed

Terra Development Group LLC. It is unclear at what step in the process the group came together. According to Deschutes County property records, the group closed on the southeast Bend property, 21005 Via Sandia, on June 17, but the property was listed as pending with contingencies on May 2, according to Zillow records. The house, a three-bedroom, one-bath, ranch-style home, is just over 1,000 square feet and sits on less than half an acre. It sold for $560,000, according to records. The property is part of a small subdivision of 22 homes in southeast Bend, an area of the city that is the focus of large developments by multiple developers — including a proposed 42-unit subdivision by Macher Development on the 5-acre lot just behind it, along Cabin Lane.

The Purchase, the Neighbors Toward the end of May, before the Via Sandia purchase closed, Fraley went around Tara View Estates, the subdivision where the property is located, asking homeowners to amend the neighborhood’s CC&Rs to allow for development beyond one unit on a lot. According to multiple neighbors’ accounts, Fraley told them she wanted to buy the property for her family and needed the amendments made so she could add an accessory dwelling unit. She brought a notary with her and personalized forms for each homeowner to sign — a move that some in the neighborhood say felt aggressive, but that Fraley told the Source Weekly was practical and meant to ensure that no one felt coerced into signing. The forms, filed with Deschutes County Clerk’s Office, show that between May 22 and June 10, Fraley made at least four trips to Tara View Estates for signatures, with 11 of 22 residents signing off on the changes. The last signature on record is from Gaskins on July 30 on behalf of Terra Development Group, the owner of the Via Sandia property by that point. Records obtained from the County show that the changes to the

neighborhood’s CC&Rs included deleting sections limiting land use and building type to residential purposes, requiring architectural approval by a neighborhood committee and stipulating setbacks for buildings. Fraley said the changes were made to bring the CC&Rs, enacted in 1979, up to modern-day zoning allowances.

In a written statement to the Source Weekly, Gaskins and Jones maintain that having the CC&Rs amended was critical to them moving forward with the partnership and development of Via Sandia with Fraley.

“For Via Sandia, they [we] expressed to Deedee for this one property we could include her once she completed some due diligence on her own (including revisions to CCRs) and [was] ready to move forward,” Gaskins and Jones wrote to the Source Weekly.

At an Old Farm District Neighborhood Association meeting in October, months after the revisions were made and the property sold, homeowners brought up their concerns over the scope of the Via Sandia project – a proposed quadplex. Several expressed frustration with the changes Fraley initiated to the neighborhood’s CC&Rs and questioned her role in the development, given her job at the City. By that time, several homeowners had already sent in letters and made calls to the City expressing their worries.

“I was completely blindsided, along with so many of us. We all thought it was an extra house, two homes not four,” said neighbor Terese Dingus.

“I just feel it’s so unethical, said Jenny Lacombe during the meeting. “She’s got an inside scoop... It’s something she shouldn’t be doing in her job.”

Bend City Councilor Mike Riley, the Council’s liaison to the Old Farm District Neighborhood Association, was at the meeting and assured neighbors that

the City was investigating the matter, looking into ethical concerns and conflicts of interest.

A Quadplex and Sewer Connection

In separate interviews, a handful of neighbors told the Source Weekly, that they, too, believe Fraley misrepresented herself when she was looking to purchase the property. They said that in addition to their concerns over the scale of development proposed, they also worry that a driving force behind the purchase was to use part of the lot as a sewage connection for the proposed 42-unit Macher development behind it along Cabin Lane.

In response, Fraley told the Source Weekly that, to those who asked, she disclosed that she worked for the City and said she never told the neighbors she planned to live at the property or build an ADU on it. And, along with the other members of Terra Development Group, she maintains that the Via Sandia property and the 42-unit Cabin Lane development behind it are not significant to each other – that aside from the physical closeness and the overlap of Macher development leaders, they are unrelated.

“We can adamantly say that the purchase and partnership of Via Sandia has nothing to do with the Macher land and development project on Cabin Lane,” Jones and Gaskins wrote in response to Source Weekly questions. However, in a June 18 conceptual plan that Macher filed with the City, a sewage tie-in to a mainline for its 42-unit Cabin Lane development was noted as being possible through the Via Sandia property. A property that by that time, Jones – president of Macher – owned through the Terra Development Group LLC.

According to Jones and Gaskins, the conceptual plan Macher submitted was a preliminary attempt to note all potential access points.

her supervisors to be a part of the Via Sandia development.”

Colin Stephens, Fraley’s former supervisor and director of the City’s Community and Economic Development Department, spoke with the Source Weekly on Dec. 6 about the allegations against Fraley. He said the City initiated an internal investigation into Fraley’s development following the complaints and did not find any incidents of “undue influence” during her seven years with the City. When asked about whether the City knew of the partnership between Fraley and the developers before Terra View Estates neighbors came forward, and whether such a partnership was allowed, Stephens said he could not answer questions specific to the investigation but pointed to the City’s Employee Handbook and the section dealing with ethics.

Under “Conflict of Interest,” the section begins with establishing general parameters around relationships with people who also do business with the City.

“At that time, Macher was trying to uncover every option to bring water and sewer to the Cabin Lane development,” they wrote. “At the time of pre-application, the City had been working on a much larger plan and construction project bringing sewer utilities to all the Southeast Area Plan, but nothing was 100% understood.”

Now, following a sewer analysis on Dec. 5 showing a forthcoming sewer line on Cabin Lane that was approved for another development on the street, Jones and Gaskins say a connection through Via Sandia is not needed.

Fraley told the Source Weekly she was not aware of a possible sewer connection. She said she entered into the Terra Development Group and purchased with the sole intention to develop an investment property, and she says she wasn’t even aware Macher was developing the lot behind it.

Possible Conflicts

Following complaints from the Tara View Estates neighbors, the City initiated an internal investigation. The details and findings from that investigation, as with other personnel issues, are private. However, Fraley maintains that City officials, including her manager in the Community and Economic Development Department, knew of her plans to develop Via Sandia and that it wasn’t a problem until neighbor complaints came rolling in.

“I had already talked to the City about wanting to do development, and so I disclosed the process, that I was trying to purchase the property, with the City. So, I attempted to disclose everything to the City,” said Fraley. What she says she did not disclose was that partnership.

Gaskins and Jones say they believed the City was informed about the partnership. “We were reassured consistently that Deedee had approval from

“You may not solicit, obtain, accept, or retain any personal benefit from any supplier, vendor, customer/client, or individual or organization doing or seeking business with the City. This means you may not maintain an outside business or financial interest or engage in any outside business or financial activity that conflicts with the interests of the City or interferes with your ability to fully perform your job responsibilities.”

A Development on Pause

In November, records show — and Fraley and Terra Development Group members confirm — that Fraley left the LLC and is thus no longer an owner of the Via Sandia property. She said she is hoping to continue pursuing other development opportunities now that she resigned from her position with the City.

Gaskins and Jones say they are reassessing the timeline for when to continue with a middle housing development on the Via Sandia property. The plans Terra Development Group LLC submitted at the end of July for a middle housing development were denied due to an “incomplete application,” according to a letter sent to the group by the City on Aug. 12. The application will be void on Jan. 18, 2025, if the group does not submit the missing information.

Last month, neighbors in the subdivision filed to change the covenants back to their original wording. They got the necessary number of signatures, but it is unclear if any changes filed with the County would be enforceable. For now, the possibility of larger developments on the lots in Tara View Estates remains.

—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.

21005 Via Sandia in the Tara View Estates subdivision sits vacant.

Julianna LaFollette

City of Redmond Addresses Confusion Over Partnership with Visit Redmond

Redmond Mayor Ed Fitch turned

By Julianna LaFollette

In October, the Redmond Chamber of Commerce, which operates Visit Redmond, suggested a new partnership with the City of Redmond, requesting financial support in order to continue providing destination services and community events. On Dec. 10, Redmond City Council members addressed the proposal and provided the Council’s stance on funding the operations of private nonprofits.

The request for a new partnership, along with additional funding, came after the City decided to redirect the tourism tax dollars in June 2024 to a different agency, Watson Creative, to develop a more robust marketing effort. The Portland-based agency was selected through a request for proposals, which the Chamber did not respond to.

According to the Chamber, which received about $350,000 in tourism tax dollars from the City in the 2023-2024 fiscal year, the change in allocation created a gap in the services the Chamber can provide to visitors and community members.

On Oct. 24, the Chamber sent the City of Redmond a proposal requesting $150,000 per year from the general fund — the same money used to fund police, transportation and parks — to ensure the continuation of its tourism services. Just a few days later, the Chamber sent out a press release stating that continued funding from the City would prevent the Chamber from having to cut services and events. As a result of the press release, Mayor Ed Fitch said at a Dec. 10 City Council meeting, the Council received comments and emails from residents, raising concerns about the City’s funding and partnership with Visit Redmond.

“First and foremost, the bottom line is that the City has not taken any money away from the Chamber,” Fitch said at the meeting.

According to Fitch, members of the Redmond City Council and the Chamber met in early November to discuss the proposal. “The Chamber was notified that there is no funding mechanism in the current budget for these purposes,” Fitch said. “The Chamber was also notified of the City Council’s general policy not to fund the operations of nonprofit organizations with taxpayer money.”

At the Dec. 10 meeting, Fitch also addressed the City’s issues with the Chamber’s October press release, noting that it was sent out without any notice or discussion with the Council.

“Partnership is built on trust, and what occurred in the last few months has really eroded a lot of that trust,” he said.

Last year, the City of Redmond terminated its contract with the Chamber, effective June 30 2024, after an audit identified expenditures that did not qualify under state law for use of the transient lodging tax.

In October, Visit Redmond’s Executive Director Eric Sande told the Source Weekly he’d never heard about the misappropriation of funds.

The Chamber’s previous contract with the City allowed it a percentage of the transient lodging tax, explained Fitch. Over the last 10 years, he said, the City provided the Chamber more than $2.7 million in room tax resources.

Sande did not respond to requests for comment at the time of publication. At this time, it’s unclear whether the Chamber has paused or cut back on community events and services.

“We’re ready, willing and able to work with the Chamber to restore that trust, but it can’t be in this fashion,” Fitch said.

HOODOO’S WINTERVENTION

A SNOW-FILLED GIVEAWAY SERIES

Wintervention is Hoodoo Ski Resort’s snow-filled giveaway series. With stops across Oregon including Wild Ride Brewing in Redmond, Hoodoo’s Wintervention series has prizes from ski passes to winter gear and “snow much” fun to offer. Thu., Dec. 19, 6-8pm at Wild Ride Brewing. 332 SW Fifth St., Redmond. Free.

A SEDUCTIVE CELEBRATION

Bend Burlesque Co. hosts a winter solstice showcase to celebrate turning 10 years old. Not only are folks celebrating the company’s 10-year history of sultry entertainment in Central Oregon but also the flourishing performing arts community as well. Sat., Dec. 21, 8-10pm at High Desert Music Hall. 818 SW Forest Ave., Redmond. $30-$80.

Residents shop at the Holiday Village Market, presented by the Redmond Chamber.

Redmond Chamber of Commerce FB

The Damned Deschutes

People who depend on an iconic Oregon river say a public utility is harming it.

By Nigel Jaquiss, Oregon Journalism Project

MAUPIN, Oregon — Alysia Littleleaf and her husband, Elke, make their living as fishing guides on the lower Deschutes River, near the Warm Springs Reservation.

A major tributary of the Columbia River, the Deschutes irrigates farmland, generates electricity and is the lifeblood of Central Oregon’s biggest industry, tourism. The river and its high desert landscape epitomize the region’s rugged beauty. Visitors come to raft, hike, bike, camp and fish on what legendary Oregon outdoors writer Harry Teel once deemed “the finest overall fly-fishing river in western America.”

Yet the Littleleafs, along with other guides, fishermen and environmentalists, have marshaled evidence that the river today is ailing — and getting worse.

“The fish in the Deschutes have been very significant to our people for time immemorial,” says Alysia Littleleaf, 40, a member of the Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs. “They can’t speak for themselves, of course, but if they could, I think they’d say, ‘I’m sick. I’m barely here.’”

Data collected by the nonprofit Deschutes River Alliance shows that two key indicators of aquatic health — water temperature and pH — regularly exceed Oregon Department of Environmental Quality guidelines for the river. Over the past 12 years, for instance, the DRA measurements show the water has been too warm on 297 days and, over the past eight years, it has exceeded the pH standard 75% of the time. Meanwhile, dissolved oxygen is regularly lower than required.

The result, according to Elke Littleleaf, 56, is noticeable: “I have been

“I have been fishing the river for 48 years. I’ve noticed the changes. There are fewer fish, and we’ve seen algal growth like we never had before.”

—ELKE LITTLELEAF, DESCENDENT OF THE WARM SPRINGS AND OTHER TRIBES

fishing the river for 48 years. I’ve noticed the changes,” he says. “There are fewer fish, and we’ve seen algal growth like we never had before.”

Littleleaf says he and his wife used to donate excess catch to tribal elders, but many fish now suffer from parasite-borne black spot disease, so they’ve stopped doing that.

The Littleleafs and other critics blame the lower Deschutes’ ills on the state’s largest utility, Portland General Electric. For more than 60 years, PGE has run the three-dam Pelton-Round Butte hydroelectric complex, which sits about 50 river miles upstream of Maupin and cleaves the lower Deschutes from its tributaries.

In particular, critics point to a decision PGE and state regulators made 15 years ago. The decision: to install, at ratepayer expense, a device designed to restore the native fish runs that dams blocked.

But critics say the device hasn’t worked, and the water quality in the lower Deschutes has deteriorated because of it. One of them is Carol Beatty, the mayor of Maupin, the unofficial capital of the lower Deschutes.

“The Deschutes River is what brought my husband and me to Maupin nearly 30 years ago,” she says.

Beatty, 81, says conditions have changed. “There’s a lot more algae along the river, and the fishing isn’t as good. What PGE’s done with the dams caused that,” says Beatty, who for many years taught women how to row the river and estimates she’s rafted it more than 200 times.

PGE acknowledges that 15 years after it began operating what’s called the selective water withdrawal tower, it has not yet worked as hoped. But the utility says critics are exaggerating harms to the Deschutes and adds that PGE is “fully in compliance with our license and water quality certificates on the Deschutes.”

The issue has divided people in the Deschutes River Basin. On one side: the utility and the Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs, who share ownership of the three-dam complex and jointly defend the tower.

On the other side: the DRA, fishermen and some residents of the Warm Springs Reservation, such as the Littleleafs. They know the tower exists so PGE can continue to operate the dams.

The dams in turn are a crucial cog in Oregon’s drive to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by relying more on hydroelectricity and other forms of renewable energy. But the consequence is that the Deschutes, its fish and the people who revere them risk becoming collateral damage. Put another way, Oregonians who benefit from reduced greenhouse emissions, including PGE’s 934,000 customers, are inadvertently facilitating the degradation of an iconic waterway.

Health of the Fish

The health of the fish runs on the Deschutes has been an issue since the Pelton Dam was completed in 1958. In 1964, with the completion of the Round Butte Dam, PGE unveiled the world’s longest fish ladder. But it never worked, and PGE abandoned it four years later.

In the late 1990s, as PGE moved toward renewing the dams’ licenses with the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, the Warm Springs Tribe announced it wanted the dams for itself.

The tribe’s rationale: The river and the dams are partially on the Warm Springs Reservation, and the dams’ construction harmed a fishery central to the tribe’s culture. (The dams also produce enough electricity to serve about 150,000 homes.)

PGE struck a compromise and agreed to sell the tribe what is now a 49.9% share of the dams, at a heavily discounted price. (The tribe will increase its stake to a majority in 2037.) PGE buys Warm Springs’ share of the electricity, providing the tribe its biggest source of revenue. In

2023, according to PGE’s federal filings, that payment was $47.3 million.

In 2005, FERC granted the dams a new 50-year license on the condition that PGE and the Warm Springs work to restore the passage of native Chinook and sockeye salmon and steelhead trout.

To do that, PGE proposed a novel solution: a selective water withdrawal tower. The tower was supposed to accomplish two things. First, machinery at the top of the tower would generate currents to attract juvenile fish hatched above the dams. They could then be collected and trucked around the dams to the lower Deschutes. (Previously, juvenile fish got lost in the reservoir of Lake Billy Chinook.)

Second, instead of exclusively releasing cold, clear water from the

There was a specific moment when the river’s fortunes changed for the worse: “right after the tower started operating.”

—RICK

HAFELE, RETIRED OREGON DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY SCIENTIST AND FISHERMAN

bottom of the reservoir to the lower river as PGE had done since the dams were built, the tower would blend bottom water with warmer surface water.

By releasing a mixture of bottom and surface water, PGE hoped to replicate the natural conditions of the river as if there were no dams.

“There’s a lot more algae along the river, and the fishing isn’t as good. What PGE’s done with the dams caused that.”

—CAROL BEATTY, MAYOR OF MAUPIN

is: They propose investments and, if the PUC finds the investment prudent, it sets rates that allow the utility to recover its costs and earn a handsome profit. (This helps explain why investor Warren Buffett owns the biggest utility west of the Rockies, PacifiCorp.)

Nobody had built a selective water withdrawal tower before PGE did. The novel proposal came with a hefty price tag: $107 million ($156 million in 2024 dollars). In 2008, PGE asked the PUC to greenlight installation of the tower at ratepayer expense and allow the utility a 10.1% annual profit on the tower.

PGE, records show, told regulators that the Deschutes dams have “virtually irreplaceable value to PGE’s system.”

Utilities love dams: The fuel (water) is free; they generate clean, renewable energy; and they act as giant batteries since their generation can be switched on and off easily. That is increasingly useful as utilities transition to wind and solar generation.

“It’s clean power that is dispatchable,” says Bob Jenks of the Citizens’ Utility Board, a watchdog group, “meaning you ramp it up and down very quickly when you need more or less power.”

When PGE asked the PUC for permission to charge ratepayers for the tower, Jenks’ group expressed doubts: The selective water withdrawal tower was unique and untested, and therefore the fish passage portion of the facility might not work. CUB argued that under state law, if PGE invested in any new electrical plant that failed, ratepayers would not have to pay for it.

Although it was an untested technology, the feds approved it. PGE then went in 2008 to the Oregon Public Utility Commission and asked that ratepayers pay the tower’s $107 million cost, plus a profit for the utility.

PGE made the case that ratepayers should foot the bill — whether the tower worked or not.

Records show PUC staff pushed back. So did the Citizens’ Utility Board, a watchdog group. But the three governor-appointed commissioners ultimately bought the utility’s argument.

The Public Utility Commission

In previous media coverage of the selective water withdrawal tower, little attention has been paid to finances. But money is at the heart of the deal.

Before it installed the tower, Portland General Electric needed approval from the Oregon Public Utility Commission. That agency, with 135 employees and an annual budget of $59 million, is supposed to ensure that Oregonians “have access to safe, reliable and fairly priced utility services that advance state policy and promote the public interest.” Utilities are highly regulated: In exchange for providing service, they get geographic monopolies and virtually guaranteed profits. The way that works

So, if the tower failed to restore fish runs, ratepayers shouldn’t have to pay for that either, CUB concluded. In separate testimony, PUC staff agreed. “Customers are in the untenable position of having to bear all risks for this project,” staff said.

But the commission, whose three members are appointed by the governor, approved it anyway — with a 95-year depreciation schedule, which means ratepayers will foot the tab for nearly a century regardless of whether the tower works. No annual reviews.

In its final decision, the commission did knock the allowed profit down — from 10.1% to 10%. (The two living commissioners who approved the deal, Lee Beyer and John Savage, say they remember little about it, except that it was a condition of relicensing the dams. “From the standpoint of the ratepayer, we are relying on [the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission] and DEQ to protect the water quality,” Savage says.)

The tower, the PUC reports, currently generates about $6 million a year in profit for its owners. That profit would disappear if PGE took the tower out of service, which gives the utility an incentive to keep it.

“That was a really unusual case,” Jenks says today. “Usually, utilities don’t take risks on unproven technology, but that tower got them their FERC license.”

Rep. Ken Helm (D-Beaverton), who has been fishing and camping on the

Round Butte Dam with the selective water withdrawal tower in the foreground

Diagram of the selective water withdrawal tower at Round Butte Dam

Portland General Electric

Portland General Electric

Elke and Alysia Littleleaf

Deschutes for more than 40 years, says the state can be too deferential to utilities.

“I have many objections to the types of costs that Oregon’s investor-owned utilities are allowed, by law, to pass on to customers — and the cost of the mixing tower is one of them,” Helm says. “The hard truth is that this is not the PUC’s problem because its regulatory function, in this instance, is to protect ratepayers — not fish.”

Changing Fortunes for the River

Rick Hafele, a retired Department of Environmental Quality scientist who has fished and studied the Deschutes for 50 years, says there was a specific moment when the river’s fortunes changed for the worse: “right after the tower started operating.”

Almost immediately, those who fished the river’s lower 100 miles noticed a difference. “They were complaining about temperature — how warm the water was,” Hafele recalls.

For 22 years, Hafele had worked all over Oregon’s rivers and lakes as a DEQ water quality scientist. And for 35 years, he also moonlighted teaching fishermen about insects and fly fishing in Maupin. He has written eight books on those subjects.

Hafele and two other retired state scientists (one from DEQ and another from the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife) soon began systematically testing the water for the DRA and have continued for more than a decade.

They found the water PGE blended and released to the lower river consistently failed to meet the required standards in the utility’s original DEQ permit.

That’s because the warmer water on top came from the Crooked River and the upper Deschutes, which are warmer and more polluted than the Metolius River, the dams’ third tributary.

Steve Pribyl, a retired ODFW biologist who spent his career studying the Deschutes, works closely with Hafele. He says another key benchmark of whether the tower is working — fish counts — yields a clear signal (see chart at right).

“The health of the lower river is at risk for sure. DEQ is not looking out for the public’s interest. That agency needs a kick in the pants.”

—DAVID MOSKOWITZ, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF NONPROFIT THE CONSERVATION ANGLER

His conclusion? “Reintroduction continues to fail miserably at returning adults,” Pribyl says.

PGE has always said the reintroduction of fish would take time. The utility’s hydro environmental manager, Megan Hill, acknowledges fish returns aren’t what the utility hoped but says this year’s record steelhead numbers are encouraging.

“We were probably optimistic on the time scale,” Hill says. “We’re seeing incremental progress. We want it to be faster.”

From 2010 through 2020, DEQ and PGE negotiated a series of “interim agreements” allowing the utility to

“The fish in the Deschutes have been very significant to our people for time immemorial. They can’t speak for themselves, of course, but if they could, I think they’d say, ‘I’m sick. I’m barely here.’”

—ALYSIA LITTLELEAF, MEMBER OF THE CONFEDERATED TRIBES OF WARM SPRINGS

meet lower water quality standards than in the original permit. In effect, Hafele says, the state agency gave PGE a pass.

“The Oregon Department of Environmental Quality needs to enforce the Clean Water Act,” Hafele says. “They need to do this by requiring that PGE develop a water quality improvement plan.”

David Moskowitz, executive director of nonprofit The Conservation Angler, agrees. “The health of the lower river is at risk for sure,” Moskowitz says. “DEQ is not looking out for the public’s interest. That agency needs a kick in the pants.”

PGE spokeswoman Allison Dobscha says the interim agreements reflect the “expectation that we would continue to adjust our operations as we gather data, analyze results and make thoughtful course corrections supported by the science.”

DEQ insists it is holding PGE and the Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs accountable.

“The Pelton-Round Butte dam project and its facilities are in compliance with their DEQ-issued 401 water quality certification,” says DEQ spokesman Antony Vorobyov.

Vorobyov says by blending the water, the tower achieves the goal of replicating the conditions that would exist without the dams. “The selective water withdrawal tower largely achieves what it was designed to do.”

Dobscha says critics who want PGE to return to releasing as much of the cold, cleaner water from the bottom of Lake Billy Chinook are missing the bigger picture.

“Their persistence on this topic results from a desire to return to the conditions that resulted in predictable patterns for certain fish species that are attractive and exciting for sport

ODFW, PGE

fishing over more natural conditions that benefit the broader ecosystem of the Deschutes,” she says.

To be sure, among the people who would benefit from the removal of the tower are sport fishermen. But since its founding in 2013, the Deschutes River Alliance has had one focus — advocating for the lower 100 miles of the river.

In 2016, the group took its fight against the tower to federal court in Portland, suing under the federal Clean Water Act. U.S. District Judge Michael Simon ruled in PGE’s favor, finding the DRA hadn’t proved its case.

The alliance appealed. In 2021, the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals dismissed the case without considering DRA’s complaint, reasoning that the tribe has sovereign immunity and therefore cannot be sued.

Through the years, The Oregonian, Oregon Public Broadcasting and other news outlets have reported on the conflict over the tower. And this year, local filmmakers released a documentary about the lower Deschutes, called “The Last 100 Miles.” The filmmakers said PGE and the Warm Springs declined interview requests. The Oregon Journalism Project learned this fall that the tribe hired a public relations firm that pressured some venues, including the Deschutes Brewery and the Patagonia store in Bend, to cancel planned screenings of the film.

“The Tribes are concerned how the documentary undermines their tribal sovereignty,” Mixte Communications of Portland wrote to one venue in a November email. “This documentary is a public relations attempt at circumventing what the host — Deschutes River Alliance — couldn’t accomplish twice through the courts.”

“Fish returns above the dam are abysmal, which means that the tower has failed in its purpose. Its use should be discontinued.”

—REP. MARK GAMBA (D-MILWAUKIE)

“Algae was of negligible presence prior to the change in temperature regime. I have also observed the significant decline in insect hatches — salmon flies, mayflies and caddisflies that feed trout, birds and bats. Key species that I experienced regularly in past years, such as night hawks and bats, are diminished substantially — the river is not in good condition.”

—REP. KEN HELM (D-BEAVERTON)

Bobby Brunoe, CEO of the Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs, says critics of the selective water withdrawal tower are myopic and self-interested and lack the tribe’s long-term perspective. “It’s disappointing,” Brunoe says.

“Our work covers the entire Deschutes basin, not just the lower river,” Brunoe adds, noting the tribe has been involved in dozens of different projects to improve habitat and water quantity and quality.

Brunoe acknowledges fish returns have been less than he and others hoped for. “We knew it was going to be a longterm process,” he says. “We’re always very patient.”

The disagreement over the tower isn’t exactly David versus Goliath. David at least had a slingshot. Last year, the DRA reported revenues of just $437,000. PGE collects more than that every 90 minutes.

At the same time, some members of the Oregon Legislature are paying attention. Two members of a key panel, the House Committee on Agriculture, Land Use, Natural Resources, and Water, share some of critics’ concerns.

One of them, state Rep. Mark Gamba (D-Milwaukie), is among Salem’s strongest advocates for Oregon’s clean energy transition, which depends in part on the flexibility and storage capacity of dams.

Nonetheless, Gamba is skeptical of the tower. “Fish returns above the dam are abysmal, which means that the tower has failed in its purpose,” Gamba says. “Its use should be discontinued.”

Gamba thinks it’s time for neutral parties to do some fact-finding. “The Legislature should start with oversight and get some questions answered by the PUC, DEQ and PGE,” he says.

Gamba’s colleague, Rep. Helm, grew up in Bend and says he has camped and fished on the river every year since 1980, one year spending 70 days on the Deschutes. Speaking from personal experience, he’s noticed big changes since PGE erected the tower.

“Algae was of negligible presence prior to the change in temperature regime,” Helm says. “I have also observed the significant decline in insect hatches — salmon flies, mayflies and caddisflies that feed trout, birds and bats. Key

species that I experienced regularly in past years, such as night hawks and bats, are diminished substantially — the river is not in good condition.”

The DRA has asked PGE to consider a pilot program in which it would return to releasing as much cold, clear water from the bottom of the reservoir as possible. The organization points to an independent study PGE commissioned in 2021 that found such an approach promised the best results.

But PGE’s Hill says that’s a nonstarter: “Our modeling shows it wouldn’t make any difference.”

As Oregon races toward eliminating net greenhouse gas emissions by 2050, new data centers are projected to drive electricity demand sharply higher. That means the Deschutes River dams’ importance — and value — will only grow. Oregonians who benefit from reduced emissions, including PGE’s customers, will contribute to the continued degradation of the Deschutes.

State Rep. Emerson Levy (D-Bend), whose district includes a long stretch of the Deschutes, says it’s important that the river not become an unintended casualty.

“The lower Deschutes River is incredibly important to our region,” Levy says. “There are multiple factors stressing the river, including the tower, and as a state, we are a steward of our lands and waters.”

The Littleleafs welcome such interest. They say if state officials were looking out for the river and the public good rather than bowing to the state’s largest utility, they would protect one of the tribe’s — and Oregon’s — greatest resources. And, they say, PGE’s relationship with the people of the Warm Springs Reservation is all too familiar.

“It’s all about the money,” says Elke Littleleaf, the Native fishing guide. “These guys have just used us for our resources.”

—This story was produced by the Oregon Journalism Project, a nonprofit investigative newsroom for the state of Oregon. Learn more at oregonjournalismproject.org.

Deschutes River vegetation

Trout with black spot disease

Rick Hafele, retired DEQ scientist who has been fishing the Deschutes for 50 years

Checking insect health

Brian Burk

Brian Burk

Amy Hazel

Brian Burk

SOURCE PICKS

WEDNESDAY 12/19

BOARD & SKI WAX NIGHT

SKI WAX, PINTS AND SNOWBOARD FILMS!

Head over to Crux for a board and ski wax night. The Between Evergreens mobile tuning van will be on-site offering waxes and tunes. As your gear gets tuned, relax with a pint while ski and snowboard movies play inside on the big screen Thu., Dec. 19, 4-8pm at Crux Fermentation Project. 50 SW Division St., Bend. Free.

FRIDAY 12/20 + SUNDAY 12/22

SWINGIN’ TOWER CHRISTMAS

CHRISTMAS SHOW AT TOWER THEATRE

Enjoy the return of the beloved, family-friendly show with the liveliest songs and stories of the season. Host Mollie Tennant heads a cast of local performers accompanied onstage by her husband Jim’s live, 16-piece big band. Fri., Dec. 20-Sun., Dec. 22, 7pm at Tower Theatre. 835 NW Wall St., Bend. $46-$56.

UGLY SWEATER BEER PONG TOURNAMENT WITH KARAOKE

HOLIDAY-THEMED FUN

Celebrate the holidays with beer pong, ugly sweaters and mainstage karaoke. Participate in a beer pong tournament ($10 to compete solo or $15 per team) and enjoy a night of holiday-themed fun! Sat., Dec. 21, 8pm at Volcanic Theatre Pub. 70 SW Century Dr., Bend. Free.

SANTA’S HOLIDAY SLAY PARTY

SLAY AT BOSS RAMBLER’S CHRISTMAS PARTY

Dust off your Christmas sweaters, reindeer hats, Santa suits and elf boots for a good, old-fashioned Christmas party featuring DJ Young Kris Kringle playing a live holiday set. Wear holiday attire and get $1 off all drinks including cocktails and Jell-O shots. Sat., Dec. 21, 6-9pm at Boss Rambler Beer Club. 1009 NW Galveston Ave., Bend. Free.

NEVER COME DOWN WITH SKILLETHEAD

THE BELFRY SOLSTICE CELEBRATION

Portland-based band Never Come Down weaves together modern and traditional styles of American music. Joining the five-piece is Bend’s Skillethead for a music-filled winter solstice celebration in Sisters. Sat., Dec. 21, 6:30-10pm at The Belfry. 302 E Main Ave., Sisters. $29.

SATURDAY 12/21 + SUNDAY 12/22

PATAGONIA WORN WEAR REPAIRS AT MT. BACHELOR

REPAIR YOUR FAVORITE CLOTHES

Does your favorite piece of clothing need a fix? To cel ebrate the Dirksen Derby, Patagonia’s Worn Wear team will be slinging free repairs — one per person, on any brand. Bring it to the repair station at the upper level of West Village Lodge.

Dec. 22, 9am-1pm at Mt. Bachelor Ski Resort, West Village. 13000 SW Century Dr., Bend. Free.

SATURDAY 12/21

SNOWSHOE WITH A RANGER AT WALTON LAKE

EXPERIENCE WINTER MAGIC

Join a ranger at Walton Lake Recreation Area near Prineville for a family-friendly adventure as the ranger takes you through snow-draped landscapes and shares expert insights. All skill levels are welcome. Sat., Dec. 21, 11am at Walton Lake Recreation Area. NF-2220, Prineville. Free.

SATURDAY 12/21

HOWLIDAYS SATURDAY SCREENINGS: “THE GRINCH”

WATCH THE CLASSIC CHRISTMAS COMEDY AT PONCH’S PLACE

Ponch’s Place presents a screening of the Christmas classic “The Grinch.” During the film, enjoy seasonal hot beverages and snacks to bring in the holiday season. Sat., Dec. 21, 6pm at Ponch’s Place. 62889 NE Oxford Ct., Bend. Free.

MONDAY 12/23

CHRISTMAS MOVIE TRIVIA

TEST YOUR HOLIDAY MOVIE KNOWLEDGE

Put your holiday knowledge to the test with Christmas movie trivia featuring films such as “Love Actually,” “The Muppet Christmas Carol,” “How the Grinch Stole Christmas” and “The Santa Clause.” Gather a team of six people max and wear your ugliest Christmas sweaters for a chance to win extra prizes. Mon., Dec. 23, 6-8pm at Bevel Craft Brewing. 911 SE Armour St., Bend. Free.

Brandy Peterson

Bevel Beer

KaresFleming

Tower Theatre

S SOUND Gather ’Round the Fire

A

chat with

returning singer/songwriters Austin Quattlebaum, Karyn Ann and Joel Chadd before they play The Suttle Lodge’s Fireside Series this winter

By Chris Young

It’s December and the cold weather is officially here. While ski bums and shredders are rejoicing, others may be seeking a little respite to warm their frozen bones. Winters at The Suttle Lodge & Boathouse in the Deschutes National Forest are the time to cozy up by the warmth of a fire and take in intimate live music.

“We started the Fireside series in 2020 and we have been going strong ever since!” says Anne Wilson, the lodge’s sales manager.

From now through the middle of April, the lodge hosts its annual Fireside Concert Series on most Thursdays from 6 to 8pm. “Many of the artists we host are local-ish from Portland, but we also get musicians from all over traveling through on tour.”

This season’s lineup features Central Oregonians like guitar slinger Eric Leadbetter (Jan. 2), the shape-shifting Jeshua Marshall (Jan. 16), acoustic, singer/songwriter duo Alicia Viani and Mark Karwan (Feb. 13) and TEB’s Travis Ehrenstrom sharing his solo craft (March 20).

Seeing as it’s such a warm, inviting environment for both listeners and artists, The Suttle Lodge definitely receives its share of repeat performers, and the Source Weekly spoke to several of this year’s returning Fireside artists.

Source Weekly: Who are you and where are you from?

Austin Quattlebaum: Quattlebaum, born and raised in Savannah, Georgia, moved to Bend two years ago by way of Appalachia, the Sierras and Portland.

Karyn Ann: My name is Karyn Ann. I am a Portland-based singer/songwriter.

Joel Chadd: My name is Joel Chadd. I’m a singer/songwriter originally from the small logging town of Philomath, Oregon. I’ve called the high desert of Central Oregon and Bend my home now for 18 years.

SW: What kind of music do you make?

AQ: I like to call it weird-grass. More accurately it’s probably indie folk with a bluegrass edge.

KA: I call my music soulful Americana and mostly perform on guitar and piano.

JC: You could call it Americana folk with some alt-country in there. When I’m touring, I tend to play solo and that will lend itself to the singer/songwriter genre. I love to sing, that’s my main instrument. The acoustic guitar is what I perform and write songs with.

SW: Sounds like you’ve played the lodge before. What do you love about it?

AQ: I love playing out at Suttle Lodge — such a beautiful and inspiring place. Playing inside the lodge is even cooler because the rafters overhead, great acoustics and the cozy atmosphere makes it feel like playing inside of a guitar.

KA: I like how it's surrounded by nature and the feeling of being secluded in a forest. The lodge staff are super friendly, and the audiences are really kind and attentive.

˝The rafters overhead, great acoustics and the cozy atmosphere makes it feel like playing inside of a guitar.”

— AUSTIN QUATTLEBAUM

JC: Suttle Lodge is such a supportive and welcoming space for an artist like myself and so many of my friends. To have a gig out there is kind of like attending an artist retreat of some sort. It’s a special place to share music for sure. The indoor building has a real warmth and welcoming vibe to it, plus good acoustics. The staff is also a big part of what makes it great, just easygoing with good vibes.

SW: What can we expect from your Fireside set?

AQ: A wide range of original material. Unique banjo arrangements, some cello banjo and a few choice covers.

KA: I’ll be performing my previous releases from the past few years, as well as previewing new tunes from my forthcoming new album set to be recorded this January 2025.

JC: You can expect heart-forward original songs with vocal harmonies and catchy melody lines that’ll leave you wanting more. I’ll be joined by my friend and talented pedal steel player, Evan Forsythe. It’s going to be a great night of music and stories at a historic cabin on a beautiful lake — what more could you want?

SW: Have any new music to share? What’s next for you?

AQ: Hibernating this winter with the intention of putting out two new EPs. This will be my only home market play this winter!

KA: I recently released a new four-song EP called “Consequence of Fear.”

JC: I’m prepping to be back in the studio in January to record a new batch of songs that I hope to start sharing in the summer of ’25.

Karyn Ann plays The Suttle Lodge’s Fireside Series on Thursday, Jan. 9, Austin Quattlebaum on Thursday, March 27 and Joel Chadd on Thursday, April 17.

The Suttle Lodge's Fireside Concert Series

Most Thursdays from now until April 17

The Suttle Lodge & Boathouse 13300 US-20, Sisters bendticket.com/organizations/the-suttle-lodge-boathouse $10

Julia Varga

Little Green Eyes

Julia Duke Photo

AUSTIN QUATTLEBAUM

KARYN ANN

JOEL CHADD

CALENDAR

18 Wednesday

Bridge 99 Brewery Open Mic Night at Bridge 99 - Hosted by Oddfellow Join us for an unforgettable Open Mic Night presented by Oddfellow! Grab your friends, showcase your skills, and cheer on fellow artists! Sign-ups start at 6pm, event happens every Wednesday. Let’s make some beautiful music together! 6:038:30pm. Free.

The Cellar-A Porter Brewing Company Wednesday Jam Sessions Drink some fine cask or imported beers and try some amazing British pies while listening to local musicians jam out. 6:30-8:30pm. Free.

Crosscut Warming Hut No 5 Eric Leadbetter Relax with a pint and enjoy great local music from Eric Leadbetter. 6-8pm. Free.

Deschutes Brewery & Public House Head Games Trivia Night Eat. Drink. Think. Win! Head Games multi-media trivia is at Deschutes Bend Public House every Wednesday. Win prizes. Teams up to six. 6:30-8:30pm. Free.

JC’s Bar & Grill WING-skey Wednesdays + TRIVIA Wednesdays at JC’s are a triple threat: $0.75 wings, killer whiskey specials and trivia kicking off at 7pm. Bring your A-game for our infamous “physical challenge” (think limbo and musical chairs!) and a night full of laughs and flavor. Don’t miss out - It’s the best midweek party in town! 7pm. Free.

M&J Tavern Open Mic Night Downtown living room welcomes musicians to bring their acoustic set or turn it up to eleven with the whole band. Bring your own instruments. Goes to last call or last musician, whichever comes first. 21+. 6:30pm. Free.

Northside Bar & Grill Mellow Wednesday Acoustic Open Mic and Jam hosted by Derek Michael Marc Sign-up sheet is available at 6:30pm. 7-9pm. Free.

Prost! Bend Trivia Prost! UKB Trivia is now at Prost! Bend on Wednesdays at 7pm! Genuine UKB Trivia is no average trivia night! Meet up with friends, win gift card prizes for top teams! Enjoy Prost’s authentic beer and food menu. Trivia is free to play, with no buy-ins! 7-9pm. Free.

LIVE MUSIC & NIGHTLIFE

The Commonwealth Pub Wednesday Piano Bar Hour with McKenna Unwind with live music and a touch of elegance every Wednesday at The Commonwealth Pub! McKenna brings her soulful vocals and dynamic piano skills to the stage, creating the perfect backdrop for your midweek escape. 4:30pm. Free.

The Commonwealth Pub One Mad Man Based out of Bend, Spencer Snyder sets the bar for creating powerful, original music live. Snyder loops together multiple instruments to create moody, driven backdrops accompanied by smooth vocals. Hip-hop style drums drive funk-inspired bass followed by electrifying sounds from his keyboard and guitar. 7:30pm. Free.

19 Thursday

Austin Mercantile Live Music Every Thursday Join at Austin Mercantile for live music every Thursday. Offering a light happy hour menu — daily flatbread, chili, charcuterie, soft pretzels and more! 4:30-6:30pm. Free.

Bridge 99 Brewery Trivia Thursday at Bridge 99 Brewery Trivia Thursdays at 6:30pm at Bridge 99 Brewery with Useless Knowledge Bowl. It’s no ordinary trivia night, Team up to win house gift cards! Great brews, cocktails, and more. In-house menu and food truck options available! It’s free to play. Indoor and outdoor seating available. 63063 Layton Ave, Bend. 6:308:30pm. Free.

Bunk+Brew Karaoke Thursdays Sing your heart out during Karaoke Thursdays at Bunk + Brew! Whether you’re a pro or just here for fun, join us for a night of music, drinks and laughs. Don’t miss the ultimate karaoke experience! 7-10pm. Free.

Elements Public House Trivia Night at Elements Public House with QuizHead Games Come be all you can be with Trivia Night every Thursday from 6-8pm! Featuring QuizHead. games. Located at the north end of Redmond. Full bar and great food! 6-8pm. Free.

Mountain Burger Richard Fitzgerald at Mountain Burger Come check out Richard Fitzgerald at Mountain Burger’s Thursday Night Live! 5pm. Free.

Ticket and promote your events with BendTicket! >

Trivia Night at Ponch’s Place

Trivia Thursdays at Ponch’s Place with QuizHead Games from 6-8pm. 6-8pm. Free.

Cory Phillips Blue-eyed soul singing, wizardly acoustic guitar work, obligatory sexy grooves, and masterful song crafting. 6-8pm. Free.

Silver Moon Brewing Trivia on the Moon Come down to Silver Moon Brewing for a night of trivia! Teams are welcome to show up in groups up to 8 people. Silver Moon also offers seating reservations for $20 donations that all go to F*Cancer! If you would like to reserve a table please contact the Trivia on the Moon Facebook page. 7pm. Free.

Stihl Whiskey Bar The Brandon Campbell Trio Live Gypsy Swing with The Brandon Campbell Trio at Stihl Whiskey Bar! 7-9pm. Free.

Stoller Wine Bar Bend Live Music at the Stoller Wine Bar | Bend with Derek Michael Marc Join us at the Stoller Wine Bar for our Thursday live music series, featuring various bands and genres to satisfy all musical tastes. We will have an assortment of light snacks, wine, beer and non-alcohol beverages available for purchase. Reservations are available for your convenience, but are not required. 6-8pm. Free.

The Commonwealth Pub Fluffalove at The Commonwealth Pub! Fluffalove plays “music for the soul” consisting primarily of ‘70s folk-rock gems. Its “Laurel Canyon” vibe includes two acoustic guitars (and sometimes a smokin’ electric guitar) and tight harmonies. 6:30pm. Free.

The Dez Lounge Open Mic w/ Joyful Lane Join Joyful Lane as he hosts open mic night @The Dez Lounge! Enjoy NA cocktails, Charcuterie and desserts while listening to local talent! 6-9pm. Free.

The Lot Live Music with Skinny Dennis @ The Lot Skinny Dennis is an acoustic duo comprised of Bill Sterling on guitar and vocals and Rodney Toogood on bass and vocals. Classic rock tunes, ‘80s indie pop, singer-songwriter stylings and original songs propel Skinny Dennis’ sound and will get you and your friends smiling and moving to songs you know. 6-8pm. Free.

20 Friday

Craft Kitchen & Brewery Family Bingo Night Looking for a night of fun for the whole family? Come join us for a delightful evening of Bingo, laughter, and community spirit, all in support of a great cause! 6-8pm. Free.

Deschutes Brewery Tasting Room Fresh Squeezed Friday w/ UKB Trivia Fresh Squeezed Friday with UKB Trivia at Deschutes Tasting Room. Join us for Apres ski, or kickstart your weekend. It’s useless knowledge bowl live trivia at Deschutes Brewery Tasting Room! Featuring $5 Enjoy tasty food cart options. Free to play. 5pm. Free.

Hardtails Bar & Grill Stage 28 Karaoke Come out for a night of Stage 28 Karaoke with your host Miss Min! What’s your go-to karaoke tune? Come to Hardtails for a fun Friday night and sing your heart out! 8pm-Midnight. Free.

Hawkeye & Huckleberry Lounge Blackflowers Blacksun Blackflowers Blacksun at The beautiful Hawkeye and Huckleberry. Dine drink and dance. 8-11pm. Free.

Immersion Brewing THE DUCC Comedy Showcase presented by BUCC Every 3rd Friday of the month THE DUCC will land in the Backroom of Immersion Brewing at the Box factory in Bend. Come experience a comedy showcase featuring mainly local talent, occaisional special guests, plenty of surprises and audience interaction! 7-9pm. $20-25.

Big E’s Sports Bar Karaoke Night Central Oregon’s most fun karaoke venue! Karaoke is hosted by A Fine Note Karaoke Too and DJ Jackie J. Delicious food and drink and a friendly staff. 8pm. Free.

M&J Tavern Dinirium Come drink, be merry, and rock out to your favorite local underground metal band. 9pm. Free.

Ponch’s Place Music with the Sun Threaders Enjoy Friday night music (holiday themed) at Ponch’s Place with the Sun Threaders from 5:307:30pm. 5:30-7:30pm. Free.

The Commonwealth Pub Heller Highwater Heller Highwater is a five piece dance band with roots in R & B and classic rock. Whereever Heller is playing there is a party going on. Based out of Bend, Heller Highwater creates a vibe that audiences of all ages can move to! 8pm. Free.

The Dez Lounge Eric Leadbetter Live! Come by the Dez for NA cocktails, Na beer and wine, delicious charcuterie and decadent desserts while taking in the rocking tunes of amazing local musician Eric Leadbetter! 6-8pm. Free.

Wildwood Bar & Grill Rob Gregerson at WildWood Rob Gregerson is the premier modern day acoustic-electric one-man-band performer and music/podcast producer in Central Oregon. Over a 25-year-music career, Rob has wowed audiences across the nation as a solo performer using the art of live looping and acoustic guitar wizardry. 7-10pm. Free.

21 Saturday

Austin Mercantile Saturday Afternoon Live Music Austin Mercantile is now adding live music on Saturdays! Serving wine, beer, lite happy hour menu, gifts and home decor. Hope to see you soon! 4:30-6:30pm. Free.

Boss Rambler Beer Club Santa’s Holiday Slay Party Dust off your Christmas sweaters, reindeer hats, Santa suits and elf boots for a good old-fashioned Christmas party featuring DJ Young Kris Kringle (aka DJ Robert Planet) playing a live Holiday Set. $1 off all drinks for legit holiday attire, Holiday Cocktails, Jell-O Shots, Retro Christmas Flicks + Holiday Cheer! 6-9pm. Free.

Bridge 99 Brewery Live Music Saturday at Bridge 99 Come enjoy live music at Bridge 99 Brewery in NE Bend. Rotating musicians, check our FB for who’s playing! Grab a beer and a pizza and enjoy our amazing local and traveling musicians! Looking for a location to play solo or with a band? Email events@bridge99brewery.com for more information. 6:30-8:30pm. Free.

Bunk+Brew Apres Ski Night Kick back after your slopes session every Saturday at Bunk + Brew! Enjoy good drinks, cozy vibes, and great tunes as we celebrate the ski season. Whether you’re in gear or relaxed, join us for the perfect apres ski hangout! 7-10pm. Free.

Craft Kitchen & Brewery All Things Scary & Bright Holiday Variety Show Folklore storytime, Christmas carol faves, hot cocoa and more. All Ages are welcome **Disclaimer- Spooky Content** Come for frights and leave with laughter. 7:30-9:30pm. $15.

M&J Tavern ALMOST Get your solstice on and dance during the longest night of the year! 9pm. Free.

Niblick and Greenes at Eagle Crest Live Music with Erin Cole-Baker Live music at Niblick and Greenes with Singer/songwriter Erin Cole-Baker bringing her velvety voice, timeless songwriting which explores the depth of human emotion through a mix of folk, indie, and Americana influences. 6-8pm. Free.

Never Come Down weaves together modern and traditional styles of American music. The Portland-based five-piece is joined by Bend’s Skillethead for a winter solstice music celebration in Sisters. Sat., Dec. 21, 6:30-10pm at The Belfry.

CALENDAR

Northside Bar & Grill Switchback Local 4 piece alternative and classic rock band 8-11pm. Free.

Portello Wine and Spirits Live Music: Terence Neal A talented singer/songwriter from Santa Barbara, Terence shares heartfelt originals from his album, "Something Like This," and covers favorites like J.D. Souther and Jackson Browne. Join us for an evening of soulful music, wine and cocktails, great food, and good vibes! 6:30-8:30pm. Free.

River’s Place Saturday Jazz Sessions Elise Franklin Trio. Jazz standards, beautiful vocals and some holiday favorites. 6-8pm. free.

The Commonwealth Pub Dry Canyon Stampede Dry Canyon Stampede (DCS) is a Central Oregon favorite of Country Western dance fans. From slow ballads to high energy foot-stompin’ tunes, DCS covers it all, touching on 70-plus years of great country songs. 8pm. Free.

All your monthly living expenses included in your monthly rent - Cable, phone, internet, 3 meals daily, weekly housekeeping and linen change service, water/sewer, gas, electric, scheduled transportation, in-house activity programming. Studios, 1-bedrooms, 2-bedrooms and Cottages.

Unity Community of Central Oregon Rafe Pearlman Winter Solstice Concert 2024 Join Rafe Pearlman and Daniel Berkman for a second Winter Solstice concert! Rafe’s last concert in Bend sold out, so please buy tickets early! Click below to purchase: Register: https:// unitycentraloregon.org/rafe-pearlman-winter-solstice-concert/. For more information about this event contact Clare Kubota at Clare@ UnityCentralOregon.org 541-350-8448. 6-9pm. $37.85 includes service fee.

Volcanic Theatre Pub Ugly Sweater Beer Pong Tournament w/ Karaoke Happy Winter Solstice! Celebrate the holidays with beer pong, ugly sweaters, and mainstage karaoke! Show up before 7:45pm to be considered for our first official beer pong tournament. There will be a $10 buy-in to compete solo or $15 per team. 7:30am. Free.

Wildwood Bar & Grill Winter Solstice with Souljers Rising & DJ Jah Yogi Bend’s local reggae/dub group, Souljers Rising, delivers a unique blend of infectious grooves and conscious lyrics. DJ Jah Yogi’s musical selection has been expressed in meditative sounds as he crosses the musical spectrum via Kirtan DUB, roots reggae, dancehall, Soca, Cumbia, Reggaeton, and more. 7-10pm. Free.

22 Sunday

The Commons Cafe & Taproom Trivia Night Sunday Funday Trivia with Sean. Gather your team, or roll solo and find a spot early in the cafe, knowledge tests begin at 6pm. Prizes for 1st and 2nd place. 6-8pm. Free.

River’s Place Trivia Sunday Fun at River’s Place at 12 Noon This is no average trivia, it’s Useless Knowledge Bowl! Meet up this Sunday for 12 noon start to win gift card prizes for top teams! Come play and experience what sets us apart! No fee to play. Cold beverages in the taproom, and an abundance of great food truck options. Noon-2pm. Free.

River’s Place Pete Kartsounes Ballads, blues, jazz, bluegrass, folk, and compositions that defy definition, he is best described as a story teller, weaving a tale through a soulful musical journey. 5-7pm. Free.

Silver Moon Brewing Open Mic at the Moon Get a taste of the big time! Sign-up is at 4pm! Come check out the biggest and baddest open mic night in Bend! 5-8pm. Free.

Unofficial Logging Co. Sunday Matinee Live Music Series Sunday Matinee Live Music Series presented by Unofficial Logging Co and DMM Music LLC. Every Sunday (5-7pm) beginning Nov. 3 through Feb. 2. Free admission & all ages. Come listen to some of Central Oregon’s finest! 5-7pm. Free.

Velvet Eel Sallad Band Blues-grunge from Portland. 7-9pm. Free.

23 Monday

Bevel Craft Brewing Christmas Movie Trivia Join us for Christmas Movie Trivia featuring "Love Actually," "The Muppet Christmas Carol," "Die Hard," "How the Grinch Stole Christmas" (2000 version w/ Jim Carrey), and "The Santa Clause!" 6 people max per team and its free to play! Wear your ugliest Christmas sweater for a chance at extra prizes! 6-8pm. Free.

Bevel Craft Brewing Bingo with Bren Supporting Central Oregon Veterans Ranch As we honor our veterans this month (and always), we are proud to support Central Oregon Veterans Ranch this month at Bingo with Bren! Central Oregon Veterans Ranch helps veterans develop their inner strength and find purpose by providing camaraderie and access to nature on our working ranch. 6-8pm. $2.

Bridge 99 Brewery Trivia Mondays at Bridge 99 Trivia Mondays at 6:30pm at Bridge 99 Brewery with Useless Knowledge Bowl. It’s no ordinary trivia night, Team up to win house gift cards! Great brews, cocktails, and more. Inhouse menu and food truck options available! It’s free to play. Indoor and outdoor seating available. 63063 Layton Ave, Bend. 6:30-8:30pm. Free.

Bunk+Brew Open Mic Show off your talent at Bunk + Brew’s Open Mic Night! Whether you sing, tell jokes or play an instrument, come share your creativity with the community. Enjoy drinks, great vibes and amazing local talent - everyone’s welcome to perform or enjoy the show! 7-10pm. Free.

Crux Fermentation Project Trivia Night @ Crux Trivia Night at Crux! First place team wins a $25 gift card! 6-8pm. Free.

Elixir Wine Locals Music Night and Open Mic Bend’s friendliest open-mic! All genres welcome. Oregon and international wine, beer and tapas menu available all evening. 6-9pm. Free.

JC’s Bar & Grill Free Pool + all day Happy Hour! Free pool Mondays! All-day Happy Hour, free pool with any purchase, and unbeatable deals on drinks and bites! Enjoy delicious eats, ice-cold brews, and game day vibes with football on and the sound up. Don’t miss out- Mondays just got way better! 2pm-Midnight. Free.

On Tap Locals’ Day Plus Live Music Cheaper drinks all day and live music at night, get down to On Tap. 11am-9pm. Free.

Silver Moon Brewing Beertown Comedy Open Mic Voted #1 Open Mic and Locals Night, Beertown Comedy’s Open Mic happens every Monday at Silver Moon Brewing. Free to watch and perform! Sign-ups at 6:30 PM, show at 7 PM. With 20 spots available, bring your best jokes and get noticed for paid gigs. Laughter guaranteed! 6:30-9pm. Free.

The Commonwealth Pub Monday Acoustic Open Mic Night Monday Acoustic Open Mic Night at The Commonwealth Pub Whether you’re performing original songs or acoustic covers, the stage is yours Monday nights at The Commonwealth Pub! With full sound and lights provided, just bring your instrument and get ready to shine! Sign-ups 5pm and music 6-10pm. 5pm. Free.

Velvet Bobby Lindstrom & Ed the Whistler Blues, rock and a little bit of whistlin’ too. 6-8pm. Free.

24 Tuesday

Bunk+Brew Trivia: The Four Elements Test your knowledge at Bunk + Brew’s themed trivia night this Tuesday from 7-9pm! This week’s theme: The Four Elements—Wind, Earth, Air, and Fire. Gather your team, grab some drinks, and see if you’ve got what it takes to master the elements. Fun, food, and prizes await! 7-9pm. Free.

The Cellar-A Porter Brewing Company

Open Mic Open mic at The Cellar hosted by Mari! 6-8pm and all are welcome! 6-8pm. Free.

THURSDAY, DEC 19 AT 6PM

The Commons Cafe & Taproom Storytellers 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.

Crosscut Warming Hut No 5 Head Games Trivia Night Live multi-media trivia every other Tuesday at Crosscut Warming Hut No. 5, Bend. Free to play, win prizes, teams up to 6. Please arrive early for best seats. Every other Tuesday, 6-8pm. Free.

JC’s Bar & Grill TACOS + TEQUILA TUESDAYS! Spice up your week with 3 tacos for $6.50 and amazing deals on margaritas, tequila, and Mexican beers like Corona, Pacifico, and Tecate! Special runs from open-close! Come join us every Tuesday-where the tacos are hot, and the drink specials are even hotter! 2-10pm. Free.

Mountain Burger Trivia Tuesday at Mountain Burger Come to Trivia Tuesday at Mountain Burger! Fun and prizes await! 7:30-9pm. Free.

Northside Bar & Grill Karaoke with DJ Chris Ossig Karaoke with DJ Chris. 7-9pm. Free. The Lot TRIVIA TUESDAY @ The Lot Join your trivia loving peeps on the heated benches for a fun Tuesday evening out! Six categories with six questions each. Eat. Drink. Think. Prizes from food carts and local breweries. Every Tuesday from November to end of April. 6-8pm. Free.

MUSIC

Angels and Stars: A Ukrainian Christmas Soirée Join us for “Angels and Stars: A Ukrainian Christmas Soirée” – a heartwarming evening of art, music, and tradition. Paint Vertep masks, sing kolyadky (carols), and enjoy authentic Ukrainian cuisine. Scholarships available for refugee families. Celebrate culture, community, and holiday joy together. Reserve your spot and share in the magic! Dec. 20, 5-8pm. Cafe des Chutes, 50 SE Scott St., Bend. Contact: 202-7169602. milashelehoff@gmail.com. $25-$75. Swingin’ Tower Christmas Enjoy the return of our family-friendly holiday salute to the liveliest songs and stories of the season. Host Mollie Tennant (“Cats,” “Mamma Mia,” “Les Miz”) heads a cast of local performers accompanied onstage by her husband Jim’s live 16-piece big band. Performance Sponsor: Harcourts The Garner Group. Fri, Dec. 20, 7pm, Sat, Dec. 21, 2 and 7pm and Sun, Dec. 22, 2pm. Tower Theatre, 835 NW Wall St., Bend. Contact: 541-317-0700. info@towertheatre.org. $46 - $56 (plus $6 Historic Preservation fee).

DANCE

Ballroom Dance Class - Nightclub

2-Step Learn to dance the Nightclub 2-step in a 3-week series on Wednesdays during December. Partner encouraged but not required. Beginner or intermediate level. This is a weekly progressive class. Ask someone to join in this fun, physical and brain healthy activity. This is a great dance for social events. Wednesdays, 6-7pm. Through Dec. 22. The Space, 2570 NE Twin Knolls Drive, Suite 110, Bend. Contact: 541-602-6168. valdances@hotmail.com. $10.

Line Dancing AND Swing Dancing Lessons Join us EVERY Thursday for dance lessons. Typical schedule (not guaranteed): 7pm Swing Dance Lesson (Beginner/Intermediate) BREAK 8pm Line Dance Lesson (Two dances, beginner/Intermediate) Bring yourself, bring your friends, bring your mother! Join us on the dance floor at the Cross-Eyed Cricket, Bend’s most happening spot on a Thursday night. Thursdays, 7-9pm. Through Dec. 31. Cross-Eyed Cricket, 20565 NE Brinson Blvd., Bend. Contact: swingnline@gmail.com. Free, tips appreciated.

FILM EVENTS

Papsura: Peak of Evil - Patagonia Film

Premiere Tucked deep in the Indian Himalaya is a 21,100-foot behemoth called Papsura, the face of which is split by a line so perfect and massive it pushed the skills of even the most renowned ski mountaineers. Join us for a pre-release screening of the film and meet the athletes. Dec. 20, 6:30-8:30pm. Volcanic Theatre Pub, 70 SW Century Dr., Bend. Free.

Ski Film Night Join Bunk + Brew for an evening of epic ski films! Enjoy thrilling footage, good drinks, and great company. Don’t miss out! See you there! Wednesdays, 6-9pm. Bunk+Brew, 42 NW Hawthorne Avenue, Bend. Free.

ARTS + CRAFTS

Candle Making Workshop Head to the Deschutes Brewery Tasting Room for a fun and creative event. Get into the holiday spirit by making your own personalized candles to light up your home. This event is perfect for everyone! All materials will be provided. Dec. 18, 1-6pm. Deschutes Brewery Tasting Room, 901 SW Simpson Ave., Bend. Contact: 541-382-9242. Bendpubevents@deschutesbrewery.com. $40.

Color & Knit Night Come out to Tumalo and enjoy being creative, while visiting with friends and sipping on delicious ciders, beer, wine, & N/A beverages. Coloring books, markers, crayons, etc provided or bring your own supplies. Share your love for knitted creations with like-minded folks! Light appetizers available, outside food welcome. Wed, Dec. 18, 5:30-7:30pm. Bend Cider Co., 64649 Wharton Ave., Bend. Contact: 541390-9587. Sarah1846@gmail.com. Free.

Crafts & Drafts Brewery Paint Parties

- Deer in the Snow Unleash your inner artist and join us for a fun-filled evening of Crafts & Drafts at Craft Kitchen & Brewery. Our adult paint nights are the perfect way to unwind and explore your creative side, all while enjoying delicious craft beers and good company. No experience is necessary! Dec. 19, 6-8pm. Craft Kitchen & Brewery, 62988 Layton Ave #103, Bend. Contact: 541-480-7491. sarahanneswoffer@gmail.com. $45.

ELEVATION: Photography Exhibition Elevation: Photography Exhibition features works by Beatriz Noriega, Cody Burglehaus and Nick Rasmussen curated to elevate your own space - from your living room to your business. Immerse yourself in stunning local and exotic photographs in a cozy environment while you enjoy a complimentary glass of wine. Dec. 22, Noon-8pm. Tuscany Pines Clubhouse, 63193 NW Via Toscana, Bend. Contact: 541-208-9590. elevatioevents@gmail.com. Free.

DEC 21 AT 8PM

Singer/songwriter Erin Cole-Baker brings her velvety voice and timeless songwriting to Eagle Crest Resort in Redmond. Cole-Baker’s tunes explore human emotion through a mix of folk, indie and Americana influences. Sat., Dec. 21, 6-8pm at Niblick & Greene’s at Eagle Crest.

Erin-Cole Baker Music FB

CALENDAR

Friends of Arts + Crafts Fair Fiber arts, jewelry, paintings, print/cards, paper crafts, holiday themed decorations and baked goods. Sat, Sat, Dec. 21, 10am-4pm. Discovery Park, 1315 NW Discovery Drive, Bend. Contact: 541-4801666. susanscott@gmail.com. Free.

Intro to Soldering Silver Stacked Rings

This fun and creative class introduces you to the basics of soldering and the art of creating beautiful sterling silver rings. You’ll use a torch for soldering and learn how to size, shape, and texture your rings using a ring mandrel, sizer, and various texture hammers. Take home three rings. Dec. 20, 6-8pm. DIY Cave, 444 SE Ninth St. Suite 150, Bend. Contact: 541-388-2283. classes@ diycave.com. $129.

Stained Glass Holiday Ornaments

Looking for a fun way to make your holiday season memorable? Come make a gift/ornament in our holiday stained glass class! Bring yourself and your friends in to make one-of-kind stained glass ornaments for family and friends or unique ornaments for your family’s tree. Dec. 18, 6-9pm. DIY Cave, 444 SE Ninth St. Suite 150, Bend. Contact: 541-388-2283. classes@diycave.com. $129. Three Sisters Lions Club 13th Annual Holiday Faire 38 local vendors with quality and unique crafts. Mondays-Sundays, 10am5pm. Through Dec. 21. Angela Gardinier, 141 W. Main Street, Sisters. Contact: 541-410-0896. boardstuff20@gmail.com. Free.

Where Art and Agriculture Coexist This exhibition invites you to explore the unique perspectives of artists who participated in the Pine Meadow Ranch Center for the Arts & Agriculture’s 2022 and 2023 Artist Residency programs. Wednesdays-Saturdays, 1-6pm. Through Dec. 28. Scalehouse Gallery, 550 NW Franklin Ave, Bend. Contact: 541-640-2186. info@scalehouse. org. Free.

With a Child: Hand-Painted Wood Ornaments Workshop! In this workshop, you and your child will hand-paint beautiful wood ornaments, creating unique decorations to brighten up your home for the season. Each participant will have the opportunity to paint six ornaments, ensuring plenty of holiday cheer to take home—all while leaving the mess at the studio! Dec. 18, 5-6:30pm. FREAK’N ART, 1265 NW Wall st., Bend. Contact: 541-508-7438. hellofreaknart@gmail. com. $60.

With a Child: Holiday Cookie Decorating! This delightful event is perfect for you and your child to get creative and enjoy the festive spirit. Together, you’ll decorate delicious holiday cookies, leaving with a tasty treat to enjoy at home—while we take care of the mess in the studio! Dec. 19, 5-6:30pm. FREAK’N ART, 1265 NW Wall st., Bend. Contact: 541-508-7438. hellofreaknart@gmail.com. $60.

THEATER

“Timber!” Family Christmas Eve Program “Timber!”, our annual Family Christmas Eve Program. In prior years the program was themed around the early history of Sunriver beginning with fur trappers, the Oregon Trail, and then homesteading. This year we will explore the logging and timber history. All are welcome-especially kids!! Dec. 24, 3-4pm. Sunriver Christian Fellowship, 18139 Cottonwood Road, Sunriver. Contact: 541-593-1183. info@sunriverchristianfellowship.org. Free.

Bend Burlesque presents: Winter Solstice 10-Year Anniversary Showcase The Bend Burlesque Company is turning 10-years old and you are invited to celebrate with us at our glamorous Winter Solstice Showcase! Not only are we celebrating the company’s 10-year history of sexy, subversive entertainment in Central Oregon, but also the flourishing Central Oregon performing arts community in general. Dec. 21, 8-10pm. High Desert Music Hall, 818 SW Forest Ave, Redmond. Contact: 978-771-4635. hello@bendburlesquecompany.com. $30-$80.

WORDS

MYSTERY BOOK CLUB Dec.18 we will discuss The Antique Hunter’s Guide to Murder: A Novel (Antique Hunter’s Series #1) by C.L. Miller. Dec. 18, 6-7pm. Roundabout Books, 900 NW Mount Washington Dr., #110, Bend. Contact: 541306-6564. julie@roundaboutbookshop.com. Free.

Poetry Night at Lone Pine Join for a poetry night at Lone Pine during Apèro Hours. Spoken word with an open mic option. All ages. Wine, beer, bites and of course coffee. Third Saturday of every month, 5:30-8pm. Lone Pine Coffee Roasters, 910 NW Harriman, Bend. Contact: lonepinecoffee@gmail.com. Free.

ETC.

Monday Night Football at The Commonwealth Pub! Come watch Monday night football at The Commonwealth Pub! Mondays, 5pm. Through Dec. 30. The Commonwealth Pub, 30 SW Century Drive, Suite 100, Bend. Contact: 541-668-6200. thecommonwealthpubevents@ gmail.com. Free.

NFL Sunday TIcket Watch ALL NFL games at Bangers and Brew of Redmond, Dec. 19Thursday Night football Broncos at Chargers, Saturday Dec. 21 Two games 10am Houston at KC 1:30pm game Steelers at Ravens all with sound NFL Sunday we open at 9:30am for early games with a FOOTBALL BRUNCH served to noon Dec. 19, Noon-9pm. Bangers & Brews Redmond, 827 SW 7th St, Redmond. Free.

Winter Solstice Gathering & Silent Meditation Walk Celebrate the rebirth of the sun! Short, non-religious welcome ceremony followed by silent walking meditation through the labyrinth. Meet at the fire at the labyrinth’s center boulder to share words, song and special stones. Cocoa and tea to follow. Parking details and what to bring: see sisterscommunitylabyrinth.org. Dec. 21, 6-7:15pm. Sisters Community Labyrinth, Highway 242 and W. Hood Avenue, Sisters. Contact: 503-997-0301. burningtarot@gmail.com. Free.

OUTDOOR EVENTS

Experience Winter Magic: Snowshoe with a Ranger at Walton Lake Embrace the beauty of winter and explore the Ochoco National Forest on snowshoes! Join us at Walton Lake Recreation Area for Snowshoe with a Ranger, a family-friendly event designed to connect you with nature and the expertise of our Forest specialists. Participants will enjoy a guided snowshoe hike through the serene, snowdraped forest. Along the way, Forest specialists will share insights about winter wildlife, forest ecology, and more. Dec. 21, 11am. Walton Lake Recreation Area, NF-2220, Prineville. Free.

Patagonia Worn Wear Repairs

at Mt Bachelor Does your favorite piece of clothing need a repair? To celebrate the Dirksen Derby, Patagonia’s Worn Wear team will be slingin’ free repairs—one per person, on any brand, until we hit capacity. Just bring it by their repair station at the upper level of West Village Lodge. Dec. 21, 9am-2pm and Dec. 22, 9am-1pm. Mount Bachelor Ski Resort - West Village, 13000 SW Century Dr., Bend. Free.

VOLUNTEER

Bunny Rescue Needs Volunteers

Looking for more volunteers to help with tidying bunny enclosures, feeding, watering, giving treats, head scratches, play time and fostering. All ages welcome and time commitments are flexible — weekly, monthly or fill-in. Located at the south end of Redmond. Email Lindsey with your interests and availability: wildflowerbunnylove@gmail.com. Ongoing.

Dog Adoption Event Hosted by Amazing Dogs Rescue Dog adoption event at PetSmart hosted by amazing dogs rescue. Check out adoptable dogs online at amazingdogs.org Every 2 weeks at PetSmart 11-1pm. Every other Sunday, 11am-1pm. PetSmart, 63455 N. Highway 97, Bend.

GROUPS + MEETUPS

45+ Single Mingle & Speed Dating

Join us for an evening of excitement and connection at our Single Mingle and Speed Dating event! Geared toward singles looking to make new connections, this event offers a blend of casual mingling and structured speed dating rounds. Engage in dynamic conversations, share laughter, and who knows – you might find that special connection. Dec. 20, 6-8pm. Bend Wine Bar & Winery Tasting Room. Contact: 541-3230964. $5.

Homeless Persons’ Memorial Day: A Morning of Reflection and Remembrance Join the Bethlehem Inn in Redmond as we come together to honor the lives of those who have experienced homelessness and are no longer with us. Bethlehem Inn – Redmond Campus. Dec. 21, 8am-9:15pm. Bethlehem Inn Redmond, 517 NW Birch Ave., Redmond. Contact: 541-322-8768. Free.

Singles Dating Trivia Night w/ Amber Heath Come meet other singles in a zero alcohol setting. Enjoy N/A cocktails, decadent desserts and delicious charcuterie while making meaningful connections and having fun playing trivia! Ages 30 to 50 (Female to Male Dating) pay at the door or sign up on eventbrite to save your spot. Dec. 18, 7-9pm. The Dez Lounge, 643 NW COLORADO AVE suite 2, BEND. Contact: Thedezbend@gmail.com. $10.

EVENTS + MARKETS

Beers + Photos with Santa Santa Claus is coming to Boss! $10 professional photos by Miryssa Lynne Photography, hot cocoa bar for the kiddos, festive drinks and slushies for the adults, + Linked Amore Permanent Jewelry! Dec. 22, 2-4pm. Boss Rambler Beer Club, 1009 NW Galveston Ave., Bend. Free.

Free Holiday Telescope Lessons If you already have a telescope under your tree or planning on one, stop by Expedition Club & Supply for a free lesson to make sure your first night out is a success! Free star charts and star finders for kids. Telescopes and accessories available locally for sale. Sat, Dec. 14, 11am-5pm and Sat, Dec. 21, 11am-5pm. Expedition Club & Supply, 5 NW Minnesota Ave #106, Bend. Contact: 541-2418060. hello@expeditionclub.co. Free.

Holiday Spirit Market hosted by Justicia Healing + Groove Yoga Celebrate the magic of the holiday season at the 2nd Annual Holiday Spirit Market! Immerse yourself in a curated collection of locally made treasures. Gifting with heart takes on a whole new meaning as you explore unique offerings, each infused with intention, warmth, and the spirit of the holiday season. Dec. 21, 10:30am-4:30pm. Groove Yoga, 1740 NW Pence Ln, Bend. Free.

The Longest Night Not everyone is happy and cheerful this time of year. The Longest Night is a service offering safe and sacred space for those for whom this season is anything but merry or bright. Please join us and invite others you know who are struggling this time of year. Dec. 18, 7-8pm. First Presbyterian Bend, 230 Northeast 9th Street, Bend. Contact: 541-382-4401. emiller@bendfp.org. Free. Santa’s Workshop At Santa’s Workshop, we aim to spread the spirit of giving, joy, and imagination. We believe that the holidays are more than just gifts—they’re about creating memories, building connections, and fostering the magic of the season. Dec. 21, 3-6pm. Juniper Preserve, 65600 Pronghorn Club Dr., Bend. Contact: 866-320-5024. $35-$45. Wintervention - Redmond - Wild Ride Brewing It’s the biggest yard sale ever… The Northwest’s deepest snow series giveaway and it’s coming to a venue near you. Get geared up this season as we dump 100K in prizes including lift tickets, gear, skis, boards and more. Free for all ages… and a ton of fun for the whole family! Compete in SNOlympics, take a whack at Winter Trivia and throw down Snowballers Bingo with us to help raise scholarship funds for SNOWDAYS Foundation! Hosted by your favorite radio personalities, Harold the Hodag and his friends Yeti and Sas. Thu, Dec. 19, 6-8pm. Wild Ride Brewing, 332 SW Fifth St., Redmond. Free.

FAMILY + KIDS

Howlidays Saturday Screenings: The Grinch Enjoy our Howlidays: Saturday Screenings with a showing of the Grinch on our projected screen. Also, enjoy seasonal hot beverages and snacks to bring in the holiday season! Movie starts at 6pm. Dec. 21, 6pm. Ponch’s Place, 62889 NE Oxford Ct., Bend. Free.

Krav Maga Class Self Defense Techniques for Men and Women of all ages and teens. Learn how to defend against a variety of attacks (punch, kick, choke etc) and weapons (guns, knives, clubs). Classes are held Tuesday to Friday evening and Saturday Morning. First class is free. Saturdays, 10-11am. Cascadia Krav Maga, 2525 Twin Knolls Rd #9,, Bend. Contact: 541223-9953. tim@cascadiakravmaga.com. Free.

Mini Gingerbread Decorating Join us any time between 2:30-4pm and decorate a mini “gingerbread house” made from graham crackers. Suggested donation (not required): Bring along a non-perishable food item to help feed someone in need this season. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Dec. 18, 2:30-4pm. First Presbyterian Bend, 230 Northeast 9th Street, Bend. Contact: 541-382-4401. bellis@bendfp.org. Free.

Local guitar shredder Eric Leadbetter is known for his eclectic music, blending a variety of genres — with tunes influenced by classic rock, old soul music, blues and funk. Wed., Dec. 18, 6-8pm at Crosscut Warming Hut.

Leadbetter Band FB

CALENDAR EVENTS

S’mores & Pours Bring the whole family to Cascade Lakes Brewing for a cozy evening by the fire! We’re serving up fun by the fire with a complimentary s’mores bar for all to enjoy. Purchase a pint to receive a roasting stick, then create your perfect s’more. Happening at both CLBC pubs. Every third Saturday, 5-7pm. Through March 22. Cascade Lakes Pub on Reed Market, 21175 SE Reed Market Road Lot #2, Bend. Contact: 458836-7866. jesse@cascadelakes.com. Free.

Santa Meet & Greet Bring the kids and come meet and take pictures with Santa Claus! Dec. 20, 4-6pm. Craft Kitchen & Brewery, 62988 Layton Ave #103, Bend. Free.

Traditional Christmas Eve Service

The Traditional Christmas Eve Service will take place at 6pm on Tuesday the 24th. Special music and traditional carols will support the message from our new pastor, Reverend Kally Elliott. All are welcome to the communion table as we celebrate. Dec. 24, 6-7pm. Sunriver Christian Fellowship, 18139 Cottonwood Road, Sunriver. Contact: 541-593-1183. info@sunriverchristianfellowship.org. Free.

Winter Break Survival Camp Ages 9-12. Join us for this one-day outdoor winter break camp. We’ll focus on winter survival skills like firecraft, shelter making and more. We’ll play nature games and tell stories and keep warm by the fire, as well. Dec. 23, 9am-3pm. Bend, RSVP for address, Bend. Contact: info@nighthawknaturalistschool.com. $80.

Winter Break: Snow Castle Sculptors

In our Snow Castle Sculptors camp, kids will discover how to build snow shelters and explore how snow’s natural insulation makes it perfect for crafting survival shelters. With hands-on activities and creative design, they’ll experience the art and science of constructing sturdy snow castles. Registration open through website. Dec. 23, 9am-3:45pm. Powell Plains, 62800 Powell Butte Highway, Bend. Contact: 541-625-0273. info@wildheartnatureschool.com. $77.

Winter Nights: Paws and Paint Attention animal lovers! Hightail it to the Museum after dark for watercolor crafts, a look at our new exhibition from artist Hilary Baker—who will be here to greet you—a Museum scavenger hunt, cookie decorating and more. Animal-themed outfits are highly encouraged. Be sure to RSVP! Dec. 19, 4-7:30pm. High Desert Museum, 59800 S. Highway 97, Bend. Contact: 541-382-4754. info@ highdesertmuseum.org. Adults/Member Guests $10 w/RSVP, $12 at the door. Age 3-12 $6.

Board & Ski Wax Night Head to Crux where we’ll have the Between Evergreens mobile tuning van on site offering waxes and tunes from 4-8pm. As your gear gets tuned, relax with a pint (or two) while we play your favorite ski and snowboard movies inside on the big screen! Dec. 19, 4-8pm. Crux Fermentation Project, 50 SW Division St., Bend. Free.

Boneyard Pub’s Naughty or Nice Bottle Share Come join us at Boneyard Pub’s Naughty or Nice Bottle Share for a fun night of rare beers , shared favorites and good friends! Dec. 21, 7-10pm. Boneyard Pub, 1955 NE Division St., Bend. Contact: 541-241-7184. chasen@ boneyardpub.com. $25.

Christmas Eve Open House at Maragas Winery An old fashioned Christmas Tradition at our Central Oregon Winery. Cozy and festive surroundings, paired with a cup of mulled wine, spiced Popcorn, and live Christmas Carols. It’s all complimentary from our winery, all that we ask is a $10 minimum donation, 100% collected for the NeighborImpact food bank. Dec. 24, 11am3pm. Maragas Winery, 15523 SW Hwy 97, Culver. Contact: 541-546-5464. info@maragaswinery. com. Free.

Winter Solstice Celebration at The Pavilion Bend Park and Recreation District’s ice rink will celebrate the shortest day of the year with a Winter Solstice Celebration. Attendees are encouraged to bring a non-perishable food donation for NeighborImpact Food Bank to receive a discounted fee of $7, including skate rental. Featuring Bend Ice Figure Skating show. Dec. 20, 6-8:30pm. The Pavilion, 1001 SW Bradbury Way, Bend. Contact: 541-389-7588. info@bendparksandrec.org. $7.

FOOD + DRINK

“Last Minute” Christmas Makers Market Need a last minute gift or super rad stocking stuffers? Stop by the Pub for a pint and good eats, support local and check out some Central Oregon Makers! Dec. 20, 1-7pm. Boneyard Pub, 1955 NE Division St., Bend. Contact: 541-241-7184. Free.

Christmas Eve Dinner Enjoy a special Christmas Eve Tasting Menu Dinner at Juniper Preserve. Dec. 24, 5-7:30pm. Juniper Preserve, 65600 Pronghorn Club Dr., Bend. Contact: 866-320-5024. guest.services@juniperpreserve.com. $95.

Yule Feast Celebrate the return of the Sun! Join us for a Yuletide Feast on the Winter Solstice to celebrate one another and the lengthening of the days. Dec. 21, 6-11pm. Pangaea Guild Hall, 652 SW 6th St., Redmond. $30 (plus fees).

BEER + DRINK

12 Days of Holiday Deals at Viaggio Wine Merchant A different delightful bargain offering each day through Christmas Eve. Check our website or Instagram for the daily discount and enjoy 15% off mixed half cases (6 bottles) or 20% off mixed full cases (12 bottles) every day through the entire holiday season. Additional specials on Christmas Eve 12-4pm! , Wed, Dec. 18, 3-8pm, Thu, Dec. 19, Noon-9pm, Fri, Dec. 20, Noon-9pm, Sat, Dec. 21, Noon-9pm, Sun, Dec. 22, 2-8pm, Mon, Dec. 23, 3-8pm and Tue, Dec. 24, Noon-4pm. Viaggio Wine Merchant, 210 SW Century Drive, Suite 160, Bend. Contact: 541-2995060. info@viaggiowine.com. Varies by purchase. Bend Christmas Eve Celebration Christmas Eve-Eve-eve-etc. party from 5-9 pm with a special appearance from Freeland Founder, Jill Kuehler!! Live DJ, boozy hot cocoa, Christmas cookies, and free treats for those that dress up in the holiday spirit! Jill will also have a special cocktail she is making herself and is signing bottles! Dec. 21, 5-9pm. Freeland Spirits Tasting Room, 550 SW Industrial Way Suite 190, Bend. Contact: 541-593-0129. Free.

Double Bubble Bars at Viaggio Wine Merchant We’re having double the Bubble Bars this month to bookend the Christmas holiday, so come explore the world of champagne! Special 3-glass flights each weekend. We’re also bringing back our caviar bites (until sold out) every weekend between now and the New Year. Celebrate with us - you deserve it! Fri, Dec. 20, Noon-9pm, Sat, Dec. 21, Noon-9pm, Sun, Dec. 22, 2-8pm, Mon, Dec. 23, 3-8pm. Viaggio Wine Merchant, 210 SW Century Drive, Suite 160, Bend. Contact: 541-299-5060. info@viaggiowine.com. Varies by purchase.

Football, Family, FUN Family Friendly Sports Bar Join us for Monday Night Football come cheer on our Green Bay Packers vs New Orlean Saints with sound, all fans welcome come enjoy 20+ artisan sausages, Wisconsin cheese curds, Banger Smash Burger, our famous Banger and Mash, craft beers and cocktails. Game starts at 5:15pm. Dec. 23, Noon-9pm. Bangers & Brews Redmond, 827 SW 7th St, Redmond. Free.

Holiday Caviar Set Ups We’ve done the work for you and curated an exquisite Caviar Setup for your holiday entertaining. Perfect for four and customizable, the set includes 1 oz of caviar, a bottle of bubbles, 2 caviar spoons and crème fraîche to top it all off. Stop by or email to reserve yours! Tuesdays-Sundays, 3-9pm. Through Dec. 24. Viaggio Wine Merchant, 210 SW Century Drive, Suite 160, Bend. Contact: 541-299-5060. info@viaggiowine.com. $169.

HEALTH + WELLNESS

Holiday Family Sound Bath Gather for a joy-focused and stress-free holiday experience for the whole family, young and old! Dec. 23, 6-7:30pm. Hanai Center, 62430 Eagle Road, Bend. Contact: 850-832-5703. align45llc@ yahoo.com. $25-$40.

Winter Solstice Ritual + Sound Bath Sound Bath Journey and Ritual celebrating light over darkness. Winter Solstice: the sun’s light shines on the Earth for the shortest time, asking our collective light to shine more brightly. Be guided through a winter solstice ritual, then lay down and enjoy the sounds of crystal bowls and a gong. Dec. 22, 7-8:15pm. Bend Hot Yoga, 1230 NE 3rd St. UnitA230, Bend. Contact: yoga@ bendhotyoga.com. $25.

Yule Sound Circle Join us for an evening of deep reflection, sacred sound, and community connection at the Yule Sound Circle - a ritual gathering that honors the Winter Solstice and the energies of Yule — the longest night of the year and the rebirth of the sun. Dec. 19, 6:30-8pm. Hanai Center, 62430 Eagle Road, Bend. Contact: 503-621-8907. devon@ spellbound-sounds.com. $35.

Lindsay Clark shares her dreamy music at The Suttle Lodge’s Fireside Concert Series. Clark finds a balance between folk and country music in her songwriting process. Thu., Dec. 19 at The Suttle Lodge & Boathouse.

Lindsay Clark FB

Purchase a $300 gift card and receive a gift certificate for a free room night. Available for purchase at the Front Desk, Merchant Trader Gift Shop, The Spa, Cove Aquatic Center, and at the Forest House at Caldera Springs Limited time offer. Subject to availability.

GUNG HO

By Chris Young

Rafe Pearlman Brings Light on the Darkest Day

On this year’s winter solstice, the Pacific Northwest artist will share a new song inspired by his time in Bend

Originally from the wilds of Alaska, singer/songwriter Rafe Pearlman now resides on Washington’s Orcas Island. With these locales as his backdrop, it’s not hard to understand why Mother Nature is so instrumental in Pearlman’s work. As he’s traveled the globe playing shows in India, Europe, Australia, Hong Kong and Mexico, he’s also traversed these United States — including a stop in Bend last year. His 2023 visit even inspired an appropriately titled song, “Bend.”

“It was my first time getting to experience Bend — seeing the beautiful Deschutes River running right through town, I was instantly charmed,” Pearlman says. He sought out Tumalo Falls, “and once again the river magic was just really working with me. I live on Orcas Island, Washington, currently, and there’s no river energy there to connect with so I was really soaking it in.”

Oregon on Saturday, Dec. 21. On the darkest day of the year, Pearlman plans to light up the room with “some fun group singing with our audience. These creative vocal moments together are the goods! It really takes it out of the artists ‘performing’ into more [of] a bonding community experience,” he explains.

“One of the solstice-inspired things we’re planning on is bring ing the lights down low and into darkness for a moment togeth er in silence to hon or the darkest night of the year and the returning of the light. We’ll sing something together to symbolize calling forth the light into our lives, most like ly a piece of my song ‘Sunna,’ which is inspired by the Nordic name for the sun. This experience will be made complete while sharing a candle lighting ceremony together.”

That evening, “I got home to where we were staying; we were right next to the trails of Sawyer Park. We sat on the river rocks among the willows, soaked up some sun and jumped into the water. When I was a kid growing up in the wilderness of Alaska on the Nowitna and Yukon rivers, I used to make all sorts of little, fun things out of riverside willows. So when I got back to the house and saw a ukulele sitting in the corner, I picked it up and the song ‘Bend’ came out. I had never owned a ukulele before but figured out a few simple chords and started singing.”

“Oh you gotta Bend like a willow so you don’t break, Oh you know in life you gonna make plenty mistakes. You gonna fall down the mountain, I hope you don’t break your back. Just dust yourself off and get right back on track.

And come down to the river and sing, Jump into the water, come clean…”

The just-released, upbeat, uke-filled tune is a timely preview of Pearlman’s winter solstice appearance at Bend’s Unity Spiritual Community of Central

Pearlman will be joined by Jason Krivo Flores from Portland on bass and multi-instrumentalist Daniel Berk man, a San Francisco-based artist who will play “kora (African harp), Ondo mo (the first synthesizer ever made in 1928) and percussion,” he says. Berk man will also open the evening.

“Bend” is the first track that Pearl man has finished from a batch of fresh recordings, “which will eventually turn into a new record for 2025,” he tells. Smith Rock is the inspiration for the single’s artwork, another “must-see” place he visited: “It blew my mind,” he says. “It was like stepping into an ancient world; I couldn’t believe it existed and I had never heard about it before. In fact, on top of the epic rocks there, another song came, called ‘High Country,’ that I hope to record and release next year.”

Winter Solstice Concert: Rafe Pearlman

With Daniel Berkman Sat., Dec. 21, 6pm doors, 6:30pm show Unity Spiritual Community of Central Oregon 63645 Scenic Dr., Bend tickets.brightstarevents.com/event/ rafe-pearlman-daniel-berkman-winter-solstice-eventkemreqh $35

11am - 9pm, Monday - Saturday

SatyaCurcio

Elevate These Classic Comfort Dishes

This recipe for tri-tip fried rice works because steak makes everything better, plus a one-dish wonder

By Megan Baker

Both of these recipies previously appeared in our Cascades Eats E-Newsletter. If you want to get more exclusive foodie content, subscribe at bendsource.com/bend/Newsletters/Page

Tri-Tip Fried Rice

Some might raise an eyebrow at using tritip in fried rice, which is traditionally made with cheaper cuts or leftover meats. Being from Maui, it’s a go-to for using leftovers in our ohana. In times when we need a little extra comfort, elevating a classic comfort dish just feels better. Plus, steak levels up a casual weeknight staple into a meal that feels like self-care in a skillet. This recipe combines tri-tip steak with jasmine rice, garlic and a rainbow of veggies, brought together with sesame oil and oyster sauce for an umami flavor you’ll crave again soon.

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds tri-tip steak

• 3-4 tablespoons butter

• 6 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 red onion, diced

• 2 carrots, diced

• 1 cup frozen peas

• 6 eggs, beaten

• 3-4 cups cooked jasmine rice (cooled)

• 1-2 tablespoons sesame oil

• 2 tablespoons oyster sauce

• 4-5 green onions, sliced

Instructions:

Salt/pepper and sear tri-tip in butter until desired doneness. Rest, then slice thinly.

In the same pan, sauté garlic and red onion in butter and sesame oil until fragrant.

Add carrots and peas, push to edges. Then scramble eggs and mix everything together.

Add rice, oyster sauce and sesame oil. Stir to combine.

Fold in sliced tri-tip and top with green onions.

Serve hot with soy sauce or crunchy garlic chili sauce on the side — or add kimchi for an extra tang.

The Big Tuna-Rific Crunch Casserole

TPhotos by Megan Baker

his one-dish wonder packs protein, veggies and comfort all into one irresistible meal. Don’t be surprised when the entire 11x17 casserole dish disappears into thin air — my boys always come back for thirds! The crowning glory is a perfectly crunchy potato chip crust that’ll have everyone fighting for the crispy corners. Kid-approved, this all-in-one meal will please.

Main Ingredients:

• 1 (12 ounce) package egg noodles

• 2 (10 ½ ounce) cans condensed cream of mushroom soup

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

• 1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese

• 1 ball mozzarella, pulled apart

• 2 large cans white albacore tuna, drained

• 2 handfuls potato chips, hand-crushed

• Splash of milk for extra creaminess

Add-Ins:

• 1 cup frozen green peas (no need to thaw)

• 1 can green chilies

• 5 stalks celery, diced

• ½ can black olives, diced

• ½ onion, thinly sliced

• 6 cloves garlic, minced

• Pepperoncini, to taste (chopped or sliced)

Instructions:

Preheat oven to 425°F while you’re bringing the noodles to a rapid boil in a large pot with salted water (it should taste like the ocean!). Cook for 1 to 2 minutes LESS than package suggests — al dente, drain and cool down with water.

Combine noodles with all ingredients except potato chips and stir until well combined. Transfer mixture to a sprayed 11x17-inch baking dish, spreading evenly. Then top with crushed potato chips.

Oven should be ready for you to bake for 15 to 20 minutes, being sure to keep an eye on the chips — they can burn quickly!

By Savannah Mendoza

Warm Up This Winter: Bend’s Coziest Coffee Creations

From eggnog lattes to sugar cookie delights, these local cafes are brewing up

holiday magic

As frost coats the windows and the scent of pine fills the air, nothing feels more comforting than wrapping your hands around a steaming cup of coffee. Bend’s coffee shops have fully embraced the holiday spirit, trading their pumpkin spice staples for festive flavors like peppermint, eggnog and sugar cookie sweetness. From classic indulgences to creative twists, these cafes are serving up warmth and cheer in every cup.

The Pantry: Peppermint Patty Mocha

Nestled across from Newport Avenue Market, The Pantry is a local gem known for its crafted drinks, pasties and eco-friendly goods. With its unique combination of bulk food refills, curated retail space and cozy coffee bar, The Pantry has become a staple in the neighborhood.

This winter, the peppermint patty mocha takes center stage. Made with Still Vibrato espresso, Seahorse Chocolate, peppermint and tulsi, it’s finished with a sprinkle of peppermint sugar on top — a drink as festive as it is flavorful.

Thump Coffee: Eggnog Latte

With three locations in Bend, Thump Coffee is a go-to for locals and visitors alike. Known for its house-made syrups and pastries, Thump offers a welcoming atmosphere at each of its cafes. The York Cafe, in particular, shines with its roastery and bakery, inviting indoor seating and outdoor fireplaces perfect for brisk winter days.

This holiday season, Thump’s menu features an eggnog latte, which can be customized with the cafe’s signature brown sugar-cinnamon syrup. Pair it with a chocolate-peppermint scone — a rich treat with dark chocolate and refreshing peppermint. Together, they create the perfect cozy indulgence for a snowy afternoon.

Boss Coffee: Sugar Cookie Latte

On Galveston Avenue in River West, Boss Coffee offers a fresh twist on Bend’s coffee scene. The minimalist, SoCal-inspired cafe doubles as a beer club, creating a relaxed yet lively vibe that’s perfect for warming up after a day on the slopes.

This holiday season, Boss Coffee features a sugar cookie latte. With a blend of sugar, spice and everything nice, this drink captures the spirit of fresh-baked holiday cookies in a cup.

This winter, Thump Coffee’s seasonal specials feature an eggnog latte and a chocolate-peppermint scone.

Made with Still Vibrato espresso, Seahorse Chocolate, peppermint, tulsi and a sprinkle of peppermint sugar on top, the peppermint patty mocha takes center stage at The Pantry.

’Tis the season for a sugar cookie latte made with the perfect blend of sugar, spice and everything nice... in a cup.

Courtesy The Pantry IG

Boss Rambler Coffee IG

Thump Coffee Bend FB

Must make a donation of

• 100% of your donation will go directly to the local nonprofit of your choice.

• You know your donation will be used to support YOUR community.

• You’ll receive a special thank you offer from one of our sponsors.

• A total of $30k in awards will be given to the participating nonprofits.

There Goes My Antihero Sony hunts and kills its own franchise with "Kraven"

By Jared Rasic

Sometimes, a movie gets released that’s so bad you know someone at the studio lost their job, and the filmmaker will probably end up in director’s jail for a few years. When that same studio releases three movies in the same universe that are so insanely, preposterously stupid (while also hemorrhaging money) that they become instantly meme’d to the point of full cultural saturation… then they’re in the situation that Sony finds itself in right now. It’s pretty hilarious.

Sony owns the rights to Spider-Man, so starting with Andrew Garfield’s “The Amazing Spider-Man,” it had planned to build a shared universe after witnessing the success Marvel Studios was having with Iron Man, Captain America, Thor and The Avengers. But after the flop of “The Amazing Spider-Man 2,” Sony decided to rent out the wall crawler to Marvel (which got us the Tom Holland Spidey movies) and then pivoted to using Spider-Man’s rogues gallery to launch the new Sony’s Spider-Man Universe. It was a decent idea that has been executed incredibly, job-losingly poorly.

In the SSU, we were “gifted” six movies since 2018. Three of those movies were the “Venom” trilogy, which are pretty fun, feature a wonderfully unhinged performance from Tom Hardy and, compared to the other three movies in the SSU, are downright masterpieces. The Jared Leto stinker “Morbius” came in 2022 along with the “It’s Morbin Time” meme, which I suppose justifies the film’s existence but still doesn’t make it a watchable movie. However, 2024 has been the worst for the beleaguered Sony. First came the hilariously terrible “Madame Web,” which feels made by people who have never seen a movie before, but also gave us Dakota Johnson’s forever iconic line reading of: “He was in the Amazon with my mom when she was researching spiders right before she died.”

Last weekend saw the release of “Kraven the Hunter,” the sixth (and almost certainly final) entry into Sony’s Spider-Man Universe — a movie so terrible that not only is it easily the worst of the series, but it wasn’t even terrible in an interesting enough way to generate a single meme, let alone be worthy of a serious film discussion.

It’s boring, filled with sub-2007 special effects, has bad action scenes (which is the one thing it kinda needed to get right) and is sporting one of the worst scripts I’ve ever had the displeasure of sitting through.

In the comics, Kraven is an insanely rich Russian biggame hunter who becomes obsessed with hunting Spider-Man, considering him to be the most dangerous game of all. In the first comic book I ever bought (all the way back in 1987), Kraven shoots Spidey with a tranquilizer and buries him alive for two weeks. It’s one of the best Spider-Man stories of all time and cements Kraven as one of the deadliest villains the web-slinger has ever crossed.

So, imagine my surprise while watching the film when we learn that Kraven’s characteristics of being rich and Russian are the only things he has in common with his comic counterpart. In the SSU, Kraven the character is actually a conservationist, protecting animals and only hunting bad guys to murder them. Technically, he’s a serial killer, but they play him as a total hero (not even a little anti), protecting animals, women and children like it’s going out of style, while still murdering hundreds of armed and unarmed villains in cold blood.

Honestly, the movie has nothing to do with the comics but, even if it did, that wouldn’t have made it

“Kraven” has nothing to do with the comics but, even if it did, that wouldn’t have made it any better. You can tell director J. C. Chandor had no interest in the character, and Aaron TaylorJohnson (even with swagger to spare) sleepwalks through the role, just focusing on cool poses and looking shredded.

any better. You can tell director J. C. Chandor had no interest in the character, and Aaron Taylor-Johnson (even with swagger to spare) sleepwalks through the role, just focusing on cool poses and looking shredded. He’s thirsty to play James Bond and that thirst is self-evident in every frame of the film.

While Sony managed to knock it out of the park with the animated “Spider-Verse” films (which it will ride until the wheels fall off), “Kraven the Hunter” is so terrible that it seems like the SSU is as buried as Spider-Man was after crossing paths with Kraven in the comics — and that’s a good thing. As fun as it is to make fun of horrible schlock, I would much rather watch something that enriches my heart and mind… or at least can explode things in cool ways for 90 minutes. I’m an easy mark. But not this easy.

Kraven the Hunter

Dir. J. C. Chandor

Grade: F

Now playing at Regal Old Mill, Redmond Cinemas

How many abs make a movie worth watching? Is it this many?

Sony

A Truly Adaptable Fish Lahontan cutthroat trout are a paragon of adaptation and legacy of the Pleistocene

By Scott Bowler

Cutthroat trout, Oncorhynchus clarkii ssp., is the most widespread species of the Salmonidae family in western North America. Populations occur from southern Alaska to northern California, on both sides of the Continental Divide and throughout the Great Basin — an area close to 210,000 square miles and one of the driest, yet most diverse, landscapes in the United States. During Pleistocene times, an era over 12,000 years ago known as the last Ice Age, the environment was vastly different in the Great Basin. This was a period categorized by water and ice, with massive rain-fed lakes covering about 25% of the area, including some in Oregon. Lake Bonneville, covering some 20,000 square miles (close to the size of present-day Lake Michigan) was the largest, while Lake Lahontan covered an

impressive 8,500 square miles. It is in Lake Lahontan and its connected waters that Oncorhynchus clarkii henshawi, Lahontan cutthroat trout, evolved.

There, Lahontan cutthroat trout developed to huge sizes — up to 42 inches and 50 pounds — spawning in its many tributaries and feeding on abundant prey. Indigenous people in the area relied heavily on Lahontan cutthroat trout and their prey species, the Tui chub. The sustainable fishery annually produced an estimated one million pounds of fish.

Beginning in the early 1800s, human activities and other factors began to take a toll on Great Basin fish. The climate warmed and dried, and waters evaporated and became more alkaline. Habitats shrank and fragmented. As a response, isolated populations of fish adapted into the many species, sub-species, varieties and strains that occur today.

Climate change, overfishing, dams, over-allocated water, development and other factors eventually led to an early listing of Lahontan cutthroat trout as a federally endangered species. This status was later modified to threatened

to accommodate management options. Today, only 10% of the trout’s original habitat range remains.

Lahontan cutthroat trout are a truly adaptable fish, responding to dramatic differences in water salinity, temperature, human-caused disturbances and sheer loss of habitat. Today, there are scattered populations of the stream-dwelling varieties occurring in the suitable habitats remaining in the Great Basin. These riverine fish are, in response to challenging conditions, much smaller than the lake variety, maturing at 6 to 12 inches and about 1 pound. In eastern Oregon, some populations are established in their ancestral Alvord Lake basin, in streams draining from Steens Mountain and the Pueblo Mountains, as well as in several streams flowing from the Trout Creek and Oregon Canyon mountains. There are also populations in streams in and around the McDermitt Caldera along the Oregon-Nevada border.

If the McDermitt Caldera rings a bell, that’s because it’s been in the news lately as a potential source of critical minerals, especially lithium. During the

aforementioned Pleistocene times, the caldera was filled with a large shallow lake. Today, only a few isolated streams flow down from the highlands into the basin, in some cases drying up as they reach the lowest level of the caldera. The few miles of stream that do remain contain some highly adaptable, and quite important, remnant populations of Lahontan cutthroat trout. These fish already live a very precarious existence, and the proposed development in the caldera add new complications, and serious threats, for the fish.

Someone famous once remarked that when tinkering with anything, it’s best to save all the pieces. Oncorhynchus clarkii henshawi have proven themselves to be tough, adaptable survivors for many millennia — but they need viable habitat to persist. It’s up to us to save the pieces.

—Scott Bowler is a retired science educator and volunteer with Oregon Natural Desert Association, a nonprofit organization that protects and restores Oregon’s high desert public lands and waters.

John Aylward

Lahontan cutthroat trout populations rely on McDermitt Creek, located in the McDermitt Caldera, to survive.

Lahontan cutthroat trout.

By Savannah Mendoza

Dirksen Derby Rally Race Returns to

Mt. Bachelor For Year 17

Snowboarders and sit-skiers gear up for a weekend of thrilling races, camaraderie and community spirit

Lovers of snow and speed get ready:

The Dirksen Derby rally race is carving its way back to Mt. Bachelor this winter for its 17th year, promising thrills, camaraderie and high-speed action. The celebrated event unites snowboarders and sit-ski enthusiasts of all ages and abilities for a weekend of exciting races and community spirit. Participants will navigate tight turns and steep descents on hand-crafted slalom courses, all set against Mt. Bachelor’s alpine backdrop.

The Dirsken Derby has come a long way since its first race on Dec. 1, 2007. What began with just 58 racers and three divisions has grown into a beloved annual tradition. The inaugural event raised $1,160 for Tyler Eklund, a local snowboarder who was seriously injured in a competition eight months earlier. Today, the derby is a cornerstone of the snow sports calendar, raising over $300,000 last year for nonprofits and community members in need.

This year’s Dirksen Derby takes place on Saturday, Dec. 21 and Sunday, Dec. 22, from 9am to 4pm. The event invites everyone, from seasoned pros to the youngest “groms,” to test their skills on the same challenging course.

“The Dirksen Derby has become a staple season kickoff for the snow sports community,” said Presley Quon,

GRATEFUL 8 PASS

Specialty Reader Pass

8 classes for $68, our lowest-priced pass available anywhere!

The Grateful 8 pass to winter wellness can be applied to 8 in-studio and online classes. These classes expire 3 months from the date of purchase.

communications manager at Mt. Bachelor. “This will be Mt. Bachelor’s 17th year hosting the event. Recent snowfall is setting the stage for a great course this year. Riders and spectators alike are in for a fun weekend.”

Racers are divided into heats on Saturday and Sunday, with categories like “Mini-Shred,” “Older & Wiser,” “Yogis” and “Elite Legends.” Last year’s event featured 16 racing events and over 5,000 competitors.

Beyond the races, the Dirksen Derby weekend is packed with festivities.

On Thursday, Dec. 19, the fun begins at Tactics in downtown Bend with a kickoff party, where participants can pick up posters and design their own T-shirts. On Friday, Dec. 20, the highly anticipated snowboarding film, “Papsura: Peak of Evil,” will premiere at the Volcanic Theatre Pub. Throughout the weekend, Patagonia’s Worn Wear program will be on-site at Mt. Bachelor, offering free clothing repairs to keep snow lovers warm and sustainable on the slopes.

Dirksen Derby Sat., Dec. 21-Sun., Dec. 22 Mt. Bachelor 13000 SW Century Dr., Bend dirksenderby.com

This holiday, give the gift of play, fitness or just pure joy!

BPRD gift certificates are available in an amount you choose and redeemable for recreation center passes, food and beverage items, or any BPRD recreation program.

Learn more about recreation opportunities at bendparksandrec.org

A snowboarder tucks into a tight turn during a past Dirksen Derby rally race.

Dirksen Derby IG

is a Libra

48.  ___ Draven (the Crow)

50.  "I'm gonna have to think about this"

57.  Firmly opposed

58.  Words to live by

59.  Impressed crowd sounds

60.  Shooting match?

61.  Mononymic musician whose last name is Chryssomallis

62.  "So much this meme"

63.  Lively

64.  His number 24 was retired by both the Mets and Giants

65.  Miss on a loch

By Brendan Emmett Quigley

Pearl’s Puzzle

Puzzle for the week of December 16, 2024

Difficulty Level: ●●●○

DOWN

1.  Egomaniac's love

2.  Hunter's target

3.  Brand with Cinnamon Churro and Chocolatey Chip Banana flavors

4.  Divining rod, with an insect name

5.  Hummus company

6.  "Father of the string quartet"

7.  Not duped by

8.  Poems about heroic deeds

9.  French horn part

10.  Penguin Sidney

11.  Gambled

12.  Party animal-men?

15.  I'm, in Oaxaca

21.  It chose "brain rot" as the 2024 Word of the Year: Abbr.

22.  Water holders

25.  Royal circle

26.  Fool on the Hill, for short

27.  Alter ego

28.  Give a little

29.  Singer Jackson

32.  Top spot

33.  Unaccompanied

34.  Was a successful petroleum geologist

36.  Wipe out

37.  Cartoony shriek

38.  Flour that is flavored with caraway

41.  Garden variety lunches?

42.  Agreement before the wedding

43.  More in shape

45.  Grammable thing

47.  Charles's daughter on "A Man on the Inside"

48.  Piano key wood

49.  "Caddyshack" director

51.  Like those in the out crowd

52.  Big test

53.  WNBA star ___ Charles

54.  Mirai maker

55.  Electrical units

56.  Puts into service

Fill in every row, column, and 3x3 box with each of the letters B E N

R O exactly once.

The highlighted letters read left to right and top to bottom will complete the quote: ”One thing I learned from drinking is that if you ever go Christmas caroling, you should go with a group of people. And also go .”

author unknown

ANSWER TO LAST WEEK'S PUZZLES

exactly once. The highlighted letters read left to right and top to bottom will ”One thing I learned from drinking is that if you ever go Christmas go with a group of people. And also go .” - author unknown Answer for the

V G B T I R E N H

E R H G B N T I V

“Never lend your car to anyone to whom you have given birth.” —Erma Bombeck

Answer for the week of December 9, 2024 “Never lend your car to anyone to whom you have given birth ” - Erma Bombeck

ASTROLOGY

By Rob Brezsny

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): What is the perfect gift I could offer you this holiday season? I have decided on a large square black box with nothing inside. There would be a gold ribbon around it bearing the words, "The Fruitful Treasure of Pregnant Emptiness." With this mysterious blessing, I would be fondly urging you to purge your soul of expectations and assumptions as you cruise into 2025. I would be giving you the message, “May you nurture a freewheeling voracity for novel adventures and fresh experiences.”

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): One of my paramount wishes for you in 2025 is this: You will deepen your devotion to taking good care of yourself. You will study and learn more about the sweet secrets to keeping yourself in prime mental and physical health. I’m not suggesting you have been remiss about this sacred work in the past. But I am saying that this will be a favorable time to boost your knowledge to new heights about what precisely keeps your body and emotions in top shape. The creative repertoire of self-care that you cultivate in the coming months will serve you well for the rest of your long life.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): To fulfill your life mission, to do what you came here to earth to do, you must carry out many tasks. One of the most important is to offer your love with hearty ingenuity. What are the best ways to do that? Where should you direct your generous care and compassion? And which recipients of your blessings are likely to reciprocate in ways that are meaningful to you? While Jupiter is cruising through Gemini, as it is now and until June 2025, life will send you rich and useful answers to these questions. Be alert!

green, grey, blue, and brown. It's never the same shape. Its curves and width are constantly shifting. Among the birds that enhance its beauty are mallards, sandpipers, herons, grebes, egrets, and cormorants. This magnificent body of water has been a fascinating and delightful teacher for me. One of my wishes for you in 2025, Gemini, is that you will commune regularly with equally inspiring phenomena. I also predict you will do just that. Extra beauty should be on your agenda!

CANCER (June 21-July 22): Just 81 billionaires have commandeered half of the world's wealth. Even worse, those greedy hoarders are usually taxed the least. That’s hard to believe! How is it even possible that such a travesty has come to pass? I also wonder if many of us non-billionaires have milder versions of these proclivities. Are there a few parts of me that get most of the goodies that my life provides, while other parts of me get scant attention and nourishment? The answer is yes. For example, the part of me that loves to be a creative artist receives much of my enthusiasm, while the part of me that enjoys socializing gets little juice. How about you, Cancerian? I suggest you explore this theme in the coming weeks and months. Take steps to achieve greater parity between the parts of you that get all they need and the parts of you that don’t.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): Mysteries of the past will be extra responsive to your investigations in 2025. Persistent riddles from your life’s earlier years may be solvable. I encourage you to be aggressive in collecting previously inaccessible legacies. Track down missing heirlooms and family secrets. Just assume that ancestors and dead relatives have more to offer you than ever before. If you have been curious about your genealogy, the coming months will be a good time to explore it. I wish you happy hunting as you search for the blessings of yesteryear—and figure out how use them in the present.

ARIES (March 21-April 19): If you worked eight hours per day, seven days a week, it would take you 300 years to count to the number one billion. I don't recommend you try that. I also discourage you from pursuing any other trivial tasks that have zero power to advance your long-term dreams. In a similar spirit, I will ask you to phase out minor longings that distract you from your major longings. Please, Aries, I also beg you to shed frivolous obsessions that waste energy you should instead devote to passionate fascinations. The counsel I'm offering here is always applicable, of course, but you especially need to heed it in the coming months.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): In 1951, minister and author Norman Vincent Peale was working on a new book. As he wrote, he would regularly read passages to his wife, Ruth. She liked it a lot, but he was far less confident in its worth. After a while, he got so discouraged he threw the manuscript in the trash. Unbeknownst to him, Ruth retrieved it and stealthily showed it to her husband's publisher, who loved it. The book went on to sell five million copies. Its title? The Power of Positive Thinking. I hope that in 2025, you will benefit from at least one equivalent to Ruth in your life, Taurus. Two or three would be even better. You need big boosters and fervent supporters. If you don't have any, go round them up.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): I love how colorfully the creek next to my house expresses itself. As high tide approaches, it flows south. When low tide is on its way, it flows north. The variety of its colors is infinite, with every shade and blend of

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22):

Anthropologist Robin Dunbar theorizes that most of us have limits to our social connections. Typically, our closest circle includes five loved ones. We may also have 15 good friends, 50 fond allies, 150 meaningful contacts, and 1500 people we know. If you are interested in expanding any of these spheres, Leo, the coming months will be an excellent time to do so. In addition, or as an alternative, you might also choose to focus on deepening the relationships you have with existing companions and confederates.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Uncle Tom's Cabin was the best-selling novel of the 19th century. It was written by a Virgo, Harriet Beecher Stowe. Her story about the enslavement of African Americans in the US was not only popular. It awakened many people to the intimate horrors of the calamity—and ultimately played a key role in energizing the abolitionist movement. I believe you are potentially capable of achieving your own version of that dual success in the coming months. You could generate accomplishments that are personally gratifying even as they perform a good service for the world.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): According to my reading of the astrological omens, you will be teased with an abundance of invitations to grow in 2025. You will be encouraged to add to your current skills and expertise. You will be nudged to expand your understanding of what exactly you are doing here on planet Earth. That’s not all, Libra! You will be pushed to dissolve shrunken expectations, transcend limitations, and learn many new lessons. Here’s my question: Will you respond with full heart and open mind to all these possibilities? Or will you sometimes neglect and avoid them? I dare you to embrace every challenge that interests you.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Scorpio-born Rudolf Karel was a 20th-century Czech composer who created 17 major works, including symphonies and operas. His work was interrupted when Nazi Germany invaded and occupied his homeland. He joined the Czech resistance, but was eventually arrested and confined to Pankrác Prison. There he managed to compose a fairy-tale opera, Three Hairs of the Wise Old Man. No musical instruments were available in jail, of course, so he worked entirely in his imagination and wrote down the score using toilet paper and charcoal. I firmly believe you will not be incarcerated like Karel in the coming months, Scorpio. But you may have to be extra resourceful and resilient as you find ways to carry out your best work. I have faith that you can do it!

Homework: Get yourself a holiday gift that’s beyond what you imagine you deserve. Newsletter.FreeWillAstrology.com

injured neurons and supporting the dant and available molecules: oxygen.

TAKE ME HOME

By Jenelle Brewer, AHWD, MRP, RENE, ABR®

Housing for All, Always

Breaking down barriers and building pathways to fair and inclusive homeownership

As we jump into the new year and prepare for a new/returning presidential administration, there may be many changes ahead in our world. But one thing I know won’t change: People need safe and affordable housing. Young and old, white, brown or Black, he/she/they and everyone in-between, the need for housing is inclusive. As we savor the holidays and gear up for another spring housing market, I want to take a minute to acknowledge how difficult homeownership can be for some, and hopefully provide resources and information to eliminate barriers on your path toward homeownership.

Oregon is a state that originally barred homeownership for Blacks and Chinese, and later used restrictive covenants to keep certain races confined to specific neighborhoods. Many well-intentioned people like to believe that discrimination no longer exists here, but I can assure you that even my 12-year-old Black daughter has faced it. So while I can’t tell you that you won’t face discrimination in home buying, I can assure you that Realtors adhere to a strict Code of Ethics meant to help us identify and report any discrimination in housing. I have appreciated seeing the work of the now-completed Good Deeds Program, educating and providing resources to homeowners who have deeds with discriminatory language

The rise in discrimination against the LGBTQIA+ community in the past few years is staggering and sickening. Sexual identity has only been fully protected under Oregon law since 2008. If you ever suspect discrimination in housing (whether renting or buying), Fair

PRICE ROUNDUP

Housing Council of Oregon is available to review your complaint and guide you through what your options are. Visit: fhco.org/report-housing-discrimination.

¿Sabe que todos los documentos de comprar una casa son disponible en español? The contract, disclosures, every document can be provided to you or your loved ones in Spanish. It can be hard to want to sign something in your second language for fear of not understanding — take the guess work out and have your agent provide both sets of forms.

Ask your Realtor about Spanish-speaking lenders here in Central Oregon as well!

Finding an agent with the AHWD designation (At Home With Diversity) also provides added assurance that your Realtor is committed to championing our protected classes (race, color, national origin, religion, disability, sex, gender identity, age, marital status).

There’s a growing need for affordable housing in our community, and various programs can help, like down payment assistance, closing cost grants and no-interest loans. A standout local option is the IDA savings through NeighborImpact. Accounts are awarded via a lottery, but if you’re not selected the first time, you might be next. This unique savings program offers a 5:1 match — for every $2,000 you save, you’ll receive an extra $10,000, giving you a total of $12,000 to put toward your future home.

This article can’t cover it all, so this list is meant to be the start of a conversation rather than the end. As our community grows and diversifies, the need for housing and supportive communi ty relationships also grows — so let’s grow together, not apart.

The days are short, the air is cold and the chaos of the holiday season is now firmly behind us. What better way to relax and unwind than with a beautifully crafted, warming beverage?

We invite you to submit a delectable winter inspired cocktail and/or mocktail that showcases your mastery of mixology and wows customers. Whether it’s a new take on a classic, or a brand-new creation on the cutting edge of innovation, we look forward to sharing your special offering with the community.

7 DAYS OF $10 COCKTAILS & $8 MOCKTAILS

JANUARY 29 -TOFEBRUARY 4