Artists: If you're interested in being a SW featured artist, email: production@bendsource.com.
EDITOR IN CHIEF
Nicole Vulcan - nicole@bendsource.com
MANAGING EDITOR
Nic Moye - editor@bendsource.com
FEATURES AND INVESTIGATIVE REPORTER
Peter Madsen - peter@layitoutfoundation.org
REPORTER
Julianna LaFollette - reporter@bendsource.com
REPORTER / CALENDAR EDITOR
Maddie Franz - calendar@bendsource.com
COPY EDITOR Richard Sitts
FREELANCERS
Jared Rasic, Ellen Waterston, Mary Casanave Sheridan, Sophie Elliot, Sarah Isak-Goode, Tiffany Neptune, Sara Rishforth, Julie Hanney
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
Adrian Galler - design@bendsource.com
SALES DIRECTOR
Ashley Sarvis
ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES
Ban Tat, Chad Barnes
advertise@bendsource.com
TECHNOLOGY OFFICER
Megan Burton - megan@layitoutevents.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
issues.
NEVER MISS AN ISSUE!
Become a subscriber to the Source Weekly today. For only $175 per year, receive every issue delivered to your doorstep.
Subscribe today: info@bendsource.com
EDITOR’S NOTE:
Use our Summer Guide to plan your summer! It’s loaded with music, festivals, markets and more. You’ll also find articles on the Big Ponderoo, LCD Soundsystem, local DJ duo Cliché and what’s making this year’s Sunriver Music Festival extra special. If music isn’t your jam, the “No Man’s Land” film festival is landing at the Tower. It’s a celebration of strong, adventurous women while examining the challenges they face. There’s also a new family fun center opening in Bend aimed at young children, plus a review of the new Indian restaurant, Spiceland.
In other news, the latest numbers are out for the Point in Time homeless count and an update on the controversial biomass plant in Crook County.
—Nic Moye, Managing Editor
LIGHTMETER: PRESENTED BY HARVEST MOON WOODWORKS
Unplanned but on brand: two members of the Source team—Ban Tat and Chad Barnes—recently arrived at work in matching outfits—proof that great minds really do think alike.
We want to share your photo! Tag @sourceweekly on Instagram for a chance to be featured.
@sourceweekly
HARVESTMOONWOODWORKS.COM CUSTOM. CABINE TS
OPINION
Public Input Matters. Sometimes It Even Works.
For a lot of people right now, hope is in short supply. Whether it’s inflation and the price of eggs, the cuts to federal budgets — and in turn, the looming ones to state budgets, the threats to Medicaid or Social Security or the Veteran’s Administration or the perceived abandonment of the rule of law, there’s plenty for the average American to be worried about. Those who seek to take action to counter all the hopelessness and helplessness might be urged to write to their congressperson or show up at a rally.
Those things do matter. However, for those who are represented by Democratic members of Congress, as most of us here in Bend are, that might feel a bit futile. With Republican majorities in both chambers of the U.S. Congress, do our words still matter?
(For those represented by Rep. Cliff Bentz in Oregon’s 2nd Congressional District, here’s his contact form: https://bentz.house.gov/contact)
Yet almost nothing is more American than a can-do attitude. If you want to take action in these times — to exercise your First Amendment right to petition your government for redress — then there are more ways to do that than the above-mentioned ones.
This week, we saw an example of that in Prineville, where residents effectively shut down a City of Prineville effort to get a biomass facility planned and eventually built in town. City councilors last week voted 4-2 against an Urban Growth Boundary expansion that would have made room for the biomass facility, after residents there showed up en masse to a City Council meeting and expressed concerns about the proposed location and lack of prior community input. Some people there said they had learned of the proposal just weeks before the initial vote was to take place. City councilors eventually delayed that vote, and then ended up voting against it.
A plan for the facility is not totally off the table, but for now, the Prineville City Council is re-evaluating the project, and plans to do a better job to engage the community going forward, should it try again.
In a time of so much uncertainty and executive orders that seem to run counter to American values of majority rule and co-equal branches of government, it’s encouraging
to see local governments still listening to constituents.
Let’s hope for the same at the federal level, as it pertains to a rule change for an Act that has had a major impact on the economic development of places like Bend.
This past month, people in the U.S. have also had the opportunity to speak up about a proposed rule change for the Endangered Species Act, which would change the regulatory definition of “harm” for species listed as protected under the Act. Essentially, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service under this administration wants us to believe that the only way to kill wildlife is to literally kill them – or in the verbiage of the Endangered Species Act, to “take” them. By rescinding the definition of “harm,” it would be easier for people to destroy habitats that allow ESA-protected species to thrive.
The protections for the Oregon spotted frog and the Northern spotted owl that have been put into place in recent decades are linked to Bend and Central Oregon’s rise as a center of recreation rather than resource extraction. Weakening those protections will not be good for people nor the species under protection.
Protecting species can also protect landscapes as a whole. As the National Park Service describes, “Northern spotted owls are considered to be an indicator species that helps gauge the ecological health of forest habitat.” The public comment period for the proposed change ended Monday. Overwhelmingly, the close to 200,000 public comments posted in the Federal Register oppose the change. We can only hope that in this case, like the public comments that shut down an unpopular plan in Prineville, the people’s voices will also be heeded.
In these highly unusual political times, some battles will be won; some lost. But public input still matters.
Stellar Hair with Personal Flair
Downtown Bend (behind Silverado Jewelry) 1001 NW Wall St #103
Loni Van Duzer, Megan Sedres, Camille Newman, and Diana Necessar y
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!
CHALLENGING TO DRIVE DOWNTOWN
My wife and I live on the SE side of Bend. Over the past five years we have just seen the changes to the downtown area make it progressively more unpleasant to drive to the area for dining. The latest, and perhaps the proverbial “straw that broke the camel’s back”, has been the constant revision of downtown parking, and the Greenwood Ave disaster. It’s as if the city of Bend doesn’t really want you to come downtown if you have to drive a car to get there. Consequently, we’ve been patronizing eateries that open up outside of the downtown area, because our living location requires a car for transport!
— Bill Holm
WHO CONTROLS TARIFFS?
Tariffs affect everyone, from eastern Oregon farmers to young urbanities, from rural coastal workers to retirees. It has captured the attention of the public and every media outlet but often missing the complete background.
The League of Women Voters of Oregon (LWVOR) believes one aspect of the tariffs (whether one supports or opposes them) is being ignored. Namely, the relationship to governmental separation of powers.
A founding principle of the LWV is the belief that “all powers of the US government should be exercised within the constitutional framework of a balance among the three branches of government: legislative, executive, and judicial.” The question then is who has control over tariffs?
Article 1, section 8 of the US Constitution tells us the answer is Congress, stating it has the power over “taxes, duties, imposts and excises” and “to regulate Commerce with foreign Nations.”
Congress also has the right to delegate timely and various levels of authority on tariffs to the president, which it has done six times. In 1977, they passed the International Emergency Economic Powers Act, which allows the president this power during times of emergency (which had been understood to mean an
actual emergency). Congress can modify these powers at any time.
Whether Oregonians praise or blame the president for tariff consequences, we need to understand which of our three branches of government constitutionally oversees such “duties, imposts and excises.” We hope that the media will better communicate this important separation of powers and congressional responsibilities.
— Barbara Klein & Kermit Yensen
CHRISTIANITY AND THE TRUMP ADMINISTRATION
When campaigning for president, Donald Trump said, if elected, he will give enhanced access to conservative Christian leaders. “It will be directly into the Oval Office and me.” In February President Trump announced an “anti-Christian bias” taskforce and a White House Faith Office, to make recommendations “regarding changes to policies, programs, and practices” and consult with outside experts in “combatting anti-Semitic, anti-Christian, and additional forms of anti-religious bias.”
White Christian nationalists are regularly associated as anti-LGBTQ+, anti-immigration and anti-racial equality, and broadly believe that America was founded and should be a white Christian nation, yet chiseled on the Statue of Liberty are the words: “Give me your tired, your poor/Your huddled masses yearning to breathe free.” The white Cristian nationalist thinking reminds me of the Mahatma Gandhi quote "I like your Christ, but not your Christianity." Gandhi also said "The Christians above all others are seeking after wealth. Their aim is to be rich at the expense of their neighbors” and he is spot on regarding white Christian nationalists and the Trump administration. Hmm — Billionaire Trump’s largest campaign donor and head of DOGE is Elon Musk, the richest person in the world.
What would Christ think of what is happening? Christ treated everyone as equals and would embrace DEI, LBGTQ+ rights, women’s rights and not side with anti-immigration and
anti-racial equality. Christ would be for school lunch programs, childcare, USAID, Head Start, universal health care and many other social programs.
— Joe Craig
CHINESE FIREWORKS - BAN SALES
With the OSU generated fire hazard/risk map, which everyone sought to "nullify", now leaving no doubt about Central Oregon being susceptible to wildfires, I would hope to see a ban put in place to prevent the sale of any and all fireworks to the public for private use. The 4th of July can still be celebrated with BBQs, parades and "red/white/blue ice cream celebrations while watching professional displays of "light shows" in the night sky. This is a Chinese explosive product which will and should have tariffs imposed. Now is the time to be reasonable, responsible and safety conscious.
Banning FIREWORKS would reduce the one source of ignition which threatens our neighborhoods which we actual have control over. Make the patriotic choice to forego Fireworks in Oregon.
— Heidi Chapman Supkis
SUPPORT GUN VIOLENCE PREVENTION BILL SB243
As a mom and a high school teacher, I believe our children deserve to be safe at home and school. But gun violence, including school shootings, puts our children at risk. After the Uvalde shooting in 2022, my students told me
that they felt the fear of a school shooting every day. Imagine trying to focus on Biology while listening for gunfire in the halls.
Currently our lawmakers have the opportunity to make Oregon safer for our kids. Senate bill 243 includes common sense gun violence prevention measures. Gun-modification devices like bump stocks, also called rapid fire devices, allow semi-automatic firearms to achieve fully automatic rates of fire- essentially turning a semi-automatic rifle into a machine gun. SB 243 will ban these devices and can stem the flow of military-style weapons into our communities.
Oregon lawmakers need to pass SB 243 for the sake of our kids. Please encourage your state representative to vote yes on SB 243.
— Norah Cook
Letter of the Week:
Thanks Norah for your thoughts. You can stop by our offices for a gift card to Palate coffee bar.
— Nic Moye, Managing Editor
Former Music Teacher Sentenced for Online Child Sex Abuse
A judge sentenced a former music teacher for the Bend La-Pine School district to 20 years in prison for online sexual abuse of children. Thirty-seven-year-old Erik Ekstrom pleaded guilty to two counts of Encouraging Child Sexual Abuse in the First Degree, two counts of Encouraging Child Sexual Abuse in the Second Degree, one count of Using a Child in a Display of Sexually Explicit Conduct and one count of Luring a Minor.
Bend police arrested Ekstrom after receiving a tip in 2022 from Snapchat, which reported that an account in Deschutes County had shared child sexual abuse material with another user. Police traced the upload to Ekstrom’s home. At the time, he was a music teacher at Summit High School, Cascade Middle School and Pacific Crest Middle School. Detectives say Ekstrom used fake names to solicit and entice children as young as 13 years old to engage in sexual acts online. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security was able to locate several victims around the country and world.
Intersection to Reopen
Good news for drivers frustrated with road construction in downtown Bend. Portland Avenue and the intersection of Wall Street and Olney Avenue will re-open Friday, May 23. Part of Olney Avenue will remain closed, however, east of Wall Street to NE Second Street. Work to replace water and sewer lines will continue there through the fall. 2,108
Crook and Jefferson counties and the Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs in the 2025 Point in Time survey.
Prineville Reevaluates UGB Expansion, Location for Biomass Facility
The City of Prineville tables plans, aims to get more community input on possible locations for a facility moving forward
By Julianna LaFollette
The City of Prineville decided this week to pause a proposed Urban Growth Boundary expansion, set to accommodate space for a prospective biomass facility among other expansion opportunities. The Prineville City Council voted 4-2 in opposition of the UGB expansion, following concerns from residents about the planned location and a lack of community input.
The decision, which city councilors made at a May 13 meeting, followed a well-attended public hearing with an estimated 100+ residents in attendance.
“We’re going back to the drawing board and trying to decide how to move forward. I think most of the council is in favor of a biomass plant, they just weren’t in favor of that property,” Prineville Mayor Jason Beebe told the Source.
The Prineville City Council plans to better engage the community, allowing residents a chance to get involved in the process of deciding if they want a biomass facility and what the best location would be for the building.
“Nothing will move forward again until we have a consensus from the community, and we look at other properties, and it may never get to that.”
—Prineville Mayor Jason Beebe
Despite the City’s ongoing plans for the expansion, some residents said they had learned of the proposed annexation just weeks before the initial planned vote, in April, causing frustration about the notification process.
In April, concerns regarding the City’s expansion process, and desire for a biomass facility, ramped up, leading the Council to delay its vote, and ultimately table it on Tuesday.
“It’s my inner dialogue and everyone’s gonna hear exactly what goes on in my head.”
— Marisa Pasnick, an ultrarunner featured in
the “No Man’s Land” film festival.
Biomass, a renewable organic material, can be burned for heat and electricity. Biomass sources can include wood, agricultural crops and waste. According to Beebe, the proposed facility would run strictly on wood.
Prineville is exploring the option of this renewable energy source to encourage economic opportunity. According to Beebe, the City hopes it will create jobs while supporting local forestry and agricultural industries.
The City of Prineville never intended to build the facility and, instead, hoped to put together a concept and move forward with the details and the permitting process to have a shovel-ready project ready for a private entity to take up.
“Nothing will move forward again until we have a consensus from the community, and we look at other properties, and it may never get to that,” said Beebe.
As of May 15, there is no timeline for the project, according to Beebe. He guesses, however, that this recent decision could put the City back two or three years on the prospective project.
In the meantime, Beebe said the Council would like more community input, such as the formation of a citizen group or committee to take up the issue.
Prineville residents, like Julie Thompson, seemed pleased with the May 13 decision and hopes to be involved in more decision making in the future. According to Thompson, this is what should have happened in the first place – hearing from community members about what they want out of the proposal.
The number of homeless people counted in Deschutes,
Courtesy City of Prineville
The Prineville City Council voted 4-2 in opposition of the proposed UGB expansion.
Annual Count Shows 17% Increase in Homelessness
Local agency, the Homeless Leadership Coalition, released the results of the 2025 Point-in-Time count
By Julianna LaFollette
The annual point-in-time count, measuring the number of people experiencing homelessness on a single night in January, was released on May 19, showing a 17% total increase throughout the region.
The PIT Count is conducted each year across the tri-county region, including Bend, Redmond, Sisters, La Pine, Madras, Prineville and the Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs reservation.
In 2025, the Homeless Leadership Coalition, which facilitates the count, reported 2,108 total adults and children experiencing houselessness, both sheltered and unsheltered. This most recent count shows a significant increase from previous years. The total was 1,799 people in 2024 and 1,647 people in 2023.
The purpose of the PIT count is to help agencies communicate what’s going on at the local level by collecting data on the number of people experiencing homelessness, as well as their demographics, potential causes of homelessness and how people are or are not accessing local resources.
It also helps local agencies advocate for additional financial resources at the local, state and federal level, while evaluating if current services are being used.
“We do believe that this year's count is more thorough than years past, and it gets better every single year. However, there are variables that cause the number to fluctuate."
— HLC Board Chair Eliza Wilson
The surveys are collected by local partners and community agencies who go out and survey individuals in shelters, transitional housing, meal sites, health care clinics, motels or hotels, camps on public lands or local streets. From Jan. 28 through Feb. 3, providers asked people where they were staying the night of Jan. 27, to provide a snapshot of a single night.
With a significant increase in certain areas, Molly Heiss, housing stabilization director for NeighborImpact, said some of that growth could be due to a change in methodology, including a shift to local service providers conducting the surveys and an improved data collection process.
“The better data we have, the better choices we can make about investments and resources,” Bend City Councilor Megan Perkins told the Source via email. “The increased engagement from service providers gave us a better picture of what is happening there. Bend’s numbers include China Hat and Juniper Ridge and so it is important for our city to have this information.”
In the 2025 PIT count, Deschutes County experienced a large increase in sheltered people, going from 481 in 2024 to 951 in 2025. The number of unsheltered people increased from 951 to 1,039 in 2025. By city, Bend’s total number of people experiencing homelessness went from 974 in 2024 to 1,001 in 2025. While Perkins said the City would like to see decreases every year, she believes the City’s investments in services have allowed the numbers to remain stable.
"While we would like to see decreases every year, we have been able to stabilize and flat line the growth. In addition, the small increase in 2025 came almost entirely from sheltered homeless not unsheltered,” Perkins told the Source.
“Just a couple of years ago our unsheltered numbers far outweighed our sheltered. To me, all of these things mean our investments in shelters and outdoor managed camps are bearing some fruit.”
Cities like Redmond and Prineville saw the most significant increases compared to last year. The total number of people experiencing homelessness in Redmond rose by 224, bringing the total from 150 in 2024 to 374 in 2025. Prineville’s total number also rose, with an increase of 126 people, bringing its total to 367.
Looking at numbers from the past few years, the count found that the total number of people experiencing homelessness has increased by 89% in the last five years.
When doing the count, those conducting the surveys also ask those participating to answer a variety of questions that help local residents and agencies better understand the community and its demographics.
The survey results found that 59% of people have lived in Central Oregon for more than 10 years, and over 80% of people have been houseless for a year or longer. Of those who responded, 54% of people also reported having a mental health disorder. Demographic information also found that the total number of children, those under 18, experiencing homelessness increased by 32%, bringing the total from 224 in 2024 to 296 in 2025.
While the count provides an overview of homelessness in Central Oregon, the HLC also admits it’s never completely accurate. Some people in certain areas may be absent from their camp or may be working when surveys are being conducted. For those that decline to participate in the survey, providers are meant to do an “observational survey,” counting someone if they can see them.
“We do believe that this year's count is more thorough than years past, and it gets better every single year. However, there are variables that cause the number to fluctuate,” said HLC Board Chair Eliza Wilson. In response to findings from the PIT count, the HLC identified other needs and priorities throughout the housing continuum, which included the need for additional Navigation centers, a center providing
“We know we need more. We need more navigation centers. More transitional housing. More permanent supportive housing."
— Bend City Councilor Megan Perkins
services to those in need, and a wide range of shelter and housing types.
HLC called for increased availability of low-barrier shelter and shelter alternatives for all populations. The agency also identified demand for more transitional housing and more permanent supportive housing units.
Other areas of improvement include additional units of affordable housing for very low-income households and additional funding for outreach, rental assistance and landlord mitigation.
“That's how we really have impact on our unhoused population – is by right sizing the solutions to the need of the population,” said Heiss with NeighborImpact. “Everyone's circumstances that they're experiencing in an unhoused situation is derived from a different, unique set of events that have happened to that household, and the solution is just as varied.”
“We know we need more. We need more navigation centers. More transitional housing. More permanent supportive housing. But at the City, our first concern is ensuring a strong shelter package comes out of the legislature so we can continue to provide the services we are already providing,” Perkins said. “If any of our shelters were to close, it would be extremely detrimental to our community and those experiencing homelessness.”
Central Oregon Villages provides temporary outdoor shelters and case management services for people experiencing homelessness.
Central Oregon Villages
Julianna LaFollette
Redmond Advances Long-Awaited Northpoint
Vista Development
Redmond City Council takes next steps
northeast project set to create over 400 units of affordable, workforce and market-rate
By Julianna LaFollette
Redmond is moving forward with a mixed housing development on the northeast side of town, following recent City Council decisions to approve the contracts to start construction. The Northpoint Vista project, a 40-acre site, is situated between NE Maple Ave. and NE Kingwood Avenue and is slated to offer over 400 housing units at a range of price points.
On May 6, the City awarded a $4,262,715 contract to Taylor Northwest LLC for infrastructure improvements in the project area. Over the last several years, the City of Redmond has received several grants for road, water and sewer infrastructure in Northpoint Vista. According to Steve Ashworth, deputy city manager, infrastructure work will start in late June.
On May 13, the City Council selected Pahlisch Homes to help develop a portion of Northpoint Vista, creating market-rate housing units.
After planning this development for about seven years, according to Steve Ashworth, deputy city manager, the City of Redmond is ready to move ahead with construction.
“A lot of work is done behind the scenes. Now we're at the point where we're going to actually start seeing all the fruits of that labor starting to come to life,” Ashworth told the Source.
The City of Redmond plans to develop this area into a complete community with mixed-income housing. House Bill 4079 and HB
2336 allowed the City of Redmond to plan for the development of affordable and market-rate housing on lands brought inside the city’s urban growth boundary without going through the standard UGB expansion process, which can typically take years to complete.
In the Northpoint Vista project, 30% of homes will be affordable housing, not exceeding 80% of the Area Median Income. The remaining 70% of homes will be a mix of affordable, workforce and market-rate housing, according to City documents outlining the development.
The City also plans to add commercial services within the neighborhood, offering residents a complete community, with large parks, trails and other amenities.
“We've got a central core park – a 3-acre park that will be owned by the city of Redmond, in the middle of this. We have a trail system
housing
network that we're working on between the [Deschutes] County and the City… We want to see this as a really vibrant neighborhood,” said Ashworth.
The project will be phased in, allowing different sections of the 40-acre lot to be developed over time.
Pahlisch Homes will develop about 10-12 acres of the northern section of the property, building market-rate and entry-level homes in partnership with master developers of the project, Edlen & Co and deChase Miksis.
According to Ashworth, Pahlisch Homes is hoping to break ground in the summer of 2026.
For the affordable housing portion of the neighborhood, the City is partnering with Rooted Homes, a local affordable housing developer, and Housing Works, a housing authority providing affordable housing and rental assistance for Central Oregonians. Just last week, Ashworth said, the City received a grant from the state that will help fund the creation of 14 affordable-ownership homes in spring of 2026.
According to Ashworth, the goal is to have at least the affordable units and market rate units built by 2030.
“It's a project that's been long coming, and a lot of work has gone into it,” said Ashworth. “We're actually getting to the point where we see housing units in our sites. It's not so far down that it's hard to see them.”
Fridays May-August 3pm-7pm
CANTASTIC BARREL RACING SUMMER SERIES
SPEED, SKILL AND THRILL
Hosted by Oregon Barrel Racers Association, riders and their horses navigate a cloverleaf pattern around three barrels in an arena. The goal is to complete the course in the fastest time, with the rider who is quickest winning the event. Thu., May 22, 4-7pm at Deschutes Country Fair & Expo Center. 3800 SW Airport Way, Redmond. SATURDAY 5/24
OLIVIA HARMS & THE ROAD RUNNERS
COUNTRY SWING AT BLACKSMITH PUBLIC HOUSE
Born on a farm in Oregon and raised in the country music touring scene, Olivia Harms brings her own boot-stomping, honky tonk, twangy tunes to the stage. Her most recent single, "This Ain't My First Rodeo," sat in the Texas Top 5 for over five weeks. Sat., May 24, 6:30pm at Blacksmith Public House. 308 SW Evergreen Ave, Redmond. Free.
A rendering of the planned community, offering a mix of housing types, as well as parks, trails and other amenities.
Courtesy City of Redmond
From world-famous headliners to local bands, this list
things music from end of May through September in Central Oregon
By Maddie Franz
Who’s ready for a summer filled with sun and fun and plenty of live music?
We are — so much so that we put together this entire guide of concerts, parties, festivals and so much more to get your planning started. Let our 2025 Summer Guide get you all planned out!
See the Icons on select shows:
Hayden Homes Ampitheatre
2-3-day festival
Visit website for full lineup
22
AMARGOSO
Silver Moon Brewing
BROGAN WOODBURN
The Lot
RUM PEPPERS
Mountain Burger
SHINE
The Commonwealth Pub
THEM N J
River’s Place
THE WAR AND TREATY
The Tower Theatre
23
ARTHUR BUEZO & GUESTS
Silver Moon Brewing
BRIANTOLOGY
Dogwood at the Pine Shed
BROTHER GABE TRIO
The Commonwealth Pub
DANGER GENTLY
Worthy Brewing
DESERT WHEELHOUSE
Seventh Mountain Resort
HELLER HIGHWATER TRIO
Faith, Hope & Charity Vineyards
THE KRONK MEN
Boneyard Pub
TERRAPIN FLYER
Volcanic Theatre Pub
TREY LEWIS
Cross-Eyed Cricket
THE QUONS Bend Cider Co.
24
COUNTRYFIED
Faith, Hope & Charity Vineyards
DUST DEVILS
The Bite
JESSIE LEIGH
Cross-Eyed Cricket
JOHNNY SIDNEY DAVIS, TREVOR
HANKS + PIECE FACE
Volcanic Theatre Pub
MEGAN ALDER, WESTERN
TRIPLE + GRITS N GRAVY
Crosscut Warming Hut
MICHELLE VAN HANDEL
QUARTET
River’s Place
MSTARKDJ Dogwood at the Pine Shed
TAYLOR KINGMAN, DARRIN
HACQUARD + KATE TURNER
Silver Moon Brewing
THEM N J
Worthy Brewing
THOUGHTBOX WITH ZORB
The Commonwealth Pub
25
BILL KEALE River’s Place
ISRAEL VIBRATION
Volcanic Theatre Pub
PIANO FLOW CAVE CONCERT
Juniper Preserve
STING 3.0 TOUR
Hayden Homes Amphitheater
TRAVIS EHRNSTROM BAND
Worthy Brewing
WARD DAVIS
Domino Room
26
THE BALLYBOGS & FRIENDS
Bend Cider Co.
STING 3.0 TOUR
Hayden Homes Amphitheater
27
JAZZ FOLKS
The Commonwealth Pub
TOPEKA CLEMENTINE, RAINBOW CITY PARK + NOT
YOUR EX LOVER
Silver Moon Brewing
THE WAILIN’ JENNYS
The Tower Theatre
28
ALEX WINTERS
Crosscut Warming Hut
BOBBY LINDSTROM AND ED THE WHISTLER
Worthy Brewing
FIVE PINT MARY
Father Luke’s Room
KEVIN DORIN
The Commonwealth Pub
KHRUANGBIN
Hayden Homes Amphitheater
SON OF WOLF
Bevel Craft Brewing
29
BRAD PAISLEY
Hayden Homes Amphitheater
DIRK BENSON
Mountain Burger
HONEY DON’T
River’s Place
THE MUDDY SOULS, SEAN DALY & THE SHAMS
Alpenglow Park
TWIN ENGINE
The Commonwealth Pub
SAKOYANA + GUESTS
Silver Moon Brewing
SCHOOL OF ROCK
Bend Cider Co.
SIDNEY JOSEPH
The Lot
30
AN EVENING WITH GOOSE
Hayden Homes Amphitheater
BLUE EGYPTIAN: GOOSE
AFTERPARTY
The Commonwealth Pub
COCC BIG BAND JAZZ CONCERT
Central Oregon Community College
GIANCARLO
Dogwood at the Pine Shed
THE JUNEBUGS
Faith, Hope & Charity Vineyards
KEVIN DORIN
Seventh Mountain Resort
Courtesy Red Clay Strays FB
shows: may/JUNE
Kiki with Cliché
BEND’S QUEER DJ DUO, CLICHÉ,
PREPARES FOR A SUMMER OF
INCLUSIVE LOCAL EVENTS TO FIND COMMUNITY ON THE DANCE FLOOR
By Julianna LaFollette
From summer festivals and Pride events to a weekly queer night at local cocktail bar, Dogwood at the Pine Shed, local DJ duo Cliché is gearing up for a busy summer.
The two DJs, Sean Lawrence (Father Sean) and Jonathon Lynch (Daddy Doubtfire), played their first gig together in 2023. According to Lawrence, the group was born out of Winter Pride a few years ago. Lawrence and Lynch, both queer DJs, decided to join forces.
“We wanted to do something together and something that felt a little bit more like us than your run-of-the-mill queer events that were happening during that time,” Lawrence told the Source. “Our name was actually kind of a pun – we were pointing at all these ‘cliché’ gay events that were happening.”
From there, the group continued to grow and spiraled into something bigger, doing events on a more regular basis.
“Within the 2SLGBTQIA community, there was just not a lot going on in the form of, like, a nightlife aspect. So, I think that really appealed to people, and it was something new and fresh,” Lawrence said.
The duo hosts the “Let’s Have a Kiki” event at Dogwood, where Lawrence serves as the general manager, to offer a weekly space for the queer community. According to Lawrence, the 2SLGBTQIA+ night, every Thursday from 7 to 10pm, serves as a location for people to meet, mingle and be with the community.
“We don't have a gay bar in Bend or anything like that, so this is the next best solution until someone really wants to go after that and create a fulltime space,” he said.
For this year’s summer Pride festival, the group will perform at several events, including its big Pride Kickoff Party at Volcanic Theatre Pub and a pool party at Campfire hotel. Among other PNW venues, Cliché will also play at the local Cascade Equinox Festival in September.
may
LINDA QUON + HELLO TROUBLE
Silver Moon Brewing
POLYRHYTHMICS
Volcanic Theatre Pub
THE HASBENS
Domino Room
31
THE BLACK KEYS
Hayden Homes Amphitheater
CHAINED TO STONE – SILVER
MOON BREWING
FUNKSHUI
River’s Place
PETE KARTSOUNES
Faith, Hope & Charity Vineyards
SCHAAB & SOFIE
Dogwood at the Pine Shed
SKILLETHEAD
The Commonwealth Pub
SUPERBALL
Worthy Brewing
JUNE
1
LEON BRIDGES
Hayden Homes Amphitheater
SPOTLIGHT CHAMBER PLAYERS
Touchmark at Mt. Bachelor Village
2
CONAN NEUTRON & THE SECRET FRIENDS, THE KRONK
MEN, -ETHER + VACANCY FLOOR
The Capitol
3
QUIET WINTER + BRASS JAGUAR
Silver Moon Brewing
4
FUNK AROUND AND FIND OUT
Worthy Brewing
THE VIBESHIFTAHS
Father Luke’s Room
JESSE MEADE
Crosscut Warming Hut
SWING NIGHT WITH HAUTE
MÉLANGE
Silver Moon Brewing
5
GRITS N’ GRAVY
Faith, Hope & Charity Vineyards
LATIN NIGHT WITH DJ SOLO
The Capitol
MARI & THE DREAM
River’s Place
MUMFORD & SONS
Hayden Homes Amphitheater
RUSTY MCRAE
The Lot
TENSAS & THE MOURNERS WITH JACKRAT
Silver Moon Brewing
6
ALMOST
The Commonwealth Pub
HELLER HIGHWATER
Seventh Mountain Resort
MUMFORD & SONS
Hayden Homes Amphitheater
PETE KARTSOUNES + PRECIOUS BYRD
Alpenglow Park
PROPER WITH GIANCARLO + MR. DANIMALS
The Capitol
SCHOOL’S OUT ROCK SHOW Domino Room
SO MUCH HOUSE: FLUFFY STUFF + LUXO
Silver Moon Brewing
THE SUBSTITUTES
Faith, Hope & Charity Vineyards
7
BENDING STRINGS: PACIFIC NORTHWEST ROCK NIGHT Volcanic Theatre Pub
DIVE BAR THEOLOGY
Worthy Brewing
KLASSIXS AYREBAND + MOTEL
KALIFORNIA: EAGLES TRIBUTE
Faith, Hope & Charity Vineyards
RARE FORM WITH SOFT CLIP + MAFIMI
The Capitol
THE SUBTITLES
The Commonwealth Pub
UNCHARTED PROJECT River’s Place
YACHT ROCK REVUE
Hayden Homes Amphitheater
8
GREAT AMERICAN TRAINWRECK River’s Place
OVERTIME & THE BLUE COLLAR SOLDIERS BAND Volcanic Theatre Pub
10
MIDNIGHT MORNING, JACKRAT + LONG OPERATORS
Silver Moon Brewing
Cliché Pride Kickoff Party. Fri., June 6, 8pm. Volcanic Theatre Pub. 70 SW Century Dr., Bend. $15-$25.
Photos courtesy Cliche & Cliche IG
11
AVI KAPLAN
Domino Room
JAZZ NIGHT WITH DUENDE LIBRE
Silver Moon Brewing
SANDRA PEEVERS
Crosscut Warming Hut
SPENCER MARLYN BAND
Worthy Brewing
WIDESPREAD HAZE
Father Luke’s Room
12
ALBERT LEE
The Tower Theatre
CHEYENNE WEST BAND
River’s Place
FRUITION
Volcanic Theatre Pub
MAMA’S BOY + THE COPPER CHILDREN
Alpenglow Park
MARI & THE DREAM
The Lot
TYLOR & THE TRAIN ROBBERS
Silver Moon Brewing
13
JEFF MILLER & THE CONGREGATION
Faith, Hope & Charity Vineyards
THE MUSERS
The Commonwealth Pub
TWIN ENGINES DUO
Seventh Mountain Resort
14
AN EVENING WITH PIGS ON THE WING
The Tower Theatre
BIG SUE DUO
McKenzie General Store
BLOCK PARTY
Silver Moon Brewing
ERIC LEADBETTER BAND
Worthy Brewing
HIPPIE DEATH CULT
Volcanic Theatre Pub
LITTLE RIVER BAND
Indian Head Casino
LONNIE MARIDIS QUARTET
River’s Place
THE MUSERS
The Commonwealth Pub
STYX & KEVIN CRONIN
+ DON FELDER
Hayden Homes Amphitheater
15
DAD BODS
SHARC
LONG GONE WILDER BAND
River’s Place
Same Spirit, New Stage: The 4 Peaks Music Festival Moves Indoors
By Sophie Elliott
The 4 Peaks Presents Music Festival, a cherished Central Oregon tradition since 2007, looks a little different this year, but the spirit remains the same. While it usually takes place outdoors, 2025’s event will move inside to the historic Tower Theatre in downtown Bend June 20-22.
The 4 Peaks Music Festival all began with five friends who shared a dream: to bring the music they loved to the heart of Central Oregon. Founder Stacy Koff never imagined how big the festival would become, but she always hoped to spread her love of music to as many people as possible. With the help of many others, her goal of creating a festival environment complete with vendors, camping, and world-class music for the families and community of Bend became a reality.
Koff’s love for music started at a very young age. Growing up in the L.A. area, she went to her first concert when she was 10 and instantly fell in love with live music. Through the band Phish, she discovered bluegrass, jazz, funk, and rock music. Between listening to Phish and attending the Telluride Bluegrass Festival for years, Stacy said there was no chance she was going to pass up an opportunity to bring her favorite music to those around her.”
The kind of music that I’ve always loved and brought to 4 Peaks is so community-oriented, and really good quality,” said Koff.
An unexpected twist was in store for the 4 Peaks Presents team this year. When Koff learned that, due to county staffing shortages, the necessary permits for an outdoor event wouldn’t be issued, she quickly pivoted to ensure the music would go on.
Partnering with the Tower Theatre, Koff and her team have been working diligently to preserve the festival’s authentic vibe, even in an indoor setting. To recreate the lively festival atmosphere, they’ve removed the first few rows of seats, giving attendees ample space to dance and enjoy the music freely. Additionally, each night will feature two headlining acts instead of one, doubling the excitement. Shows are also slated to start a bit later, allowing festival-goers to savor a delightful dinner downtown before immersing themselves in the evening’s performances. On top of this, there will be a kickoff event at the Volcanic Theatre Pub the night before, to create the multi-night festival feel.
When news broke that the 4 Peaks Presents Music Festival would be moving indoors this year, the community had mixed reactions. Some longtime festival-goers were surprised by the change, but founder Koff saw it as an opportunity to reach a broader audience. “This year, we have a chance to reach a different demographic. Some people don’t want to go camping for three nights. Some people like the idea of having a night out downtown and then going home to their own bed.” By partnering with the Tower Theatre, she aimed to create an experience that appeals to those who might prefer the comforts of an indoor venue — no camping required!
One of the bands taking the stage this year is The Rumble. Although they have played in town previously, this will be their first time playing at 4 Peaks. They love playing in Central Oregon because of the love and enthusiasm they
are greeted with. “The Rumble was created by seven New Orleans musicians and culture bearers that came together to celebrate and push New Orleans music and culture forward,” said one of the musicians. Fueled by their passion and talent, The Rumble has earned two Grammy nominations.
Another band taking the stage this year is The Lucky Strokes. “The Lucky Strokes is the brainchild of the New Mastersounds guitarist Eddie Roberts,” said the band’s singer/songwriter, Shelby Kemp. This will be their first time playing 4 Peaks, and they are excited to have the opportunity to play at the Tower Theatre and experience the Bend community. Shelby hopes that people take away, “how much care and intention we put into the songs we write, and how our music has a message of love and triumph, while remaining very danceable. "
The Rumble and The Lucky Strokes are just two of the many talented acts in this year’s lineup. The artists span a variety of genres, including funk, soul, bluegrass, and New Orleans jazz. When asked why people should attend, Koff said, “It’s important to pay attention to these bands before they get big.” And who knows, “You might just discover your new favorite band at 4 Peaks.”
If you are interested in attending 4 Peaks Presents Live at the Tower Theatre, visit 4peaksmusic.com.
4 Peaks Presents Fri.-Sun., June 20-22 Tower Theatre 835 NW Wall St., Bend 4peaksmusic.com/faqs/ $65+
Photos by Carlton Ward
june
PETER FRAMPTON
Hayden Homes Amphitheater 16
OPEN MIC
Bunk + Brew
PETE DROGE
Volcanic Theatre Pub
18
COYOTE RYDER
Worthy Brewing
JACK SYMES WITH JACKSONPORT
Volcanic Theatre Pub
KOLBY KNICKERBOCKER
Crosscut Warming Hut
LIVE DEAD & BROTHERS
Domino Room
MOONSHROOM
Father Luke’s Room
19
4 PEAKS PREPARTY
Volcanic Theatre Pub
AARON LEWIS & THE STATELINERS
General Duffy’s
DIVE BAR THEOLOGY + IRON PROPHECY
Alpenglow Park
DUNIYA
Silver Moon Brewing
JERRY ZYBACH
McKenzie General Store
MARK MCCORD TRIO River’s Place
SKINNY DENNIS The Lot
20
4 PEAKS MUSIC FESTIVAL The Tower Theatre
BROKEN CHARLEY
Seventh Mountain Resort
HELLER HIGHWATER TRIO
Faith, Hope & Charity Vineyards
THUNDERSTORM ARTIS BAND
Silver Moon Brewing
21
4 PEAKS MUSIC FESTIVAL
The Tower Theatre
BEND BLUES FEST
Silver Moon Brewing
HONEY DON’T
Worthy Brewing
JOHN HOOVER & THE MIGHTY QUINNS
Faith, Hope & Charity Vineyards
JON PARDI
Hayden Homes Amphitheater
SUPERBALL The Commonwealth Pub
TIGER TOWN MUSIC FEST
Tiger Town Brewing Company, Mitchell
22 4 PEAKS MUSIC FESTIVAL The Tower Theatre
BIM JEAM TRIO River’s Place
EARTH, WIND & FIRE
Hayden Homes Amphitheater
HONEY DON’T
SHARC
23
JUNACO Suttle Lodge & Boathouse
25
BILL POWERS
Crosscut Warming Hut
JO DEE MESSINA
Indian Head Casino
PETE KARTSOUNES Worthy Brewing
26
BROTHERS REED
McKenzie General Store
COVER STORY
River’s Place
DRAVEN SCHMIDT
The Lot
ELISE FRANKLIN QUARTET + SABROSO
Alpenglow Park
JACKALOPE JAMBOREE
Pendleton
ROB LEINES
Silver Moon Brewing
27
BIG PONDEROO FREE KICKOFF
EVENT
Village Green Park, Sisters
EUGENIA RIOT: JAGGED LITTLE
PILL 30TH ANNIVERSARY
CELEBRATION
Silver Moon Brewing
JACKALOPE JAMBOREE
Pendleton
KARISSA & THE LOOSE SCREWS
Faith, Hope & Charity Vineyards
MITCHELL TENPENNY
General Duffy’s
SIDNEY JOSEPH
Seventh Mountain Resort
Big Ponderoo
THE SENSATIONAL SUMMER FESTIVAL IN SISTERS
By Sarah Isak-Goode
One of the best things about Central Oregonians is our love of nature. So it’s no surprise that the SFF Presents outdoor festival, Big Ponderoo, is returning for its fourth year. Nestled beneath the giant shade trees of the idyllic Village Green Park in Sisters, this family-friendly event promises to be a summer sensation.
With entertainment all day and camping available at night, there is something for everyone to enjoy. The lineup includes some of America’s finest bluegrass, country, and Americana music: Sierra Hull, John Craigie & the Coffis Brothers, Shovels & Rope, Tophouse, Lindsay Lou, Alo, Yarn, Terrance Simien & the Zydeco Experience, Cat Clyde, Clay Street Unit, Fireside Collective, and more. After you’ve done your blue grass boogie, you can refresh your self at one of many fantastic food and drink vendors like Barrio, Lot Dawgs and Southern Accent. Then grab a local beverage or some Bonta and stroll around the venue, checking out displays and events from local artists.
programming. "Our mission is to enrich lives through art and music education," says Communications Manager Erin Pihl.
It’s no wonder this festival remains popular with attendees and musicians alike. As six-time IBMA Mandolin Player of the Year Sierra Hull told The Source, “You know, I think it's important to make sure that people that you're surrounding yourself with - personally and musically - that they're people that you want to be in their presence, and that can help you be a better person. I think all that kind of keeps your heart and spirit open, if that makes sense, which can keep you from getting as jaded about the music itself.” Hull’s thoughtfulness pervades her music, from haunting melodies to innovative and uplifting mandolin stylings. Find her along with other incredible musicians at this year’s fes-
DanielStarkPhotograph y
The Big Ponderoo festival is not just about music and art but also about community. There are no bans on bringing in your own low-backed seating, and all adult ticket holders receive a free Silipint to discourage single-use cups. The festival even has a bike valet so daytime visitors can attend without worrying about parking. Perhaps most impressively, the SFF Presents Big Ponderoo festival gives back through more than a dozen yearly music and arts events and educational opportunities. In 2024 alone, they invested over $225,000 in local educational
The Big Ponderoo begins with the free Big Ponderoo Friday Art Walk on Friday, June 27. After the art walk, a free concert will be held at Village Green Park, where attendees can enjoy live music from two festival bands. The festival will continue on Saturday, June 28, and Sunday, June 29, with two days of live music. This is a rain or shine event.
Purchase single adult tickets starting at $100 or weekend tickets for $205 at bigponderoo.com. Children five and under attend for free.
Big Ponderoo Sat.-Sun. June 28-29 Sisters Bigponderoo.com $120+
june cont.
28
BARENAKED LADIES, GUSTER & FASTBALL
Hayden Homes Amphitheater
BIG PONDEROO MUSIC + ART FESTIVAL
Village Green Park, Sisters
EMILY STANTON + HIGH STREET
Faith, Hope & Charity Vineyards
JACKALOPE JAMBOREE
Pendleton
JACKRAT
Worthy Brewing
JUJU EYEBALL
The Commonwealth Pub
KOTA DOSA
The Belfry
ONE WAY OUT: CELEBRATING THE ALLMAN BROTHERS
Volcanic Theatre Pub
ZOSO: THE ULTIMATE LED
ZEPPELIN EXPERIENCE
The Tower Theatre
29
BIG PONDEROO MUSIC + ART FESTIVAL
Village Green Park, Sisters
BLACKSTRAP BLUEGRASS
SHARC
PINK MARTINI
Hayden Homes Amphitheater
TONY SMILEY
River’s Place
30
CORY PHILLIPS
Suttle Lodge & Boathouse
JULY
1
SCOTT BRADLEE’S
POSTMODERN JUKEBOX
The Tower Theatre
2
BOBCAT
The Commonwealth Pub LAKE STREET DIVE
Hayden Homes Amphitheater
SWING NIGHT WITH HAUTE
MÉLANGE
Silver Moon Brewing
WATKINS GLEN Worthy Brewing
3
JAZZ NIGHT WITH MACHADO
MIJIGA
Silver Moon Brewing
LATIN NIGHT WITH DJ SOLO
The Capitol
LIZA’S LOUNGE
The Greenhouse Cabaret
MUNCH & MUSIC
Drake Park
SON OF WOLF: MAXX LOPEZ
The Lot
SOUL’D OUT River’s Place
4
CALL DOWN THUNDER + GUESTS
Silver Moon Brewing
DIVE BAR THEOLOGY + MAMA’S
BOY
Bend Brewing
LIZA’S LOUNGE
The Greenhouse Cabaret
PROPER WITH GIANCARLO + MR. DANIMALS
The Capitol RUSTY FRETS
Seventh Mountain Resort
SO MUCH HOUSE: FLUFFY
STUFF + LUXO
Silver Moon Brewing
SUMMIT EXPRESS JAZZ BAND
Faith, Hope & Charity Vineyards
THAT ‘90S BAND + PARTY IN THE BACK Worthy Brewing
5
JESHUA MARSHALL BAND
Worthy Brewing
LIZA’S LOUNGE
The Greenhouse Cabaret
MAVIS BETZ PROJECT
River’s Place
RARE FORM WITH SOFT CLIP + MAFIMI
The Capitol
THE SUBSTITUTES
Faith, Hope & Charity Vineyards
6
COMPANY GRAND SHARC FLUFFALOVE River’s Place
7
MEGAN DIANA Suttle Lodge & Boathouse
9
COLLECTIVE SOUL & +LIVE+ Hayden Homes Amphitheater
LINDA QUON AND HELLO
TROUBLE Worthy Brewing
10
CRITICAL BLUES BAND River’s Place
KYLE HUBBARD
The Lot
MUNCH & MUSIC
Drake Park
11
ALLAH LAS
Volcanic Theatre Pub
BILL POWERS
Seventh Mountain Resort
BILLY CURRINGTON & KIP
MOORE
Hayden Homes Amphitheater
COYOTE RIDER
Bend Cider Co.
THE JUNEBUGS
Faith, Hope & Charity Vineyards
12
DAD BODS
Silver Moon Brewing
FUNK AROUND AND FIND OUT River’s Place
RUBBAH TREE Worthy Brewing
13
BROKEN TOP BLUEGRASS River’s Place
LEO KOTKE
The Tower Theatre
14
EEL SALAD Suttle Lodge & Boathouse
15
feature shows: july/aug
july cont. 16
OREGON FRYER
Worthy Brewing
MATTE BLVCK
Volcanic Theatre Pub
17
THE CRITICAL BLUES BAND
The Commonwealth Pub
KURT SILVA
Faith, Hope & Charity Vineyards
LEFT ON TENTH + GUESTS
Silver Moon Brewing
MUNCH & MUSIC
Drake Park
SKINNY DENNIS
The Lot
SWEET MOTOR
River’s Place
TAB BENOIT
The Tower Theatre
18
FAIRWELL FESTIVAL
Deschutes County Fairgrounds
LOS DOMINANTES DEL VALLE
Seventh Mountain Resort
SHINE
The Commonwealth Pub
19
AMARGOSO
Worthy Brewing
FAIRWELL FESTIVAL
Deschutes County Fairgrounds
KARYN ANN
McKenzie General Store
PRECIOUS BYRD
Faith, Hope & Charity Vineyards
THE STILLHOUSE JUNKIES
Silver Moon Brewing
20
DOUBLE JUMP
River’s Place
THE FRETLINERS
The Tower Theatre
JESSE ROPER & GUESTS
Silver Moon Brewing
21
FOREST RAY
Suttle Lodge & Boathouse
OF MONTREAL
Volcanic Theatre Pub
22
PENELOPE ROAD
Silver Moon Brewing
SHINYRIBS
The Tower Theatre
23
DROPKICK MURPHYS & BAD RELIGION
Hayden Homes Amphitheater
MARI AND THE DREAM
Worthy Brewing
TOWN MOUNTAIN
Volcanic Theatre Pub
24
BADUKU AND BAHURU
MARIMBA BANDS
Redmond Library
DRY CANYON STAMPEDE
River’s Place
GARRETT LEON
The Lot
JERRY ZYBACH
McKenzie General Store
MAOLI
Hayden Homes Amphitheater
MUNCH & MUSIC
Drake Park
OLIVIA HARMS
Faith, Hope & Charity Vineyards
25
CHASE RICE
General Duffy’s ROD DEGEORGE
Seventh Mountain Resort
TEENAGE BOTTLEROCKET + BROADWAY CALLS
Silver Moon Brewing
YONDER MOUNTAIN STRING BAND
Volcanic Theatre Pub
26
COUNTRYFIED
Faith, Hope & Charity Vineyards
MIZMOR, VACANCY FLOOR + WEAPON WORLD
Silver Moon Brewing
MONKEY MODE
River’s Place
THE RED CLAY STRAYS
Hayden Homes Amphitheater
SILVERTONE DEVILS
Worthy Brewing
SUPERBALL
The Commonwealth Pub
27
MIKE DAWES
The Tower Theatre
PETE KARTSOUNES
River’s Place
28
DIVE BAR THEOLOGY
Suttle Lodge & Boathouse
29
BEATLES VS STONES: A MUSICAL SHOWDOWN
The Tower Theatre
JULIAN MARLEY & THE UPRISING + GUESTS
Silver Moon Brewing
30
HIGH DESERT RAMBLERS
Worthy Brewing
OLD DOMINION
Hayden Homes Amphitheater
31
DISPATCH, JOHN BUTLER, G. LOVE & DONAVON FRANKENREITER
Hayden Homes Amphitheater
DUBB CENTRAL River’s Place
ELLIS BULLARDC
Silver Moon Brewing
MUNCH & MUSIC
Drake Park
PICKATHON
Happy Valley
SIDENY JOSEPH
The Lot
AUG
1
CATHERINE LOYER & STRAWBERRY ROAN
Faith, Hope & Charity Vineyards
GEORGE THOROGOOD & THE DESTROYERS
Indian Head Casino
GREENSKY BLUEGRASS
Volcanic Theatre Pub
PICKATHON
Happy Valley
PROPER WITH GIANCARLO + MR. DANIMALS
The Capitol
SO MUCH HOUSE: FLUFFY
STUFF + LUXO
Silver Moon Brewing
THE ROCKCHUCKS
Seventh Mountain Resort
Cour tesy Leon BridgesFB
2
CAAMP
Hayden Homes Amphitheater
CY DEFECT
River’s Place
JOHN HOOVER & THE MIGHTY QUINNS
Faith, Hope & Charity Vineyards
PICKATHON
Happy Valley
LARCHES, AMAGOSO, MOON RATTLES + THE ROSA LEES
Silver Moon Brewing
RARE FORM WITH SOFT CLIP + MAFIMI
The Capitol
SADGIRL + THE MCCHARMLYS
Volcanic Theatre Pub
SUNRIVER MUSIC FESTIVAL ORCHESTRA
The Tower Theatre
3
JOE BONAMASSA
Hayden Homes Amphitheater
LARKSPUR STAND River’s Place
PICKATHON
Happy Valley
SUNRIVER MUSIC FESTIVAL
ORCHESTRA
The Tower Theatre
4
JOEL CHADD & BAND
Suttle Lodge & Boathouse
5
THE DELTA & GUESTS
Silver Moon Brewing
MY MORNING JACKET
Hayden Homes Amphitheater
OLIVE KLUG
Volcanic Theatre Pub
6
MARK BATTLES
Midtown Ballroom
7
DESPERATE ELECTRIC
Silver Moon Brewing
DRAVEN SCHMIDT
The Lot
THE FLINNS River’s Place
LATIN NIGHT WITH DJ SOLO
The Capitol
MUNCH & MUSIC
Drake Park
ROB GREGERSON
Faith, Hope & Charity Vineyards
‘Get Innocuous!’
ORIGINATING IN THE "INDIE SLEAZE ERA," THESE BANDS, PLAYING TWO NIGHTS, BRING DANCE-Y, ELECTRO-FUNK ROCK TO HAYDEN HOMES AMPHITHEATER
By Peter Madsen
Judging by LCD Soundsystem’s packed show at Hayden Homes Amphitheater last year, it might seem impossible that the group, fronted by James Murphy, was destined for anything but greatness.
But flashback 23 years ago to a period shortly after 9/11: Murphy was having a creative — if not full-blown identity — crisis. The founder and operator of Manhattan record label DFA (along with then-partner Tim Goldsworthy) had produced and released The Rapture’s “House of Jealous Lovers” in 2002. The disco punk single was a smash hit, vaulting to ninth in the Village Voice’s venerable Pazz & Jop list for singles that year.
But still waters ran deep.
To hear it from Murphy in “Meet Me in the Bathroom,” an oral history tome and subsequent 2022 documentary by filmmaker Lizzy Goodman, the producer and former indie rock supporting man had clashed with The Rapture in the recording studio; they later left his label for lack of a timely release of their sophomore album “Echoes,” according to the documentary. But Murphy had more than the chutzpa to royally piss off someone else’s band — he had the artistic conviction to front his own. Through his production work, Murphy was making headway into the natal, funky dance punk scene that was taking over New York dive bars and dance floors. But he wasn’t leading the charge. At a seemingly do-ordie moment, Murphy sat down to jot some diaristic lyrics:
“I'm losing my edge to the artschool Brooklynites in little jackets and borrowed nostalgia for the unremembered eighties / I'm losing my edge to better-looking people with better ideas and more talent / But they’re actually really, really, nice.” The screed, which became the
2002 single “Losing My Edge,” is self-effacing yet cheeky, laced with disco hi-hats and fuzzy production reminiscent of the German arty rock band Can, CBGB proto-punkers Suicide and the South Bronx’s ESG. Murphy tapped musicians/drinking buddies Nancy Whang, Pat Mahoney, Tyler Pope, Al Doyle and Korey Richey to flesh out the band. With their help, Murphy shaped an infectious sound into the group’s eponymous, 2005 debut LP.
Those aforementioned kids in little jackets were nice enough to catapult LCD through the indie stratosphere and beyond. The band would scoop up two Grammy nominations and top innumerable critics’ and bloggers’ Best Of lists. Persnickety Pitchfork even took a shine.
After subsequently failing at quitting (LCD advertised its 2011 show at Madison Square Garden as its last) Murphy and company
have etched their names in the pantheon of New York heavies of the aughts, the recently coined “Indie Sleaze Era.” So much for staying innocuous.
TV On The Radio
That Brooklyn’s TV On The Radio is touring with LCD Soundsystem makes perfect sense, as they came up in very compatible cultural and sonic spaces. No doubt, a Venn Diagram of their respective fan bases would form a perfect circle. TVOTR made big waves with its debut EP, “Young Liars,” in 2003, and bigger waves the next year with “Desperate Youth, Blood Thirsty Babes.” The debut album is a gauzy, brassy, yelping and soulful trip through a black-lit rock quarry. In the intermittent years, TVOTR put out four albums and toured the globe, most recently, in promotion of "Desperate Youth,” which the band remastered and re-released in 2024. Throughout, breakup rumors dogged the band. In a May 13 interview with the CBC, frontman Tunde Adebimpe spoke nonchalantly about chronic exhaustion. Having reunited last year for a European tour, Adebimpe said the chemistry among his TVOTR bandmates “feels great.”
“The cool thing about taking a break is how everyone goes to their corner of the Earth and learns their special type of kung fu,” he said. “Then they come back to the Voltron and team up to fight crime.” LCD Soundsystem with TV On The Radio
Aug. 9 & Sunday, Aug. 10
Courtesy TV on the Radio IG
James Murphy @ Ruvan Wijesooriy
aug cont.
SUNRIVER MUSIC FESTIVAL
ORCHESTRA
The Tower Theatre***
TEDESCHI TRUCKS BAND & WHISKEY MYERS
Hayden Homes Amphitheater
8
THE CUTMEN River’s Place
DRY CANYON STAMPEDE
Seventh Mountain Resort
MAJOR DUDES: STEELY DAN
TRIBUTE
Faith, Hope & Charity Vineyards
SUNRIVER MUSIC FESTIVAL
ORCHESTRA
Benham Hall, Sunriver
TEDESCHI TRUCKS BAND & WHISKEY MYERS
Hayden Homes Amphitheater
9
ACE FREHLEY
Indian Head Casino
CHASE MATTHEW
General Duffy’s
JUJU EYEBALL
The Commonwealth Pub
LCD SOUNDSYSTEM
Hayden Homes Amphitheater
THE SUBSTITUTES
Faith, Hope & Charity Vineyards
YACHTLY CREW
Volcanic Theatre Pub
10
DEMOLA
The Tower Theatre
LCD SOUNDSYSTEM
Hayden Homes Amphitheater
11
MATT MITCHELL & BAND
Suttle Lodge & Boathouse
RAINBOW KITTEN SURPRISE
Hayden Homes Amphitheater
SUNRIVER MUSIC FESTIVAL
ORCHESTRA
Sunriver Resort Great Hall
12
RÜFÜS DU SOL
Hayden Homes Amphitheater
SUNRIVER MUSIC FESTIVAL
SOLO PIANO
Sunriver Resort Great Hall
13
THE LUMINEERS
Hayden Homes Amphitheater
SUNRIVER MUSIC FESTIVAL
ORCHESTRA
Sunriver Resort Great Hall
14
BLUE HUNDREDS
Midtown Ballroom
GRITS N GRAVY
Faith, Hope & Charity Vineyards
THE LUMINEERS
Hayden Homes Amphitheater
SCOTTY MCCREERY
General Duffy’s
15
JEN HOWARD
Seventh Mountain Resort
THE JESS RYAN BAND
The Commonwealth Pub
KENNY FEIDLER
Silver Moon Brewing
THOMAS T & THE BLUE CHIPS
River’s Place
TRAMPLED BY TURTLES & SHAKEY GRAVES
Hayden Homes Amphitheater
16
GLASS ANIMALS
Hayden Homes Amphitheater THAT ‘90S BAND
Silver Moon Brewing
17
ALABAMA SHAKES
Hayden Homes Amphitheater
18
FOG HOLLER
Suttle Lodge & Boathouse 19
COUNTING CROWS
Hayden Homes Amphitheater 20
DANGER GENTLY
The Cellar 21
GRACE COOPER & WYATT
River’s Place
GREAT AMERICAN TRAINWRECK
Silver Moon Brewing
ERIC LEADBETTER DUO
Faith, Hope & Charity Vineyards
LAINEY WILSON
Hayden Homes Amphitheater
SKINNY DENNIS
The Lot
22
CRITICAL BLUES BAND
Silver Moon Brewing
DARING GREATLY
The Commonwealth Pub
LONG GONE WILDER
Seventh Mountain Resort
MT. JOY
Hayden Homes Amphitheater
NIKO MOON
General Duffy’s
SUMMER GROOVE PARTY BAND
Faith, Hope & Charity Vineyards
23
GABRIAL SWEYN McKenzie General Store
JEFF MILLER & THE CONGREGATION
Faith, Hope & Charity Vineyards
MAJOR DUDES: TRIBUTE TO STEELY DAN
Hardtails Bar & Grill, Sisters
24
ALMOST River’s Place
JESSE DANIEL + JAKE KOHN
Domino Room
25
BLAIR BORAX
Suttle Lodge & Boathouse
The Commons Cafe & Taproom
To mark the occasion, we’re throwing a party on Saturday May 31st, and you’re invited. Stop by for demonstrations of Welding, Woodworking, Wood Lathe, Blacksmithing, Jewelry, Leather, Stained Glass, 3D printing, Lasers and more throughout the day. Take a tour of the shop, connect with our amazing maker community, and enjoy an exclusive discount on memberships just for showing up.
www.diycave.com MAY 31ST FROM 10:00AM-4:00PM
Whether you're a longtime member or just curious, stop by to see what you can start making.
28
CYRUS NABIPOOR
Silver Moon Brewing
HELLER HIGHWATER
Faith, Hope & Charity Vineyards
OLIVIA HARMS
River’s Place
SON OF WOLF: MAXX LOPEZ
The Lot
29
DAD BODS
The Commonwealth Pub
GOO GOO DOLLS
Hayden Homes Amphitheater
KYLE HUBBARD
Seventh Mountain Resort
PETE KARTSOUNES
Faith, Hope & Charity Vineyards
REGGAE RISE UP
Deschutes County Fairgrounds
30
BILLY NATION: TRIBUTE TO BILLY JOEL
The Tower Theatre
THE CIDER JANES
Faith, Hope & Charity Vineyards
JAPANESE BREAKFAST
Hayden Homes Amphitheater
REGGAE RISE UP
Deschutes County Fairgrounds
31
AN EVENING WITH CHICAGO
Hayden Homes Amphitheater
REGGAE RISE UP
Deschutes County Fairgrounds
5
COYOTE RIDER
Bend Cider Co.
PROPER WITH GIANCARLO
+ MR. DANIMALS
The Capitol
SHINE
The Commonwealth Pub
SO MUCH HOUSE: FLUFFY
STUFF + LUXO
Silver Moon Brewing 6
COREY KENT
General Duffy’s
KARISSA & THE LOOSE SCREWS
Faith, Hope & Charity Vineyards
KARYN ANN
McKenzie General Store
RARE FORM WITH SOFT CLIP
+ MAFIMI
The Capitol
SUPERBALL
The Commonwealth Pub
USE’TA DO River’s Place
7
HELLO TROUBLE River’s Place
9
EXTC: TERRY CHAMBERS & FRIENDS The Commonwealth Pub
10
NEIL YOUNG AND THE CHROME HEARTS
Hayden Homes Amphitheater
11
EVERCLEAR, LOCAL H + SPONGE
Silver Moon Brewing
JONATHAN FOSTER
Faith, Hope & Charity Vineyards
14
SIDNEY JOSEPH
River’s Place 18
ABRA CADABRA: A TRIBUTE TO ABBA
The Tower Theatre
SKINNY DENNIS
The Lot
WARREN ZEIDERS
Hayden Homes Amphitheater
19
CASCADE EQUINOX
Deschutes County Fairgrounds
HELLER HIGHWATER TRIO
Faith, Hope & Charity Vineyards
20
CASCADE EQUINOX
Deschutes County Fairgrounds
DRY CANYON STAMPEDE
Faith, Hope & Charity Vineyards
SPEEDFEST
Silver Moon Brewing USE’TA DO
McKenzie General Store
21
CASCADE EQUINOX
Deschutes County Fairgrounds
25
ERIC LEADBETTER DUO
Faith, Hope & Charity Vineyards
26
SISTERS FOLK FESTIVAL
Sisters
27
NOAH KITE
Suttle Lodge & Boathouse
4
BROTHERS REED
McKenzie General Store
KURT SILVA
Faith, Hope & Charity Vineyards
LATIN NIGHT WITH DJ SOLO
The Capitol
MELVIN SEALS + JERRY GARCIA
BAND
Midtown Ballroom
MILO MATTHEWS River’s Place 12
FOGGY MOUNTAIN SPACESHIP
Silver Moon Brewing 13
BIG SUE DUO
McKenzie General Store
STATION CAMP
Faith, Hope & Charity Vineyards
CREDENCE REVELATION
The Tower Theatre
DAD BODS
Silver Moon Brewing
JERRY ZYBACH
McKenzie General Store
JUJU EYEBALL
The Commonwealth Pub
SISTERS FOLK FESTIVAL
Sisters
28
JOE KAPLOW
The Commonwealth Pub
SISTERS FOLK FESTIVAL
Sisters
Photo courtesy Bethany & Spencer Showalter
Courtesy Khruangbin FB
Courtesy Sierra Ferrell
Courtesy RÜFÜS DU SOL FB
2025
Parties, markets, performances, festivals, athletic events and other summer fun in central oregon
Bridge 99 Brewery, Elements Public House, Ponch’s Place, Silver Moon Brewing
Friday
KARAOKE Big E’s Sports Bar, Hardtails Bar
REDMOND FARMERS
MARKET Centennial Park
MOVIES IN THE PARK Various Bend Parks
Saturday
ARTISAN MARKET
Downtown Bend
CROP FARMERS MARKET
Stryker Park, Prineville
NWX FARMERS MARKET NorthWest Crossing
Sunday
JAZZ & RARE GROOVE
VINYL
Dogwood at the Pine Shed
KARAOKE Podski
NOT’CHO GRANDMA’S
BINGO
Silver Moon Brewing
SISTERS FARMERS
MARKET
Fir Street Park, Sisters TRIVIA
The Commons Cafe, The Commonwealth Pub, River’s Place
WORTHY FARMERS
MARKET Worthy Brewing
MAY 22
BINGO BENEFITING SHELTER PETS Spider City Brewing
23
BEND BREWS & BEYOND WELCOME PARTY
Silver Moon Brewing
FRESH SQUEEZED TRIVIA
Deschutes Brewery
24
BEND BREWS & BEYOND Drake Park
BEND WOMEN’S EXPO
Seventh Mountain Resort
BLAZIN’ SADDLES BLOCK PARTY Sisters
FOURTH FRIDAY ART WALK Downtown Sisters
MUJERES HIKE Vamonos Outside
OREGON BALLET THEATER 2 The Tower Theatre
THE ROUNDABOUTS IMPROV SHOW Silver Moon Brewing
SOUTHERN OREGON FLEA MARKET
Deschutes County Fairgrounds
VOLCANO: A SCIENCE COMEDY SHOW BY BEN MILLER Midtown Ballroom
25
BEND BREWS & BEYOND
Drake Park
BLAZIN’ SADDLES BLOCK PARTY
Sisters
FILM SCREENING: “THE PALESTINE EXCEPTION” Downtown Bend Library
NORTH AMERICAN POND
SKIMMING CHAMPIONSHIPS
Mt. Bachelor
PLANT SALE Worthy Brewing
TRIVIA NIGHT
Sisters Depot, Sisters
26
COMEDY CLASSICS TRIVIA Bevel Craft Brewing
29
DYKE NIGHT
Dogwood at the Pine Shed No Man’s Land Film Festival
VOLCANIC THEATER PUB
30
BEND ELKS VS RIDGEFIELD RAPTORS
Vince Genna Stadium
CAT BREED BINGO
Playful Paws Cat Cafe
CENTRAL OREGON PEE WEE
RODEO
Crook County Fairgrounds, Prineville
31
BEAVER STATE COMIC CON Deschutes County Fairgrounds
BEND ELKS VS RIDGEFIELD RAPTORS
Vince Genna Stadium
BURLESQUE SKILLS CHALLENGE
Silver Moon Brewing
WAREHOUSE SALE
Breedlove Facility
CENTRAL OREGON PEE WEE
RODEO
Crook County Fairgrounds, Prineville
KATACOMBS GOTH NIGHT
Domino Room
SENIOR DOG PROM
Midtown Yacht Club
SMITH ROCK CLASSIC RUN
Terrebonne
SUPER SECRET COMEDY NIGHT
Craft Kitchen & Brewery
THE TEACHER SHOW
Volcanic Theatre Pub
TUXES & TAILS: HOME ON THE RANGE
Humane Society of Central Oregon
JUNE
1
BEAVER STATE COMIC CON
Deschutes County Fairgrounds
BEND ELKS VS RIDGEFIELD RAPTORS
Vince Genna Stadium
CENTRAL OREGON PEE WEE
RODEO
Crook County Fairgrounds, Prineville
DRAG ME TO STARS: A DRAG BRUNCH
Stars Cabaret
2
DHH CONNECTION HUB
SUMMER KICKOFF SOCIAL
Quince Park, Redmond
WHOSE LIVE ANYWAY?
The Tower Theatre
3
BINGO
River’s Place
PLAYS OUT LOUD: “CAT ON A HOT TIN ROOF”
Downtown Bend Libary
WHOSE LIVE ANYWAY?
The Tower Theatre
5
BINGO WITH THINK WILD
Cascade Lakes Brewing
STAND-UP COMEDY
Deschutes Brewery
6
BEND ELKS VS CORVALLIS KNIGHTS
Vince Genna Stadium
CRAZY HAPPY SILLY FUNNY
NERDY SHOW
Silver Moon Brewing
FIRST FRIDAY ART WALK
Downtown Art Walk
PRIDE KICKOFF PARTY WITH CLICHÉ
Volcanic Theatre Pub
PRIDE PARTY
Craft Kitchen & Brewery
7
BARNDUSTER GRAN FUNDO
GRAVEL RACE
Sisters
BEARDS & BREWS
Deschutes Brewery
BEND ELKS VS CORVALLIS
KNIGHTS
Vince Genna Stadium
BEND PRIDE
Drake Park
BEND PRIDE AFTER PARTY
Silver Moon Brewing
BEND HANDMADE MARKET
Downtown Bend
CONQUER THE CANYON RUN
Redmond
COMMUNITY GEAR SALE
Vámonos Outside
CURSO BÁSICO DE ESCALADA
EN ROCA CON LOCO POR LA AVENTURA
Smith Rock State Park
FESTIVAL OF THE LANDS WITH THINK WILD
The Cove Palisades
OREGON ARCHAEOLOGY
ROADSHOW
Deschutes Historical Museum
OREGON GIN FESTIVAL
Oregon Spirit Distillers
OSU MASTER GARDENER PLANT
SALE
Deschutes County Fairgrounds
THE HOUSE DOWN DRAG
BRUNCH SUNRIVER BREWING
6th Anniversary Party Bevel Craft
Brewing
8
9TH STREET VILLAGE MAKERS
MARKET
Bevel Craft Brewing
BEND ELKS VS CORVALLIS
KNIGHTS
Vince Genna Stadium
THE DOLLOP PODCAST LIVE
The Tower Theatre
VINTAGE MARKET
Gathered Wares
10
HEALTH & WELLNESS FAIR
Larkspur Community Center
11
OREGON HIGH SCHOOL RODEO
FINALS
Crook County Fairgrounds, Prineville
A Gravel Ride That’s Not a Race
THE BARNDUSTER GRAN FUNDO RETURNS
By Nic Moye
Agrassroots, do-it-yourself gravel ride is returning for the second year this June. The Barnduster Gran Fundo is a fundrais er for Sisters Trails Alliance. It’s an untimed, mostly self-supported ride, bringing gravel cyclists of all levels together for a day of riding and comradery.
The 40-mile course is primarily in the Deschutes National Forest starting at Fir Street Park, heading northwest toward Suttle Lake, then circling back through Black Butte Ranch. Organizers say the route will be ridden clockwise for riders to enjoy the scenic beauty. It includes about four miles of asphalt and ten miles of smooth singletrack. The course will not be marked. Riders are expected to navigate with their own GPS and carry what they need. There will be two basic aid stations.
SISTERS RODEO
Sisters Rodeo Grounds
12
OREGON HIGH SCHOOL RODEO FINALS
Crook County Fairgrounds, Prineville
SISTERS RODEO
Sisters Rodeo Grounds
13
OREGON HIGH SCHOOL RODEO FINALS
Crook County Fairgrounds, Prineville
SISTERS RODEO
Sisters Rodeo Grounds
14
BEND OVER PRIDE
The Greenhouse Cabaret
Organizers say the goal is to have fun and enjoy the views, pristine forest roads and buttery singletrack. Registration will be capped at 200 riders. Entry is $95 which includes breakfast, a box lunch at Suttle Lake Lodge, which marks the halfway point on the course, a drink token for one beer at The Barn and a tote bag.
A portion of the proceeds will go to Sisters Trails Alliance which protects and preserves the outdoors through stewardship of multi-user, non-motorized trails and the surrounding environment.
Barnduster Gran Fundo Sat., June 7, 8am check-in Fir Street Park, Sisters 150 N. Fir Street granfundo.com $95
CASCADE CYCLING CLASSIC DOWNTOWN CRITERIUM
Downtown Bend
MCMENAMINS 42ND ANNIVERSARY
Old St. Francis Pub
OREGON HIGH SCHOOL RODEO FINALS
Crook County Fairgrounds, Prineville
SISTERS RODEO
Sisters Rodeo Grounds
SKULL GRAVEL GRINDER Burns
15
FREE ADMISSION FOR DADS
High Desert Museum
SISTERS RODEO
Sisters Rodeo Grounds
17
BEND ELKS VS SPRINGFIELD
DRIFTERS Vince Genna Stadium
Courtesy TreelineCreative
JULY 3-5
BEND ELKS VS SPRINGFIELD
DRIFTERS
Vince Genna Stadium
REPAIR CAFE
Redmond Library 19
BEND ELKS VS SPRINGFIELD
DRIFTERS
Vince Genna Stadium 20
CASCADE LAKES RELAY
Diamond Lake to Bend
JOHN CAPARULO & CODY PARR
Midtown Ballroom
JUNETEENTH 2025
Open Space Studios
MARY POPPINS
Caldera High School
ALPINE SOLSTICE RUN
Swampy Lakes Sno Park
CASCADE LAKES RELAY
Diamond Lake to Bend
RHUBARB FESTIVAL
La Pine Senior Activity Center, La Pine
PRINEVILLE PRIDE FESTIVAL
Pioneer Park, Prineville
ALL BREED DOG SHOW
Deschutes County Fairgrounds
CROOKED RIVER ROUNDUP
Crook County Fairgrounds, Prineville 26
CROOKED RIVER ROUNDUP
Crook County Fairgrounds, Prineville
30
MUSIC TRIVIA
Bevel Craft Brewing
JULY
1
BEND ELKS VS WALLA WALLA SWEETS
Vince Genna Stadium
BEND ELKS VS YAKIMA VALLEY
PIPPINS
Vince Genna Stadium
CROOKED RIVER ROUNDUP
Crook County Fairgrounds, Prineville
FOURTH FRIDAY ART WALK
Downtown Sisters
ROLLER PRIDE The Pavilion
28
BEND ELKS VS YAKIMA VALLEY PIPPINS
Vince Genna Stadium
CROOKED RIVER ROUNDUP
Crook County Fairgrounds, Prineville
DESCHUTES RIVER CLEANUP
Farewell Bend Park
ALL BREED DOG SHOW
Deschutes County Fairgrounds
RHUBARB FESTIVAL
La Pine Senior Activity Center, La Pine
ALL BREED DOG SHOW
Deschutes County Fairgrounds
LAVA CITY ROLLER DERBY VS ALTER EGOS
The Pavilion
ROLLER PRIDE
The Pavilion
29
BEND ELKS VS YAKIMA VALLEY
PIPPINS
Vince Genna Stadium
2
BEND ELKS VS WALLA WALLA SWEETS
Vince Genna Stadium
3
BEND ELKS VS WALLA WALLA SWEETS
Vince Genna Stadium
BINGO WITH THINK WILD
Cascade Lakes Brewing
LA PINE RODEO
Rodeo Grounds, La Pine
STAND-UP COMEDY
Deschutes Brewery
4
4TH OF JULY PARADE
Downtown Redmond
4TH OF JULY FESTIVAL AND BIKE PARADE
The Village at Sunriver
LA PINE RODEO Rodeo Grounds, La Pine
PET PARADE
Downtown Bend
5
LA PINE RODEO Rodeo Grounds, La Pine
8
BEND ELKS VS MARION BERRIES
Vince Genna Stadium
9
BEND ELKS VS MARION BERRIES
Vince Genna Stadium
CROOKED RIVER ROUNDUP
HORSE RACES
Crook County Fairgrounds, Prineville
10
BEND ELKS VS MARION BERRIES
Vince Genna Stadium
CROOKED RIVER ROUNDUP
HORSE RACES
Crook County Fairgrounds, Prineville
THINK WILD PINT NIGHT
Cascade Lakes Brewing
11
BEND SUMMER FESTIVAL
Downtown Bend
CROOKED RIVER ROUNDUP
HORSE RACES
Crook County Fairgrounds, Prineville
FIRST FRIDAY ART WALK
Downtown Bend
OREGON COUNTRY FAIR
Veneta
ROCK CHUCK PICKLEBALL
TOURNAMENT
Sam Johnson Park
Courtesy La Pine Rodeo
This Ain't Netflix
THREE PRIMETIME COMEDIC MINDS WILL (HOPEFULLY) ROAST BEND DURING THESE MUST-SEE STAND-UP APPEARANCES
By Peter Madsen
Matt Rife. Trevor Noah. Jerry Seinfeld. No. You’re not scrolling through your favorite streaming platform’s list of stand-up comedy specials. This short list of comedic all-stars is bringing distinct comedic styles to Hayden Homes Amphitheater this summer in Bend.
It's tempting to imagine what spontaneous crowd work or social observations these wry commentors might have for local audiences.
Rife, for the cheeky self-aggrandizement he blends with remarkable vulnerability, might quip that the Bend showgoers are so fit and good-looking, they revert him to the ugly duckling he purports to have been in high school.
Noah, whose comedy has grappled with being born mixed race in South African Apartheid, might cluck his tongue at the sea-like audience of white people before him — the enduring legacy of Oregon’s notorious anti-Black exclusion laws.
And, not least of all, Seinfeld might swing an arm toward Central Oregon’s nearly 30 golf courses.
“Where do you get all the water?”
Each comic is touring in promotion of respectively robust bodies of work. Seinfeld, famous for the eponymous series he starred in and co-created with Larry David, needs no further introduction. Also, the New York comic quickly sold out his July 18 appearance.
The youngest, Rife, 29, has only been in the comedy game since the late aughts, when he cut his teeth at a high school talent show. Charting a meteoric rise, the young Ohioan officially hit the big time with his 2023 Netflix special, "Natural Selection.” That same year, Rife self-produced two specials, “Matthew Stevens Rife” and “Walking Red Flag,” which stream on his YouTube channel. Last year’s “Lucid: A Crowd Work Special,” cements Rife’s brand of selfaware narcissism and a pugilistic fixation with political correctness as nothing short of legendary. (Also, sold-out.)
Fans of Trevor Noah: rejoice! As of press time, tickets are still available for his July 12 show. A Johannesburg native who emigrated to The States in 2011, Noah popped up on Americans’ radar in 2014 as a magnetic correspondent on Comedy Central’s “The Daily Show,” of which he’d later host until 2022. All told, Noah has written, produced and starred in a dozen stand-up specials. And don’t forget his comedy books, which include the 2016 “Born a Crime.” Throughout his work, Noah has held a candle to America’s racial disparities, cultural quirks and political blind spots.
July 12 7:30pm
Trevor Noah Sat.,
Hayden Homes Amphitheater 344 SW Shevlin Hixon Dr., Bend Livenation.com
$62.70+
BINGO
River’s Place
CORK & BARREL
Multiple Venues in Bend
AVENTURA GUIADA DE RAFTING CON LOCO POR LA
AVENTURA Maupin
BEND SUMMER FESTIVAL
Downtown Bend
OREGON COUNTRY FAIR
Veneta
SISTERS QUILT SHOW Sisters
ROCK CHUCK PICKLEBALL TOURNAMENT
Sam Johnson Park
TREVOR NOAH
Hayden Homes Amphitheater
BEND ELKS VS COWLITZ BLACK
BEARS
Vince Genna Stadium
CORK & BARREL
Multiple Venues in Bend
JERRY SEINFELD
Hayden Homes Amphitheater
KESTREL & SMALL OWL NEST
BOX WORKSHOP WITH THINK
WILD Big Sky Park
9TH STREET VILLAGE MAKERS
MARKET
Bevel Craft Brewing
BEND SUMMER FESTIVAL
Downtown Bend
OREGON COUNTRY FAIR
Veneta
ROCK CHUCK PICKLEBALL
TOURNAMENT
Sam Johnson Park
VINTAGE MARKET
Gathered Wares
BEND ELKS VS NW STAR
Vince Genna Stadium
BEND ELKS VS COWLITZ BLACK
BEARS
Vince Genna Stadium
CORK & BARREL
Multiple Venues in Bend
LINE DANCING NIGHT
River’s Place
WEST COAST LEAGUE ALL
BEND ELKS VS COWLITZ BLACK
BEARS
Vince Genna Stadium
JEFFERSON COUNTY FAIR & RODEO
Jefferson County Event Complex, Madras
FOURTH FRIDAY ART WALK
Downtown Sisters
JEFFERSON COUNTY FAIR & RODEO
Jefferson County Event Complex, Madras
26
BALLOONS OVER BEND
Multiple Locations in Bend and Redmond
JEFFERSON COUNTY FAIR & RODEO
Jefferson County Event Complex, Madras
27
BALLOONS OVER BEND
Multiple Locations in Bend
REDMOND BREWFEST & NIGHT GLOW
American Legion Park
28
SCHITT’S CREEK TRIVIA
Bevel Craft Brewing 29
BEND ELKS VS PORTLAND PICKLES
Vince Genna Stadium 30
BEND ELKS VS PORTLAND PICKLES
Vince Genna Stadium
DESCHUTES COUNTY FAIR & RODEO
Deschutes County Fairgrounds
JEFFERSON COUNTY FAIR & RODEO
Jefferson County Event Complex, Madras
BEND ELKS VS PORTLAND
PICKLES
Vince Genna Stadium
DESCHUTES COUNTY FAIR & RODEO
BEND ELKS VS NW
Vince Genna Stadium
BALLOONS OVER BEND
Multiple Locations in Bend
ELKHORN CREST RUN
Sumpter
Deschutes County Fairgrounds AUG 1
`
BEND ELKS VS PORTLAND GHERKINS
Vince Genna Stadium
DESCHUTES COUNTY FAIR & RODEO
Deschutes County Fairgrounds
First Friday Art Walk
DOWNTOWN BEND
2
BEND ELKS VS PORTLAND GHERKINS
Vince Genna Stadium
DESCHUTES COUNTY FAIR & RODEO
Deschutes County Fairgrounds
RAINIER FEST
Podski
3
DESCHUTES COUNTY FAIR & RODEO
Deschutes County Fairgrounds
4
BEND ELKS VS COWLITZ BLACK BEARS
Vince Genna Stadium
5
BEND ELKS VS COWLITZ BLACK BEARS
Vince Genna Stadium
6
BEND ELKS VS COWLITZ BLACK BEARS
Vince Genna Stadium
CROOK COUNTY FAIR
Crook County Fairgrounds, Prineville
Courtesy Bend Summer Fest
7
BINGO WITH THINK WILD
Cascade Lakes Brewing
CROOK COUNTY FAIR
Crook County Fairgrounds, Prineville
ROBOPOCALYPSE: THE MUSICAL!
Domino Room
STAND-UP COMEDY
Deschutes Brewery
8
CROOK COUNTY FAIR
Crook County Fairgrounds, Prineville
SUNRIVER ART FAIR
The Village at Sunriver
9
ANTIQUE FAIR
Deschutes Historical Museum
CROOK COUNTY FAIR
Crook County Fairgrounds, Prineville
HAULIN’ ASPEN RUN
Bend
SOUTHERN OREGON FLEA MARKET
Deschutes County Fairgrounds
SUNRIVER ART FAIR
The Village at Sunriver 10
9TH STREET VILLAGE MAKERS MARKET
Bevel Craft Brewing
SUNRIVER ART FAIR
The Village at Sunriver
VINTAGE MARKET
Gathered Wares
ROCK OF AGES: THEATER IN THE PARK Drake Park
BEND COMEDY FESTIVAL
The Capitol, Midtown Ballroom Silver
Moon Brewing
LITTLE WOODY
Deschutes Historical Museum
ROCK OF AGES: THEATER IN THE PARK
Drake Park
ASTRONOMY STAR WATCH
Sisters High School
BEND COMEDY FESTIVAL
Silver Moon Brewing, Volcanic Theatre
Pub
BEND BEER RUN
Downtown Bend
LITTLE WOODY
Deschutes Historical Museum
AIRSHOW OF THE CASCADES FESTIVAL
Madras
FOURTH FRIDAY ART WALK
Downtown Sisters
AIRSHOW OF THE CASCADES FESTIVAL
Madras
CELEBRATE THE OUTDOORS FESTIVAL
Crooked River Park, Prineville
MATT RIFE
Hayden Homes Amphitheater
OREGON CASCADES 100 RUN
Bend to Sisters
BEND COMEDY FESTIVAL
The Capitol, Silver Moon Brewing
ASTRONOMY STAR WATCH Sisters High School 14
9TH STREET VILLAGE MAKERS MARKET
Bevel Craft Brewing VINTAGE MARKET Gathered Wares
20
BEND OKTOBERFEST
Deschutes Historical Museum THREE SISTERS SKYLINE RUN Sisters 26
FOURTH FRIDAY ART WALK
Downtown Sisters
SUNRIVER OKTOBERFEST
SHARC, The Village at Sunriver, Sunriver Brewing, Century Commons 27
SHARC, The Village at Sunriver, Sunriver Brewing, Century Commons 29
THE SIMPSONS TRIVIA
Bevel Craft Brewing
HIGH DESERT SWAP MEET
Deschutes County Fairgrounds
THINK WILD PINT NIGHT
Cascade Lakes Brewing
AUSTIN POWERS TRIVIA Bevel Craft Brewing
Courtesy The Teacher Show FB
SOURCE PICKS
WEDNESDAY 5/21
BINGO AT MIDTOWN YACHT CLUB
SUPPORTING STREET DOG HERO
With all proceeds going to local pet rescue and adoption organization, Street Dog Hero. Bring your crew out for some midweek bingo for a cause. five rounds at $5 per round. Wed., May 21, 6-8pm at Midtown Yacht Club. 1661 NE 4th St., Bend. Free.
BLEND: ON BEING BLACK IN BEND
INTERACTIVE FILM SCREENING
A documentary filmed in 2022 during the tail end of COVID and the civil unrest following the murder of George Floyd that asks 10 Black Central Oregonians about their experiences living, working and playing in the High Desert. A Q&A will follow the screening with Dr. Dalton Miller-Jones. Thur., May 22, 6pm at Bend Church. 680 NW Bond St., Bend. Free.
THE WAR & TREATY
SUN-SOAKED ENERGY
With a slew of recent GRAMMY and CMA nominations and several powerhouse collaborations, The War and Treaty delivers a sound that’s equal parts grit and grace. Don’t miss this electrifying show. Thu., May 22, 7:30pm at the Tower Theatre. 835 NW Wall St., Bend. $59-$79.
BEND BREWS & BEYOND
INAUGURAL BREWFEST
Truly a beverage-palooza, Bend Brews & Beyond will feature 50+ Oregon breweries and cideries, including every locally-owned Central Oregon hopped, appled and honeyed beverage producer. Additionally, over a dozen non-alcoholic beverage makers will be there, ensuring something tasty to be enjoyed by everyone. Sat., May 24 and Sun., May 25, 12-8pm at Drake Park. 777 NW Riverside Blvd., Bend. $30-$50.
BLAZIN’ SADDLES BLOCK PARTY
15TH ANNIVERSARY PARTY!
This will be a full weekend of activities! The bike shop will celebrate its birthday with a parking lot sale, demos, festivities and a bike race. Sat., May 24 and Sun., May 25, 10am-5:30pm and Mon., May 26, 10am5pm. Blazin’ Saddles Cycle n Supply. 413 W Hood Ave., Sisters. Free.
CROSSCUT’S 5TH ANNIVERSARY PARTY
MUSIC AND BREWS
With drink deals and live music, the party will go all day. Catch sets from Megan Alder, Western Triple and Grits n Gravy. Sat., May 24, noon-10pm at Crosscut Warming Hut No 5. 566 SW Mill View Way, Bend. Free.
SUNDAY 5/25
PIANO FLOW
CONCERT IN A LAVA CAVE
Pianist Paula Dreyer has found her niche in performing live shows in outdoor settings throughout Central Oregon. This weekend, join her for a concert inside Juniper Preserve’s candlelit lava cave. Experience immersive music with wireless headphones, a live painter and natural acoustics in a stunning underground setting. Sun., May 25, 6:30pm at Juniper Preserve. 65600 Pronghorn Club Dr., Bend. $20-$50. SUNDAY 5/25
"THE PALESTINE EXCEPTION"
FILM SCREENING
"The Palestine Exception" tells the story of the largest anti-war movement since the 1970s as students, faculty and staff on campuses across the U.S. demand divestment from companies doing business with Israel and an end to the war on Gaza. The documentary features diverse academics explaining the history of censorship. Sun., May 25, 3:30pm at Deschutes Public Library Downtown. 601 NW Wall St., Bend. Free.
TUESDAY 5/27
RAINBOW CITY PARK, TOPEKA CLEMENTINE + NOT YOUR EX LOVER
ROCK AND ROLL YOUR TUESDAY
Look out for a night of dreamy indie rock, glittery grunge-pop and infectious stage energy. Rainbow City Park is on tour out of Northern California promoting its most recent EP, “Fruitless,” a catchy, nostalgic set of new songs. Tue., May 27, 7pm at Silver Moon Brewing. 24 NW Greenwood Ave., Bend. $15.
The War and Treaty FB Liberation Endured Films
Bend Brews & Beyond
Crosscut Warming Hut No. 5 FB
Rainbow City Park FB
JULY 17-19
NOW IN ITS 13TH YEAR, CORK & BARREL KEEPS IMPROVING WITH AGE. GET READY TO SAVOR A GLORIOUS WEEKEND.
CORK & BARREL
Presented by Avion Water Company
July 17-19, 2025
20+ wineries are headed to Bend for a big weekend of wine, food and philanthropy.
WINEMAKER DINNERS |
Thursday, July 17
Chefs and winemakers team up for a magical meal inspired by the valley's best vintages.
Cork & Barrel weekend kicks off with Winemaker Dinners at two classic Bend venues. With four or more courses plus wine pairings, each dinner is a decadent affair. It's a perfect way to get better acquainted with a visiting winery, with the winemaker sharing notes and stories with each glass. Top chefs have free rein to get creative with the bounty of the season. Seats are limited, so we recommend snagging yours early.
6-9 pm | Venues Around Bend
PRINCE HILL/SILVER OAK & TETHEROW
$150/person
Executive Chef Tanner Huff of Tetherow and Prince Hill's winemaker Chris Borrough
SOKOL BLOSSER & JACKALOPE
$150/person
Jackalope's Chef Josh Podwils and Sokol Blosser's winemaker Robin Howell
SIP |
Friday, July 18
Summer's biggest wine tasting party expands the tent to offer local beer, cider and spirits.
Presented by Northwest Foundation
With 20+ wineries from the Columbia Gorge and Willamette Valley pouring tastes, Sip is an oenophile's paradise— especially since pours come straight from the winery owners and winemakers. Sip has also "expanded the tent" to feature local craft beer, cider and spirits, plus non-alcoholic options. You'll also find local eateries offering small bites and sweet treats. There's plenty of fun to be had, with big money raffle prizes, a silent auction, and lots of ways to win wine. On a summer evening with live jazz and a twinkling tent, Sip is a perfect date night or night out with friends. Tickets: $125
4:30-7:30 pm | COCC Athletic Field, Bend
COMING TO CORK & BARREL
Columbia Gorge & Willamette Valley Wineries
Alexana Winery & Vineyards
Amaterra
AniChe Cellars (at Sip only)
Domaine Serene
The Four Graces
Hawkins Cellars
L'Angolo Estate
Laurel Ridge Vineyard & Winery
MCollum Heritage 91
Penner-Ash Wine Cellars
Ponzi Vineyards
Prince Hill Vineyards (Silver Oak)
PROJECT M Wines
Purple Hands
Ruby Vineyard
Sokol Blosser Winery
Soléna Estate
Stoller Family Estate
The Pines 1852
Toil Oregon
Van Duzer Vineyards
Willamette Valley Vineyards
Breweries, Cideries, Distilleries
Avid Cider
Bend Cider Co.
Broken Top Whiskey
Cascade Lakes Brewing Co
Sunriver Brewing Co.
Wild Roots Spirits
Eateries
Bleu Bite Catering
BrownBag Popcorn Co.
CHOW
The Dominican
Fixa Foods
Kitchen Heartbeets
Luce's Bakehouse
The Neuman Group
Pacific Perks
Roam
Zydeco
GRAND CRU |
Saturday, July 19
Generosity is on the menu at this gala event featuring wine tasting, dinner and a live auction.
Cork & Barrel weekend culminates with Grand Cru, where the community comes together to "wine, dine and make a difference." Get dressed in "country club casual" (or go as glam as you like) and arrive early for the Winemakers' Reception, where 20+ guest wineries pour tastes and Bend restaurant Zydeco passes hors d'oeuvres against a backdrop of live jazz.
Do your best to stay hungry for the four-course dinner prepared by Chef Franco Console of Neuman Hotel Group. And yes, there's wine with each course, courtesy of Domaine Serene, Stoller Family Estate, Penner-Ash Wine Cellars, and Willamette Valley Vineyards.
Even if you don't have the funds to bid on a week vacation in Croatia or the 80+ library wines in the Wall of Wine, it's fun to watch the bidding heat up in the live auction. And you'll still have opportunities to support a good cause. Everyone can take part in the paddle raise, raffle drawings and silent auction. All of the night's proceeds benefit KIDS Center, the local nonprofit serving children and families impacted by abuse. Tickets: $200
4:30-9:30 pm | COCC Athletic Field, Bend
S SOUND
DVan Cliburn Winning Pianist Coming to Sunriver Medalist from prestigious piano competition to play two concerts this summer
By Julie Hanney
uring this year's Sunriver Music Festival, listeners will be treated to amazing performers, diverse compositions and a dynamic, creative driving force behind it all. One of the most thrilling aspects of this year's festival is that a newly awarded medalist from the prestigious Van Cliburn International Piano Competition will be announced on June 7, and this performer will subsequently come to Sunriver to play two concerts. Artistic Director and Conductor Brett Mitchell shared his excitement over the 48th season of the festival, and Executive Director Meagan Iverson gave more reasons for people of all ages to come, listen and be inspired.
Source Weekly: How did the partnership between the Van Cliburn Piano Competition and the Sunriver Music Festival come about?
Brett Mitchell: The Cliburn connection is something that has been a part of Sunriver Music Festival for longer than I have been. It is always, of course, an enormous event in the classical music world. These pianists come from all over the world, and to have a complete unknown who, seemingly overnight, becomes a household name is amazing. This opportunity that we have in Sunriver to feature one of the medalists, honestly is one of the things that attracted me to this position. The opportunity to work with some of the greatest up-and-coming musicians on the scene is incredible. I'm a musician, period, because I had a great high school band director. I thought that's what I wanted to do, to teach young musicians. And that has been a very big part of my career. When I was the assistant director of the Cleveland Orchestra, I was also the director of the Cleveland Youth Orchestra. So, the opportunity to find these young musicians that the Cliburn has and shine a light on them... and that we in Sunriver are able to bring them to our community, literally two months after they have been awarded a medal, is just amazing. I think it's one of the most exciting things we do.
SW: I imagine it's a bit like choosing a favorite child, but which concert are you personally most excited about this summer?
BM: I love all of these programs. The French program that we open with is going to be a really nice experience. All of the pieces are French, but they couldn't be more different from each other. The Dukas Fanfare is a brass fanfare, which is not something you associate with France. The Ravel Piano Concerto is hugely inspired by George Gershwin and the world of jazz. The Fauré is probably what most folks would consider French music: delicate, beautiful, exquisite. And then, of course, there's Carmen [by Bizet] which is designed to celebrate the 150th anniversary of Carmen, which premiered in 1875, and it also marks the 150th anniversary of Bizet's death. And then also the Classical Tradition program, with the Bolcom Commedia, which is such a funny, witty piece. To have Mark Kosower, who is the principal cellist of the Cleveland Orchestra, come out and do the Rococo Variations of Tchaikovsky… and we know that Tchaikovsky was history's greatest admirer of Mozart, along with about five million of the rest of us! Then to have [Mozart's] Marriage of Figaro on there, it's such a greatest hit of classical music. And then to follow that up with the Stravinsky Dance
Concertantes, which is from Stravinsky's neoclassical period... that program I'm really excited about as well. I know you asked for one, but there's two.
SW: Can you talk about your personal journey with music?
BM: When I was growing up in Seattle in the '80s and early '90s when grunge hit, I got to Nirvana before I got to Beethoven. But when I got to Beethoven in high school a few years later, it did not sound so different to me from Nirvana. It was like, here's this guy, or group of guys, and they are clearly going through some stuff... and they are trying to say it artistically to see if it might resonate with the rest of us. And that, I don't care if you are from the 1700s, 1800s, 1900s or today, if you have a universal message, it's worth hearing. Which is why we do what we do.
SW: You are having a Family Concert again this year; what can kids and families expect to enjoy this summer?
Meagan Iverson: Yes, the Family Concert is a tradition of the summer festival, which is two weeks in August with the orchestra. One of the elements of that concert is featuring one of the Festival's young artist scholarship recipients with the orchestra, which is a very special opportunity for many of the recipients. It is a rarity for them to get to perform with a full orchestra. Also, Maestro Brett Mitchell programs it intentionally not just for young ages, but maybe for those who, sitting through a full-length symphony is not their cup of tea and they just want a taste, or a sip of it.
SW: And you also offer a unique experience for kids
to get up close with the instruments and players, right?
MI: Yes, the instrument petting zoo will be happening before the Family Concert, and this is such a fun time and a great community event, as well. Several local music teachers help to make this happen and are right there with the kids, introducing the instruments. We will have several instruments available that you can just put your hands on. You can try playing a violin and see what sound comes out with that bow across the strings. We will also have violas and cellos, and then we have all sorts of percussion instruments, too.
SW: Can you tell us more about the Van Cliburn Piano Competition?
MI: Yes, it is worth noting that you can tune into Cliburn.org leading up to June 7. The competitions are live streamed and you can see who our soloist will be, and that’s very exciting. Right now, I can see the 30 competitors and I just think… one of these people is going to be here in Central Oregon.
Sunriver Music Festival Aug. 2-13
Sunriver Resort Great Hall
57081 Great Hall Loop, Sunriver Tower Theatre
835 NW Wall St., Bend sunrivermusic.org Tickets go on sale June 1
Sunriver Festival Orchestra in the Great Hall at Sunriver Resort
David Young-Wolff
CALENDAR
21 Wednesday
The Astro Lounge Karaoke Get here early to put your name on the list! Drink specials every night. 9pm-2am. Free.
Bevel Craft Brewing Live Music: Sidney Joseph Catch Sidney Joseph live at Bevel! A passionate multi-instrumentalist since childhood, Sidney delivers soulful original songs and covers from legends like Dave Matthews, Stevie Ray Vaughan, Neil Young and Otis Redding. Don’t miss his dynamic solo set during our free Wednesday night music series. 6-8pm. Free.
The Capitol The Capitol Karaoke Music Weekly Karaoke at its finest! Central Oregon’s premiere karaoke experience has just moved locations! Now at the Capitol! Drink specials! Air guitars! Come see for yourself. 8pm-1am. Free.
The Cellar Live Music with Danger Gently Head down to The Cellar every Wednesday to enjoy live music from Danger Gently, a talented rotating cast of characters playing old-timey jams! 6-8pm. Free.
The Commonwealth Pub Richard Taelour Trio Richard has spent decades touring nationally and playing with the greats. You are in for a treat! 7:30-9:30pm. Free.
Crosscut Warming Hut No 5 Long Gone Wilder Trio Relax with a pint and enjoy great local music from Long Gone Wilder Trio. 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.
M&J Tavern Open Mic Night Downtown living room welcomes musicians to bring their acoustic set or turn it up to 11 with the whole band. Bring your own instruments. 6:30pm. Free.
Market of Choice Bend Scrabble Club at Market of Choice We meet upstairs. We use the 7th edition of the Scabble Players Dictionary. New Scrabble players are welcome. If you have a Scrabble set, please bring it as a backup. 6-8:30pm. Free.
Mountain Burger Dad Bods Live music and great food! 5 & 6pm. 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.
Pinky G’s Pizzeria MUSIC BINGO Join music Bingo (think Bingo and Name that Tune). Great food, cold drinks and good times. Free to play and prizes for each round winner. 6-8pm. Free.
Ponch’s Place Bingo Wednesdays at Ponch’s Place Enjoy Bingo at Ponch’s Place on Wednesdays. 5:30-7pm. Free.
Portello Wine and Spirits Mark Creech Don’t get stuck in that midweek hump! Get out of the house and enjoy some live music, great drinks and delicious food all while surrounded by feel good vibes! 6-8pm. Free.
Prost! - Bend Trivia Prost! UKB Trivia is now at Prost! 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
Ticket and promote your events with BendTicket! →
22 Thursday
The Ale Apothecary Tasting Room Community Pint & Game Night Join us every Thursday in May at Ale Apothecary for a fun card game and pint night supporting CASA of Central Oregon! Each week features a new game to learn. Meet new people and raise funds for children in foster care. Every pint sold supports CASA! 4-7pm. Free.
The Astro Lounge Karaoke Get here early to put your name on the list! Drink specials every night. 9pm-2am. Free.
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 at Bunk + Brew’s Karaoke Night! Whether you’re a pro or just love the spotlight, all voices are welcome. Food carts available all evening! Located in the Historic Lucas House Living Room for winter. 7-10pm. Free.
Cascade Lakes - Pub at 7th Street Paul Eddy Local solo artist sings hits through the decades, plus original songs from his new album “Oregonian.” 5:30-7:30pm. Free.
The Cellar Live Irish Trad Music with The Ballybogs! Join us for a night of live music featuring Bend’s Irish Trad band, The Ballybogs! Every Thursday at The Cellar. Seats fill up, so get there early if you can! 6-8pm. Free.
The Commonwealth Pub Shine With three vocalists, two guitars and bass, Shine covers classics from the ‘70s, ‘80s, ‘90s and beyond. 7:30pm. Free.
Crave Bend COMEDY OPEN MIC NIGHT
Comedy Open Mic Night on the SW side of Bend! Adults only encouraged. Intimate, smaller venue, healthier food and beverages, and an interactive night of comedy every Thursday! Hosted By Hopper. 7-9pm. Free.
The Dez Lounge Open Mic Join Joyful Lane at open mic night! Enjoy NA cocktails, charcuterie and dessert while listening to local talent! 6-9pm. Free.
Dogwood At The Pine Shed Let’s Have a Kiki A weekly 2SLGBTQIA+ night hosted by Cliché, with a new featured resident DJ each month. Kicking off the series in May with DJ Lunallday. Let’s have a kiki! 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.
The Lot Brogan Woodburn Brogan Woodburn is a versatile jazz guitarist based in Central Oregon who blends classic standards, original compositions, and free-form improvisations into a vibrant, adventurous sound. Whether reimagining timeless melodies or venturing into uncharted sonic territory, his performances showcase a deep respect for tradition paired with a fearless creative spirit. 6-8pm. Free.
Mountain Burger Rum Peppers Live music and great food! 6-8pm. Free.
Pangaea Guild Hall Intro to D&D Workshop Calling all adventurers! Have you wanted to play Dungeons and Dragons but have no idea where to start? Pangaea Guild Hall presents an “Intro to D&D” workshop series hosted by yours truly, Guildmaster Chris! Learn to build and play your own D&D character. Call or email to reserve your spot! 6-9pm. $10.
Ponch’s Place Trivia Thursdays at Ponch’s Place Trivia Thursdays at Ponch’s Place with QuizHead Games. 6-8pm. Free.
River’s Place Them N J Your favorite covers and good time rock-n-roll, plus tasty originals sure to get you singing along with the band! 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.
Silver Moon Brewing Mari & The Dream, Amargoso & Social Creaturez Bend’s indie rock and roll scene at its best! 7pm. $15.
Stoller Wine Bar Bend Barringer & Baker Mark Barringer on guitar and vocals and Bob Baker on violin—back at a favorite Bend performance venue. They bring creative musical arrangements to songs from the ‘60s, ‘70s and ‘80s. 6-8pm. Free.
Velvet Open Mic Monthly Open Mic at Velvet! Hosted by Mari every 4th Thu., of every month! Sign-up starts at 6pm, and music goes until 9pm. All are welcome! Fourth Thursday of every month, 7-9pm. Free.
23 Friday
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. Come join the show where you are the star! 8pm. Free.
Bend Cider Co. The Quons Come out to Bend Cider’s Friday Night Concert series featuring the folk and traditional Americana sounds of singer-songwriters The Quons. Enjoy our lovely backyard music scene with friends and family while sipping on delicious ciders, beer, wine and n/a beverages. Light appetizers available, outside food welcome. 6-8pm. Free.
Big E’s Sports Bar and Grill Karaoke Night A Fine Note Karaoke will be up and running again every Friday night. Please come out and share in our celebration. 8pm. Free.
Boneyard Pub the Kronk Men + Red Cloud Central Oregon’s own surf rock noise lords. 6pm. Free.
The Commonwealth Pub Brother Gabe Trio Since moving to Bend in late 2006, Brother Gabe has become a cornerstone of the regional music scene, both as the founder of Parallel 44 Presents and as a performer. 7pm. Free.
Deschutes Brewery Tasting Room & Beer Garden Fresh Squeezed Friday Trivia Useless Knowledge Bowl Trivia hosts! $5 Fresh Squeezed pints! Have fun with friends and play for prizes! 6-8pm. 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.
Lava Lanes Bachy Baddies Season Send-Off Celebrate Mt. Bachelor’s closing weekend with the Bachy Baddies! Bowling, karaoke, tacos, dessert and good vibes. All ages welcome! 7-11pm. $15.
Ponch’s Place Popcorn Trio Enjoy Friday night music at Ponch’s Place with Popcorn Trio. 6-8pm. Free.
Riverbend Church Taylor Armstrong x John Van Deusen Intimate performances, diving into the unique realms of faith-based art and songwriting with heartfelt melodies and honest lyrics. 6:30-9:30pm. Free.
Terrapin Flyer has been touring for 25 years with a dedicated following, known for their authentic interpretations of rare and classic Grateful Dead songs. This night of jam band revery takes place Fri., May 23, 7pm at Volcanic Theatre Pub.
Courtesy Terrapin Flyer
Silvermoon Brewing Arthur Buezo & Guests The unique savage folk sound of Arthur Buezo amazed the crowd in attendance at the 2022 Klamath Folk Festival held Saturday at the Ross Ragland Theater. However, it might have been the deep, edgy, soulful voice of the oneman band Arthur Buezo that stole the show. 7pm. $12/$15.
Sisters Depot Friday Nights with Tony Lompa Tony Lompa plays every Friday night! Sip on cocktails, mocktails, beer or wine while soaking in the awesome downtown Sisters view. 7-9pm. Free.
Volcanic Theatre Pub Terrapin Flyer For the past 25 years Terrapin Flyer has been touring with the finest in the Grateful Dead community of musicians and has become a fixture of the national music scene, playing regularly at venues around the country and appearing at music festivals. The band has a dedicated following among fans 7pm. $25.
Wildwood Bar & Grill Andy Armer’s Groove School Groove School is a deep-dive into the blues featuring Ben Woessner on bass (Billy & the Box Kid), Casey Smiley on drums (COCC Big Band), Mark Ransom on guitar (The Mostest) and arranger/composer Andy Armer on keys. 7-10pm. Free.
24 Saturday
The Ale Apothecary Tasting Room Rustmouth Homemade slide guitar and blues music. 6-8pm. Free.
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.
The Commonwealth Pub Thoughtbox with ZORB Thoughtbox is a 3-piece alternative rock band from Bend. Their unique style of up-beat rock is sure to win the hearts of energetic music fans! ZORB is a surf/ski grunge band from Bend, Oregon. Get ZORBED! 7pm. Free.
McKenzie General Store & Obsidian Grill Use’ta Do at McKenzie General Store McKenzie General Store loves being able to provide free family friendly live music to our community of locals, adventures and travelers alike! With our outdoor beirgarden, restaurant and general store we’re sure to have all you need for an unforgettable evening! 6-9pm. Free.
Midtown Ballroom Volcano: A Science
Comedy Show By Ben Miller In 2023, Ben Miller was the artist in residence at Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park, the first ever stand-up comedian ever selected. Come watch this show where scientist turned stand-up comedian Ben Miller explores volcanology, entomology, Hawaiian history, cats, cookies, and more. This show is recommended for ages 18+. 8-11pm. $25.
On Tap Coyote Rider Kim Kelley on guitar and vocals and Kat Hilst on cello, mandolin and vocals. Tim Coffey joins as the special sauce! 6-8pm. Free.
Open Space Event Studios Improv Showcase 500 Hosted by Bend Institute of Comedy, starring house teams Indoor Adventure Club and Mixtape, with a special appearance by actor-director-founder John Breen. It’s a night of bold choices, big laughs and the kind of unscripted magic that makes you fall in love with live comedy all over again. 7:30-9pm. $20.
River’s Place Saturday Jazz Sessions
Michelle Van Handel Quartet—jazz standards & vocals. 6-8pm. Free.
Silver Moon Brewing Taylor Kingman & Darrin Hacquard In a time drenched in escapism, where an unceasing barrage of synthetic shine promises comfort and relief from facing the complexity of our natures, Taylor Kingman’s new album Hollow Sound is an antithetical long night in a solitary cave, with nothing but a small fire and a hard look inward. 7pm. $18.
The Bite The Dust Devils Get groovy with The Dust Devils: Stu Kinzel, Jim Roy and Maggie J— blues, swing and country with primo harmonies, guitars, resonators, mandolin and bass. 6-8pm. Free.
Volcanic Theatre Pub Johnny Sidney Davis, Trevor Hanks and Two Piece Face Call Me When Your Heart Remembers - The Acoustic Tour
Chandler P LIVE w/ Johnny Sidney Davis and Trevor Hanks. 7pm. $25.
Wildwood Bar & Grill Larspur Stand
Larkspur Stand, hailing from Central Oregon, exemplifies and amplifies country blues, folk and bluegrass. Since 2017 they’ve been marinating a sound that continues to move and shake hips. 7-10pm. Free.
Worthy Brewing - Main Pub and Brewery Them N J Come check out this fun band with favorite classics and catchy originals, featuring Jordan Madsen on vocals. You’ll be sure to dance your tail off. 7:30-9:30pm. Free.
25 Sunday
The Backyard Heller Highwater Band Bring a chair or blanket, picnic and enjoy live music on the grass outside behind Sunriver lodge. Heller Highwater Band playing a variety of covers. Family friendly, incredible setting, great music. 6:30-8:30pm. Free.
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.
The Commonwealth Pub Head Games Trivia Night Eat. Drink. Think. Win! Live multi-media trivia every Sunday @ 6pm. The Commonwealth Pub - Bend Free to play. Win prizes. Teams up to 6. 6-8pm. Free.
The Domino Room An Evening with Ward Davis: solo acoustic Ward Davis is an acclaimed Americana musician and songwriter known for his soulful voice, poignant storytelling, and deeply authentic songwriting. Hailing from Monticello, Arkansas, Davis combines traditional country roots with a modern edge, creating music that resonates with both honky-tonk purists and contemporary audiences. 7pm. $25.
Hayden Homes Amphitheater STING 3.0
Tour Gordon Matthew Thomas Sumner, known as Sting, is an English musician, activist and actor. In Sting’s distinguished career, the Rock and Roll Hall of Famer has received 17 Grammy Awards and sold 100 million albums worldwide. He was the frontman, songwriter and bassist for new wave band the Police from 1977 until their breakup in 1986. He launched a solo career in 1985 and has included elements of rock, jazz, reggae, classical, new-age, and worldbeat in his music. 7pm. $74.50-$204.50.
Juniper Preserve Piano Flow
Cave Concert Join pianist Paula Dreyer for an unforgettable live concert inside Juniper Preserve’s candlelit lava cave. Experience immersive music with wireless headphones, a live painter and natural acoustics in a stunning underground setting. Includes golf cart transport, bar and optional charcuterie. 6:30pm. $20-$50.
River’s Place Trivia! Free to play and prizes to win! UKB Trivia hosts this fun meeting of the minds. Check out our mimosa menu! Noon-2pm. Free.
River’s Place Bill Keale Hawaiian music, slack key guitar, pop and folk. 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.
Sisters Depot Trivia Night Join us for a funfilled hour! The trivia continues every other week after March 16—don’t miss out! 5-6pm. Free.
Volcanic Theatre Pub Israel Vibration, Duane Stephenson & Roots Radics 7pm. $40. Worthy Brewing - Main Pub and Brewery Travis Ehrnstrom Band A free, family-friendly evening of Americana, folk-rock and heartfelt storytelling. Relax with friends, enjoy great brews and kick off your summer with Bend’s favorite hometown band! 7pm. Free.
26 Monday
Bend Cider Co. Irish Trad with The Ballybogs & Friends Come on out for our monthly Irish Trad Session with members of The Ballybogs and friends! Spring is here, and our backyard is blooming. 6-8pm. Free.
Bevel Craft Brewing Comedy Classics Trivia Join us for Comedy Classics Trivia at Bevel! Test your knowledge on "Dumb and Dumber", "Tommy Boy", "Wayne’s World" and "Happy Gilmore." Free to play, teams up to six, and themed attire encouraged. Win Bevel gift cards! Trivia runs 6-8pm, with questions by the one and only Bevel Beard. 6-8pm. Free.
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 Mondays Show off your talent at Bunk + Brew! Open mic runs from 6-10pm, with sign-ups starting at 5:30. Stick around for open jam from 9-10pm. Enjoy food carts in our backyard while supporting local performers. Located in the Historic Lucas House Living Room for winter. 6-10pm. Free.
The Commonwealth Pub Monday Night Musicians Showcase: Hosted by FAFO Come showcase your sound, discover fresh talent and enjoy a night of incredible live music. Hosted by Funk Around & Find Out, we’re creating a space where musicians can stretch out, jam, tighten up or spark something new. Full backline provided. 6-9pm. Free.
Crux Fermentation Project Trivia Night @ Crux Trivia Night at Crux! First place team wins a $25 gift card! 6-8pm. Free.
Elixir Winery and Tasting Room 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.
Hayden Homes Amphitheater STING 3.0 Tour Gordon Matthew Thomas Sumner, known as Sting, is an English musician, activist and actor. In Sting’s distinguished career, the Rock and Roll Hall of Famer has received 17 Grammy Awards and sold 100 million albums worldwide. He was the frontman, songwriter and bassist for new wave band the Police from 1977 until their breakup in 1986. He launched a solo career in 1985 and has included elements of rock, jazz, reggae, classical, new-age, and worldbeat in his music. 7pm. $74.50-$204.50.
Immersion Brewing Open Mic hosted by Bend Comedy All performance types are welcome! All ages are welcome to attend and perform! All acts are eligible to audition to perform in a future Bend Comedy show! 7-9pm. Free.
JC’s Bar & Grill Karaoke Karaoke kicks off at 8pm with our awesome host Van! Come early to get a prime seat. Happy hour lasts all day and our pool tables are free Mondays. 2 & 8pm. 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 6:30pm, show at 7pm. With 20 spots available, bring your best jokes and get noticed for paid gigs. Laughter guaranteed! 6:30-9pm. Free.
27 Tuesday
The Astro Lounge Karaoke Get here early to put your name on the list! Drink specials every night. 9pm-2am. Free.
Bunk+Brew Backyard Trivia Tuesdays! Big brains, cold beers, bragging rights! Battle it out under the stars with rotating trivia themes and epic prizes. Grab food from the food carts and drinks from the beer truck. Think you’ve got what it takes? 7-9pm. Free.
The Capitol The Capitol Karaoke Music Weekly Karaoke at its finest! Central Oregon’s premiere karaoke experience has just moved locations! Now at the Capitol! Drink specials! Air guitars! Come see for yourself. 8pm-1am. Free. The Cellar Open Mic Open mic at The Cellar hosted by Mari! 6-8pm and all are welcome! 6-8pm. Free.
Rock and Roll Hall of Famer Sting plays two nights at Hayden Homes Amphitheater. Catch the legend himself Sun., May 25 or Mon., May 26, 7pm.
Courtesy Sting FB
The Commons Cafe & Taproom Open Mic StoryTellers open mic nights are full of music, laughs and community. Mason James is the host. Poetry, comedy and spoken word are welcome, but this is mainly a musical open mic. Performance slots are a quick 10 minutes each, so being warmed up and ready is ideal. If you wish to perform sign-ups start at 5pm in the cafe. 6pm. Free.
The Commonwealth Pub Jazz Folks Jazz Folks has been offering some of the best traditional and contemporary jazz, fusion and world music in Central Oregon for close to a decade. Groovy! 7-9pm. 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. M&J Tavern Karaoke Sing your heart out in downtown’s living room. 8pm-Midnight. 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.
Open Space Event Studios Beginner
Comedy Improvisation Ready to grow, laugh and surprise yourself? This beginner improv class at Bend Institute Of Comedy is a fun, supportive space to explore creativity, build confidence and connect with yourself and others. No experience needed—just curiosity and a willingness to play. 6:30-8:30pm. $250.
Pinky G’s Pizzeria TRIVIA NIGHT Test your knowledge in a casual/laid-back atmosphere. Pizza, beer and trivia. Free to play and prizes for 1st and 2nd place. 6-8pm. Free.
Silver Moon Brewing Topeka Clementine, Rainbow City Park & Not Your Ex Lover Taking their namesake from a street corner in their hometown where the magic of simple human kindness can be seen manifest on a weekly basis, Topeka Clementine stays perched between a deep love for the place they were raised, and the searing wanderlust that accompanies the experience of growing up. 7pm. $15.
MUSIC
Crosscut’s 5th Anniversary Party Crosscut is turning 5! Come help us celebrate with $1 off draft and a great live music lineup. Megan Alder plays at 1pm, Western Triple at 3:30pm and Grits n’ Gravy at 6pm. Thank you to our amazing customers and community! May 24, Noon-10pm. Crosscut Warming Hut No 5, 566 SW Mill View Way, Bend. Free.
Oregon Ballet Theatre 2 Join Oregon Ballet Theatre’s second company, OBT2, on a stop during their 2025 Spring Tour! OBT2 serves as a cultural ambassador of the performing arts throughout the Pacific Northwest. May 24, 2-4pm. Tower Theatre, 835 NW Wall St., Bend. Contact: 541-317-0700. info@towertheatre.org. $14-$24.
The Wailin’ Jennys SOLD OUT: Nicky Mehta, Ruth Moody and Heather Masse have grown into one of today’s most beloved acts on the international folk-roots scene. The Jennys’ live performances never fail to impress and entertain with show-stopping harmonies, impressive instrumental prowess, breathtaking songs and, of course, witty stage banter. May 27, 7:30-10pm. Tower Theatre, 835 NW Wall St., Bend. Contact: 541-317-0700. info@towertheatre.org. $44$69.
The War & Treaty w/special guest Madeline Edwards From Grand Ole Opry and Sisters’ Big Ponderoo to Bend’s Hayden Homes Amphitheater and Redmond’s Fairwell Festival, husband-and-wife duo Michael and Tanya Trotter arrive at the Tower with a lionhearted sonic blend. May 22, 7:30-10pm. Tower Theatre, 835 NW Wall St., Bend. Contact: 541317-0700. info@towertheatre.org. $59 - $79.
DANCE
Adult Jazz Dance Community Class Join nonprofit Bend Dance Project for intermediate level adult jazz drop-in dance classes, Fridays 12:15 - 1:45pm. Styles include Broadway, street, lyrical with teachers rotating monthly. Friendly supportive atmosphere. Get your dance on! Fridays, 12:15-1:45pm. Acadamie De Ballet Classique, 1900 NE 3rd St #104, Bend. Contact: 408-857-6773. jcliff@gmail.com. $10 donation. Argentine Tango Classes and Social Dancing We all need more hugs! Join us for Argentine Tango every Wednesday. Tango 101 lesson at 6:30pm, followed by a práctica from 7:15-9:30pm. Lesson suitable for brand new (or experienced) beginners. No partner or shoes required (but socks are nice!) Check Facebook for latest info. Wednesdays, 6:30-9:30pm. Sons of Norway Hall, 549 NW Harmon Blvd., Bend. Contact: 901-550-5671. aneezerk@gmail.com. $10.
FILM EVENTS
"Blend: On Being Black in Bend—Film Screening" Join us for a free screening of “Blend: On Being Black in Bend,” followed by a Q&A with Dr. Dalton Miller-Jones. We’re raising funds to support “My Friend Dalton,” a new documentary telling Dalton’s life story through the voices of those who know him best. Sat, May 17, 5-7:30pm and Thu, May 22, 6-8pm. Bend Church, 680 NW Bond Street, Bend. Contact: 541-948-9334. info@liberationendured. com. Free.
Film Screening: "The Palestine Exception" The Palestine Exception tells the story of the largest anti-war movement since the 1970s as students, faculty and staff on campuses across the U.S. demand divestment from companies doing business with Israel and an end to the war on Gaza. The documentary features diverse academics explaining the history of censorship. May 25, 3:30-5pm. Deschutes Public Library-Downtown, 601 NW Wall Street, Bend. Contact: no phone. ksnowstar@gmail.com. Free.
ARTS + CRAFTS
Art Viewing Visit Sagebrushers Art Society in beautiful Bend to see lovely work, paintings and greeting cards by local artists. New exhibit every 8 weeks. Visit Sagebrushersartofbend.com for information on current shows. Wednesdays, 1-4pm, Fridays, 1-4pm and Saturdays, 1-4pm. Sagebrushers Art Society, 117 SW Roosevelt Ave., Bend. Contact: 541-617-0900. Free.
PRESENTATIONS + EXHIBITS
Artist Showcase: Heavenly Morel The featured artist showcase has new creations by Julie Hamilton, a Central Oregon artist known for her love of foraging wild mushrooms, vividly captured in a traditional botanical illustration style. May 23, 10am-5pm. Makin’ It Local, 281 W Cascade Avenue, Sisters. Contact: 541-904-4722. Free.
Goat Curious: A Beginner’s Guide to Raising Happy Goats Dreaming of fresh goat milk, cozy goat fiber or just the joy of having quirky, loveable goats in your life? This free interactive workshop will help you understand the essentials of goat care, breeding and infrastructure. May 21, 11am-12:30pm. Redmond Public Library, 827 SW Deschutes Ave., Redmond. Contact: 541-312-1063. beccar@dpls.lib.or.us. Free.
WORDS
Coming Down the Mountain: A Poetry
Reading Join Gary Lark for an immersive event as he reads from his most recent book of poems, "Coming Down the Mountain," where he captures Oregon’s essence through poetry of land and people. May 22, 6-7pm. Downtown Bend Library - Brooks Room, 601 NW Wall St,, Bend. Contact: 541-312-1063. beccar@dpls.lib.or.us. Free.
ETC.
2025 Bend Women’s Expo Join Us for a fun-filled day at the Bend Women’s Expo! Mark your calendars for a vibrant celebration of women, community, and connection at the Bend Women’s Expo. Explore interactive zones designed to inspire and energize, including:The Goddess Lounge: A serene space for wellness lovers. Dive into rejuvenating mini-sessions in yoga, breathwork, and more, all while connecting with local wellness vendors.The Foodie Lounge: A culinary haven where you can indulge in delicious samples and witness live demonstrations from talented chefs, bringing a tasty touch to your day.But that’s not all! Our outdoor space offers exciting demos and workshops, giving you the chance to try new activities like mountain biking and other thrilling outdoor adventures. Plus, don’t miss out on the array of women-owned businesses, breakout classes, and unique shopping experiences that will fill the event with excitement and inspiration.This is more than just an expo—it’s a celebration of women and the many ways we thrive. Grab your friends and enjoy a day of fun, empowerment, and discovery. May 24, 10am-5pm. Seventh Mountain Resort, 18575 SW Century Dr., Bend. Contact: 541-323-0964.
Bingo at Midtown Yacht Club Join us for Bingo at Midtown Yacht Club! 5 Rounds of Bingo for $5 Per Round. All Bingo proceeds will go toward Street Dog Hero. Food, drinks & adoptable dogs! May 21, 6-8pm. Midtown Yacht Club, 1661 NE Fourth St., Bend. Contact: (503)329-7612. becky@streetdoghero.org. Free.
OUTDOOR EVENTS
30th Anniversary Hike Join the Deschutes Land Trust, Rika Ayotte and Carol Wall for a 30th anniversary history walk at one of the Land Trust’s flagship Preserves: Camp Polk Meadow Preserve. Explore the starring role that Camp Polk played in the history of Central Oregon. May 23, 10am-Noon. Camp Polk Meadow Preserve, outside Sisters, Sisters. Contact: 541-330-0017. event@deschuteslandtrust.org. Free.
Bend Adult Volleyball Bend Hoops adult open gym volleyball sessions offer players a chance to get together and enjoy some competition. To sign up, go to meetup.com and RSVP. Bring exact change. Sundays, 7-9pm and Saturdays, 7:30pm. Bend Hoops, 1307 NE 1st St, Bend. $10.
Bird Walk Join the Deschutes Land Trust and Aaron Jenkins for a bird walk at Camp Polk Meadow Preserve. With ponderosa pine forest, wet and dry meadows and a portion of Whychus Creek, the Preserve is one of Central Oregon’s birding hot spots! May 22, 8-11am. Camp Polk Meadow Preserve, outside Sisters, Sisters. Contact: 541330-0017. event@deschuteslandtrust.org. Free.
Blazin Saddles Block Party Blazin Saddles 15 year celebration + Sisters Stampede! Parking lot sale, race packet pick-up, free shuttles, demos and festivities. Sat, May 24, 10am-5:30pm, Sun, May 25, 10am-5:30pm and Mon, May 26, 10am-5pm. Blazin Saddles Cycle N Supply, 413 W Hood Ave, Sisters. Contact: 541719-1213. info@blazinsaddleshub.com. Free.
Redmond Running Group Run All levels welcome. Find the Redmond Oregon Running Klub on Facebook for weekly run details. Thursdays, 6:15pm. Contact: rundanorun1985@gmail. com. Free.
Restoration Tour Join the Deschutes Land Trust and Jason Grant for a restoration tour of Ochoco Preserve. Last year, the Land Trust completed the second phase of a major project to shape the future of Ochoco Preserve! May 22, 5:307:30pm. Ochoco Preserve, Details + Directions shared on registration!, Prineville. Contact: 541330-0017. event@deschuteslandtrust.org. Free.
Think Wild Story Time Think Wild is visiting from Bend to share a special storytime about wildlife conservation. Look for their visits once a month at the Jefferson County Library’s Tuesday Storytimes. Tue, April 29, 10-11am, Tue, May 27, 10-11am, Tue, June 24, 10-11am and Tue, July 29, 10-11am. Jefferson County Library, 241 SE 7th St., Madras. Contact: hailee@thinkwildco. org. Free.
Wildflower Hike Join Deschutes Land Trust and Melinda Walker for a spring hike at Whychus Canyon Preserve. Search for balsamroot, pale blue flax and other beauties all while enjoying the varied terrain and trails at the Preserve. May 24, 9-11:30am. Join the Deschutes Land Trust and Carol Moorehead for a spring wildflower hike at Whychus Canyon Preserve. Enjoy the sights and sounds of springtime on a hike beneath towering ponderosa pines while heading down to Whychus Creek. Explore ancient juniper groves and search for spring wildflowers. May 26, 9am-Noon. Whychus Canyon Preserve, outside Sisters, Sisters. Contact: 541-330-0017. event@ deschuteslandtrust.org. Free.
Wildlife Photography Walk Join us for a wildlife photography walk at Riley Ranch Nature Reserve and discover the beauty of Central Oregon through your lens. May 21, 4-6pm. Riley Ranch Nature Preserve, 19975 Glen Vista Road, Bend. Contact: becca@thinkwildco.org. Free.
Bill Keale brings Hawaiian music, slack key guitar, pop and folk tunes to River’s Place Sun., May 25, 5pm.
Courtesy River's Place
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.
General Volunteer Opportunities For information on volunteer opportunities at Bethlehem Inn please contact Courtney, Community Engagement Coordinator, at volunteer@bethleheminn.org. Fourth Thursday of every month. Bethlehem Inn, 3705 N Hwy 97, Bend. Contact: 541-322-8768 x11. volunteer@bethleheminn. org.
NeighborImpact Volunteer Opportunities Support NeighborImpact and its programs! Click the link below to register as a volunteer, then browse open opportunities. Roles needed: Food Bank (repack, drivers, check-In), HomeSource (co-teachers), facilities (weeding, woodchips, painting), Special Events (Empty Bowls, Foodie Crawl, Toys for Tots), and more! Mondays-Fridays. NeighborImpact Office - Redmond, 2303 SW First St., Redmond. Contact: 541419-2595. grantj@neighborimpact.org. Free.
Remond Family Kitchen Dinner Family Kitchen is continuing to provide nutritious meals to anyone in need now in Redmond! They need volunteers to prepare dinners and clean up afterward on Mondays - Fridays, from 2-4:30pm. Email Tori (see below) with any questions, or sign up here: https://www.signupgenius. com/go/RedmondDinner Mondays-Fridays, 2-4:30pm. Mountain View Fellowship, 1475 SW 35th St, Redmond. Contact: 631-942-3528. tori@ familykitchen.org. Free.
Thrive Moving Volunteers Support your neighbors by helping them move to their new home. If interested, fill out the volunteer form or reach out! Ongoing. Contact: 541-728-1022. TCOmoving22@gmail.com.
Volunteer at the Bend ReStore If you want to help make affordable homeownership a reality for individuals and families in Central Oregon, consider volunteering at the Bend ReStore! For inquiries, please email: Volunteer@brhabitat. org. Ongoing, 9am-5pm. Habitat for Humanity ReStore, 224 NE Thurston Ave., Bend. Contact: 541-312-6709. Volunteer@brhabitat.org. Free.
Volunteer CASAs Needed CASA stands for Court Appointed Special Advocate. They are community volunteers who advocate solely for the best interest of children and youth in foster care. Our pre-service training classes are designed to equip you with the knowledge and skills needed to effectively advocate for these children. Apply today at casaofcentraloregon.org/volunteer. Ongoing. Rosie Bareis community campus, 1010 NW 14th Street, Bend. Contact: 541-389-1618. enoyes@casaofcentraloregon.org. Free.
Volunteer for Foster Dogs Volunteer to be a dog foster parent! Help dogs to get adopted after transitioning from shelters to Herding Dog Rescue. There is a huge need and it is very rewarding, giving you a sense of purpose. Each dog is special. Fill out a foster application at www.HDRescueoregon.com Thursdays. Contact: 458-292-8362. HDRescueoregon.com.
Volunteer Opportunity! Volunteers wanted: Mustangs to the Rescue (MTTR) a (5013c nonprofit) desires help with all aspects of horse care. No experience necessary. Call 541-3308943 and leave a message. Mondays-Sundays, 9am-4:30pm. Mustangs to the Rescue, 21670 McGilvray Road, Bend. Contact: 541-330-8943. volunteer@mustangstotherescue. Free.
Volunteer with Salvation Army The Salvation Army has a wide variety of volunteer opportunities for almost every age. Salvation Army has an emergency food pantry, the groups visit residents of assisted living centers and make up gifts for veterans and the homeless. Ongoing. Contact: 541-389-8888.
Volunteer, Feed the Masses! At Family Kitchen, the mission is to serve anyone who needs nutritious meals in a safe and caring environment. They have tons of volunteer needs - servers, cooks, shoppers, and more. Groups and teams wanted! Monthly or quarterly opportunities! Visit familykitchen.org/volunteer to fill out a volunteer interest form. Mondays-Sundays. Family Kitchen, 231 NW Idaho, Bend. Contact: tori@familykitchen.org. Free.
Volunteer: Help Businesses Prosper! Share your professional and business expertise. Become a volunteer mentor with SCORE in Central Oregon. The chapter is growing. Your experience and knowledge will be valued by both new and existing businesses in the community. To apply, call 541-316-0662 or visit centraloregon. score.org/volunteer. Fri, Aug. 26 and Ongoing. Contact: 541-316-0662.
Volunteering in Oregon’s High Desert with ONDA Oregon Natural Desert Association is a nonprofit dedicated to protecting, defending and restoring Oregon’s high desert. They engage the public in their work to improve the health of desert ecosystems by leading guided, small group, volunteer service trips in some of eastern Oregon’s most remote and beautiful landscapes. Visit www.onda. org/trips to find the full calendar and descriptions of current volunteer trip offerings. Ongoing.
Volunteers Needed for Humane Society Thrift Store Do you love animals and discovering “new” treasures? Then volunteering at the HSCO Thrift Store is a great way to combine your passions while helping raise funds to provide animal welfare services for the local community. For more information visit the website at www. hsco.org/volunteer. Ongoing. Humane Society Thrift Shop, 61220 S. Highway 97, Bend. Contact: 541-241-3840. abigail@hsco.org.
Volunteers Needed! Calling all horse lovers! Happy Trails Horse Rescue needs volunteers! Can you help us help horses? New Volunteer Orientation the first and third Sundays at 10 am or call to schedule! Every other Sunday, 10-11am. Happy Trails Horse Rescue, 18929 Couch Market Rd, Bend. Contact: 541-241-0783. hthrvolunteer@yahoo.com. Free.
WWOLF Volunteer Work Party Willing Workers on Local Farms (WWOLF) is a community program of Central Oregon Locavore with the goal of lending a hand to local farmers and ranchers while educating participants about the true nature of local food. Fields Farm would like our help to plant potatoes, a popular Central Oregon storage crop. Other tasks will be available, too, based on participants age and ability. May 22, 9am-1pm. Fields Farm, 61915 Pettigrew Rd., Bend. Contact: leighana@centraloregonlocavore.org. Free. Willing Workers on Local Farms (WWOLF) is a community program of Central Oregon Locavore with the goal of lending a hand to local farmers and ranchers while educating participants about the true nature of local food. This event will be at Well Rooted Produce in Tumalo. The crew is excited for our help in transplanting flowers. Other tasks will be available, too, based on participants age and ability. May 24, 9am-1pm. Well Rooted Farm, 20377 Swalley Road, Redmond. Contact: leighana@centraloregonlocavore.org. Free.
GROUPS
+ MEETUPS
Authentic Relating Games Night
Authentic relating games are designed to create a safe and supportive environment where individuals can explore their thoughts, feelings, and experiences without judgment. These activities often involve open-ended questions, prompts, and playful exercises that encourage participants to share their truths and listen deeply to one another. May 22, 6-7:30pm. Hanai Center, 62430 Eagle Road, Bend. Contact: 415-378-5722. suzettehibble@mac.com. $20.
Bend Chess and Go Club Casual gathering for players of Chess and Go/Baduk/Weiqi. Informal and welcoming to players of all skill levels. We love teaching new people! Wednesdays, 6-9pm. Crux Fermentation Project, 50 SW Division St., Bend. Contact: 425-354-8867. leifawiebe@gmail.com. Free.
Bend Pinochle Club $7 for non-members. If you have any questions or desire more information please contact us at bendpinochle@gmail. com, leave a message at 541-389-1752, or go to our website bendpinochle.com for details. All ages welcome. Thursdays, 11:30am-3pm and Fridays, 11:30am-3pm. Golden Age Card Club, 40 SE 5th St, Bend. Contact: 541-389-1752. Free.
Bend Ukelele Group (BUGs) Do you play Uke? Like to learn to play? Beginners and experienced players all welcome to join the fun every Tuesday at 6:30-8pm at Big E’s just off 3rd street near Reed Market. Go play with the group! Tue, Dec. 6, 6:30pm and Tuesdays, 6:30pm. Contact: 206-707-6337. Free.
Engage Deschutes - Politics Social Club Join us for Politics Night at Unofficial Logging every 4th Thursday! This month’s theme is Elections—chat with those who have run or are running for office. No tickets, no stuffy presentations—just casual conversation over beers about making local change. It’s easier than you think! Fourth Thursday of every month, 6-8pm. Unofficial Logging Co., 910 NW Harriman St., Bend. Contact: 510-761-5230. jheylin@gmail.com. Free.
LandWatch Spring Mixer Want to protect the natural world and create smart, thriving cities and towns? Come meet the Central Oregon LandWatch team and learn about their recent efforts and find out where you can plug in. Enjoy delicious bites and beverages and springtime merriment. Open to current supporters and interested community members. May 22, 5-7pm. Embark, 2843 NW Lolo Drive, Bend. Contact: Kelsie@colw.org. Free.
Marijuana Anonymous Marijuana Anonymous is a fellowship of people who share the experience, strength and hope with each other that we may solve our common problem and help others to recover from marijuana addiction. The only requirement for membership is a desire to stop using marijuana. Entrance on Staats St. Mondays, 5:30-6:30pm. Bend Church, 680 NW Bond Street, Bend. Contact: 541-633-6025. curbdaherb@gmail.com. Free.
Oregon Friendly Driver - Community Class Join us for an informative and engaging community class focused on promoting safe and courteous driving practices around people walking, biking and rolling. Whether you’re a new driver or a seasoned pro, this event is perfect for anyone looking to brush up on their skills. May 27, Midnight-1pm. Deschutes Public Library-Downtown, 601 NW Wall Street, Bend. Contact: 541-668-6138. info@oregonfriendlydriver.org. Free.
Parkinson’s Support Group Monthly support group for individuals and care partners living with Parkinson’s Disease. This group is casual in nature with opportunities to connect and share. Third Wednesday of every month, 2-3:30pm. Touchmark at Pilot Butte, 1125 NE Watt Way, Bend. Contact: 541-668-6599. jessica@parkinsonsresources.org.
Terrebonne Taphouse Takeover Grab a pint & meet some cool folks at your new favorite weekly hangout. Every Wednesday we take over the lawn at Redpoint for casual networking, lawn games and more. Family-friendly. Wednesdays, 5-6pm. Through Sept. 27. Redpoint Climbing, Coffee & Taps, 8222 US-97 N, Terrebonne. Contact: 541-604-2115. Free.
Trivia Tuesdays! Bring your crew and show everyone how much you know about stuff! Cheap beer, good food, and fun prizes! Every Tuesday at Immersion Brewing in the Box Factory. Tuesdays, 6:30-8:30pm. Immersion Brewing, 550 SW Industrial Way, Bend. Contact: 541-633-7821. info@ imbrewing.com. Free.
Volunteers needed for VegNet Bend Volunteer opportunities for VegNet Bend include - Event coordinators, executive board service, potluck themes, potluck and event setup and tear down, marketing, website maintenance, help with fundraising, cooking demos, film screenings, speaker presentations and more. Nonprofit 501 c3. Free, donations welcome. Ongoing. Bend, RSVP for address, Bend. Contact: 541-480-3017. Judyveggienet@yahoo.com.
FUNDRAISING
19th Annual Community Baby Shower
Through the entire month of May, Soroptimist International of Bend is holding the 19th Annual “Community Baby Shower” donation event. The club is asking for community donations of new or gently used baby items—clothing, blankets (crocheted or knitted, baby quilts), crocheted sweaters, hats, booties, baby socks, crib sheets. Sizes from newborn up to at least 12 months of age are appreciated. Seven drop-off locations throughout Bend, listed at https://sibend.org/ events/community-baby-shower. Hopscotch Kids, 1303 NW Galveston Ave., Bend. Free. Bingo And Donation Drive Join RylieMay Rescue Ranch and Spider City Brewing for bingo! Bingo cards range from $1-$3 per bingo card. Spider City willdonate $1 from every beverage sold during the evening. Raffle prizes from area donors are available with raffle ticket prices at just $1 May 22, 6-8pm. Spider City BrewingBrewery Tap Room, 1177 SE Ninth St., Bend. Contact: ryliemayrescueranch@gmail.com. $1-$3.
With snow melt feeding the rushing river, now is a great time to head to McKenzie General Store for some music in the woods. Bend’s Use’ta Do will be there Sat., May 24, 6pm with its roots-country, Americana, bluegrass sound.
Courtesy Use'ta Do FB
Bingo Benefiting Shelter Pets Do you love to win money? Do you love to help pets in need? Join us for a fun-filled night of both! Half the pot to the winner and half to help local nonprofits Furry Freight and RylieMay Rescue Ranch. May 22, 6pm. Spider City Brewing - Brewery Tap Room, 1177 SE Ninth St., Bend. Contact: info@ furryfreight.org. $3.
Not’cho Grandma’s Bingo Silver Moon partners with The YOUNI Movement to guarantee the best bingo experience in all of Central Oregon! Not’Cho Grandma’s Bingo is the OG of bingo, high energy bingo that promises to entertain from start to finish! Bingo cards are $25 per person. Family friendly fundraising! Free general admission, $10 early entry. Sundays, 10amNoon. Silver Moon Brewing, 24 NW Greenwood Ave., Bend. Contact: 541-639-1730. hello@ younimovement.com. $10-$200.
EVENTS + MARKETS
May Green Drinks with High Desert Food & Farm Alliance! Join The Environmental Center for Green Drinks to kick off the 10th anniversary season of HDFFA’s Grow & Give Program. Grow & Give is dedicated to reducing food waste through farm gleans, farmers market collections, and community involvement. May 27, 5-7pm. Well Rooted Produce & U-Pick, 20377 Swalley Road, Bend. Contact: 541-508-5410. priscilla@envirocenter.org. Free.
Plant Sale Buy garden starts chosen for Central Oregon’s short growing season and grown organically in the Worthy greenhouse: greens, tomatoes, peppers, squash, melons, cucumber, eggplant, beans, peas, onions and lots of herbs and flowers! May 25, 9am-2pm. Worthy Brewing - Main Pub and Brewery, 495 NE Bellevue Dr., Bend. Contact: 541-316-0080. info@worthygardenclub.org. Free.
Public Auction Wickiup Storage will hold a public auction to satisfy liens against the following units: Z12 Robin Seay and C06 James Down. May 24, 11am. Wickiup Storage, 52419 Skidgel Rd, La Pine. Contact: (541)480-1676. wickiupstorage@gmail.com. Free.
FAMILY +KIDS
"A Wolf Called Fire" by Rosanne Parry Rosanne Parry, winner of the Oregon Spirit Book Award for "A Horse Named Sky," is coming to Roundabout to talk about her new book, "A Wolf Called Fire!" This event is free. May 22, 6:307:30pm. Roundabout Books, 900 NW Mount Washington Dr., #110, Bend. Contact: 541-3066564. julie@roundaboutbookshop.com. Free.
"Screenagers: Elementary School Age Edition" Film Screening Well Wired presents the film “Screenagers: Elementary School Age Edition” plus an expert Q&A panel in with mental health & safe screen advocates. The film addresses issues that elementary school kids, parents and educators are facing with today’s addictive tech. Spanish subtitles. May 21, 6-7:30pm. Elk Meadow Elementary School, 60880 Brookswood Blvd., Bend. Contact: wearewellwired@gmail.com. Free.
FOOD + DRINK
Bend Farmers Market The Bend Farmers Market is a true farmers market dedicated to supporting the viability of local farmers, ranchers and food producers who offer fresh local produce, protein and farm products to the people of Central Oregon. Wednesdays, 11am-3pm. Through Oct. 9. Brooks Alley, downtown Bend, Bend. Contact: bendfarmersmarket@gmail.com. Free.
Farmers Market Farm-fresh produce straight from local growers! One-of-a-kind products: handmade, unique and full of character! Live music, food and beer—because Sundays should be fun! Free Community Booth supporting local nonprofits and initiatives! Sundays, 10am2pm. Through Sept. 28. Worthy Brewing - Main Pub and Brewery, 495 NE Bellevue Dr., Bend. Contact: 541-241-6310. Free.
Redmond Farmers Market Here, local farmers and artisans come together to share their passion for fresh produce, handmade goods and unique crafts. Fridays, 3-7pm. Through Aug. 29. Centennial Park, Evergreen, Between 7th and 8th St., Redmond. Contact: 541-570-8946. Harvesthouseevents.rdm@gmail.com. Free.
Spring Chef’s Pairings Experience
Join us at the Bend Tasting Room & Restaurant for an unforgettable Chef’s Pairings Experience hosted by Winery Ambassador Ashley and Chef Cuin. Bring your friends along for this exclusive wine and culinary journey, where you’ll indulge in a curated five-wine flight alongside three exquisite small plates pairings and dessert. Sundays, 4-5:30pm. Through May 26. Willamette Valley Vineyards, 916 NW Wall St., Bend. Contact: 5413066000. bend@wvv.com. $75.
Sunriver Farmers Market Discover a wide variety of fresh, farm-to-table products from dedicated local vendors. From freshly butchered meats to seasonal produce, there’s something for everyone. Thursdays, 10am-2pm. Through Aug. 28. Sunriver Resort, 17600 Center Dr., Sunriver. Free.
BEER + DRINK
$10 Coffee + Breakfast Burrito Fridays Your Fridays just got an upgrade! Introducing our breakfast burrito and coffee special with our besties, Bend Breakfast Burrito. Every Friday you can get a breakfast burrito + 16oz drip coffee (or 12oz cold brew) for just $10. Fridays, 7:30-11:30am. Boss Rambler Coffee, 1009 NW Galveston Ave., Bend. $10.
$10 Wing Wednesdays A new weekly special: $10 Wing Wednesdays at Cascade Lakes Pub on Reed Market. Choose from one of the house-made sauces like Char Sui, This IPA BBQ and Spicy Staycay Pineapple or go naked! Wednesdays, 11am-9pm. Cascade Lakes Pub on Reed Market, 21175 SE Reed Market Rd., Bend.
$16 Fish Taco and House Margarita Fridays Join for 3 fish tacos and a house margarita for only $16 every Friday at Cascade Lakes Pub on Reed Market. Fridays, 11am-9pm. Cascade Lakes Pub on Reed Market, 21175 SE Reed Market Rd., Bend.
Backyard BBQ Join us in the Backyard at Sunriver Resort to kick off summer during our Food & Wine Festival! Enjoy a classic pig roast featuring traditional BBQ sides, paired with craft beers, wines and live music. Come hungry and ready for a fantastic time! May 25, 2-5pm. Sunriver Resort, 17600 Center Dr., Sunriver. $45. Bend Brews & Beyond Featuring 50+ Oregon breweries including—for the first time ever—every locally-owned Central Oregon fermented beverage maker plus a dozen non-alcoholic producers, this fest is for everyone. Except minors and pets. 21+! Tickets required; event is expected to sell out. Advance: $30 N/A & $40 alc. (Gate if available: $45/$55) May 24, Noon-8pm and May 25, Noon-8pm. Drake Park, 777 NW Riverside Blvd., Bend. Contact: cheers@ bendbrewsandbeyond.com. $30-$40.
Blind Pinot Noir Tasting Experience Join us for an interactive and educational wine-tasting experience. Delight your senses with a mystery selection of four exquisite Pinot Noirs, learn the basics of blind tasting with our knowledgeable Winery Ambassador, and put your skills to the test with a fun challenge of guessing what you’re sipping. Fridays, 2-3:30pm. Through May 31. Willamette Valley Vineyards, 916 NW Wall St., Bend. Contact: 541-306-6000. bend@wvv.com. $25.
Blind Tasting Tuesday Wondering what wine would be great for a sunny afternoon on the patio? This tasting is for you! We will taste wines of 5 different styles from the Elixir portfolio for your summer sipping satisfaction. Includes charcuterie for snacking. May 27, 7-8:30pm. Elixir Winery and Tasting Room, 11 NW Lava Rd., Bend. Contact: 541-388-5330. paul@elixirwinegroup.com. $25.
Bottle Share! Pre-funk bottle share to kick of Bend Brews & Beyond! Bring a bottle to share or just join in! May 23, 4pm. The Ale Apothecary Tasting Room, 30 SW Century Dr., Bend. Free.
Central Oregon Homebrewers Organization Monthly Meeting Interested in homebrewing and other fun fermentations? Join us for the monthly meeting of the Central Oregon Homebrewers Organization. Check out www.cohomebrewers. org for all the pertinent details. Third Wednesday of each month, 6:30PM. Aspen Ridge Retirement Community, 1010 NW Purcell, Upstairs meeting room. Third Wednesday of every month, 6:30pm. Aspen Ridge Retirement, 1010 NE Purcell Blvd., Bend. Contact: officers@cohomebrewers.org. Free.
Community Pint Nights w/ CASA of Central Oregon Stop by the Apothecary every Thursday in May to raise a pint to CASA of Central Oregon and partake in some good ol’ card games! Attend every single pint night in May to be entered in a raffle for some awesome swag! Join us in celebrating this great cause! Thursdays, 4-7pm. Through May 30. The Ale Apothecary Tasting Room, 30 SW Century Dr., Bend. Contact: taryn@thealeapothecary.com. Free.
Crosscut Warming Hut: Locals’ Day! Tuesdays are Locals’ Day. Every Tuesday enjoy $1 off regular size draft beverages. Come by the Warming Hut and hang out by the fire. See you soon, Bend! Tuesdays. Crosscut Warming Hut No 5, 566 SW Mill View Way, Bend.
Educators & Nurses Apprecation Day
We’re raising a glass to those who give so much! Join us for Nurses & Educators Day, where we show appreciation for the heroes in scrubs and classrooms. 50% off all beers and ciders for nurses and educators every Tuesday. Cascade Lakes Pub on Reed Market, 21175 SE Reed Market Rd., Bend. Contact: 458-836-7866. jesse@ cascadelakes.com. Free.
Flannel Friday Happy Hour Come on down in your Northwest best for Happy Hour! 4-6pm every Friday. $2 off drafts, $1 off everything else. Fridays, 4-6pm. Contact: taryn@ thealeapothecary.com. Free.
Friday Happy Hour Tapas & Wine Kick off the weekend the right way! Every Friday from 4pm on, swing by for a relaxing and social evening at Elixir Wine. $10 wine specials by the glass and $2 off regular glass pours, including our own Oregon & Washington wines. Fridays, 4-7pm. Elixir Winery and Tasting Room, 11 NW Lava Rd., Bend. Contact: 541-388-5330. tastingroom@ elixirwinegroup.com. Free.
Comedian Ben Miller explores volcanology, entomology, Hawaiian history, cats, cookies and more in this live set inspired by his time as Artist in Residence at Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park. Sat., May 24, 8pm at Midtown Ballroom.
Courtesy Ben Miller
CALENDAR EVENTS GUNG HO
Happier Hour at MTYC Join us for the happiest hours in Bend! Relax, unwind and enjoy great deals: $3 draft Coors Light, $5 draft beer, food cart specials that will make your taste buds dance! Mondays-Fridays, 2-5pm. Midtown Yacht Club, 1661 NE Fourth St., Bend. Contact: 458256-5454. midtownyachtclub@gmail.com. Free.
Happy Hour Enjoy beautiful Pacific Northwest wines at a huge discount. All happy hour wine is $9 for 6 oz. rosé, white, red. We rotate the wine monthly. May 12-13, 3-5pm. Testimony Wine Bar, 307 NW Sixth St., REDMOND. Contact: 5412677979. testimonywine@gmail.com. Free. At the Bend Wine Bar, come in to take advantage of special pricing during weekly happy hour. Featuring $5 off artisanal cheese and charcuterie boards, $2 off of wines by the glass and $1 off pint draft beers. Mondays-Thursdays, 2-4pm. The Bend Wine Bar & Winery Tasting Room, 550 SW Industrial Way, Bend. Contact: info@bendwinebar.com. Free.
Happy Hour Every Day Make every afternoon a little brighter with a hint of British charm at The Commonwealth Pub! From 3-5pm, enjoy drink specials and a cozy pub vibe that’s perfect for winding down. $3 PBRs $5 RPMs $6 Margaritas $7 Wine Happy Hour bites from Whappos! Mondays-Sundays, 3-5pm. Through Dec. 18. The Commonwealth Pub, 30 SW Century Dr., Bend. Contact: 541-668-6200. thecommonwealthpubevents@gmail.com. Free.
Industry Appreciation Day! 20% off for all Industry friends every Wednesday from 2-8pm! Wednesdays, 2-8pm. Contact: taryn@ thealeapothecary.com. Free.
Industry Night Every Sunday is Industry Night! If you’re a bartender, server, chef, cook - anyone in the biz - come unwind with: $5 Hornitos or Monopolowa, $7.50 draft domestic beer + well whiskey, and $3.50 tallboys & $10 man-mosas (on special for all!). You work hard-cheers to you! Sundays-Noon-2am. JC’s Bar & Grill, 642 NW Franklin Ave., Bend. Contact: 541-383-3000. jcsbend@gmail.com. Free.
Introduction to Wine Tasting Experience Unlock the “secrets” of wine tasting at our educational seminar where you will learn how to professionally evaluate wine based on its unique components. You’ll enjoy a guided tasting of four carefully selected wines, each chosen to highlight a distinct aspect of the wine-tasting process. Saturdays, 4-5:30pm. Through July 31. Willamette Valley Vineyards, 916 NW Wall St., Bend. Contact: 541-306-6000. bend@wvv.com. $50. Keep the Pint Night Join us for “Keep the Pint Night” at Ponch’s Place from 5PM to close! For just $12, enjoy a pint and take home your very own Ponch’s Place glass. It’s the perfect chance to enjoy a great beer and leave with a cool keepsake! Third Wednesday of every month, 5-8pm. Through June 18. Ponch’s Place, 62889 NE Oxford Ct., Bend. $12.
Library Wine Experience Elevate your wine knowledge and savor a curated flight featuring five rare library wines hand-selected from our private reserves. Indulge in exceptional vintages spanning 2009 to 2018, with each selection showcasing the art of aging wine in the bottle. May 21, 5-6:30pm. Willamette Valley Vineyards, 916 NW Wall St., Bend. Contact: 541-306-6000. bend@wvv.com. $65.
Locals Day! Locals Day at the Ale! $2 off drafts and $1 off wine and cider! Wednesdays, 2pm. The Ale Apothecary Tasting Room, 30 SW Century Dr., Bend. Contact: taryn@thealeapothecary.com. Free. Locals’ Day Come on down to Bevel Craft Brewing for $4 beers and cider and $1 off wine all day. There are also food specials from the food carts located out back at The Patio! Tuesdays. Bevel Craft Brewing, 911 SE Armour St., Bend. Contact: holla@bevelbeer.com. Free.
Locals’ Night at WaypointBBC Locals’ Night at WaypointBBC! $5 draft beer, $8 house red and white wine and $8 specialty cocktail. Tuesdays, Noon-10pm. Waypoint, 921 NW Mt Washington Dr., Bend. Contact: 458-206-0826. Waypointbbc@gmail.com. Free.
The Magic of Mocktails Up your mocktail game with JoAnna from Bon Esprits Bottles. Registration is required. May 22, 6-7pm. Redmond Public Library, 827 SW Deschutes Ave., Redmond. Contact: 541-312-1032. lizg@dpls.lib. or.us. Free.
Premier League & Football Weekends at The Commonwealth Pub! Sports fans, kick off your weekend mornings (at 7am) at The Commonwealth Pub with Premier League action, then dive into college and pro football fun! Grab your squad, your lucky scarf, your favorite jersey, enjoy a pint (or two), and fuel up with tasty bites from Whappos! Saturdays-Sundays, 7am. Through May 25. The Commonwealth Pub, 30 SW Century Dr., Bend. Contact: 541-668-6200. thecommonwealthpubevents@gmail.com. Free.
Tour of Oregon Elevated Flight Experience Embark on a wine-tasting tour through our state’s diverse vineyards in honor of Oregon Wine Month in May. Enjoy a curated selection of four exceptional single-vineyard designate Pinot Noirs from renowned growing regions across Oregon, in addition to a unique blend of wines from our finest vineyards. May 7-June 8, 3-4:30pm. Willamette Valley Vineyards, 916 NW Wall St., Bend. Contact: 541-306-6000. bend@ wvv.com. $30.
Wine Workshop Series: WestHaven - Old Vines, New Wines “Wine Workshop Series” of Wine Educational classes with tastings. Old Vines, New Wines: Learning to farm WestHaven Vineyard and its nearly 50-year-old vines with Nathan Hill - Vineyard manager and Family Owner A short history of WestHaven Vineyards and my experience farming vines older than me. May 24, 6-7pm. Flights Wine Bar, 1444 NW College Way, Bend. Contact: 541-728-0753. events.flights@ gmail.com. $25 refunded with 2 bottle purchase. Winemaker Experience with West Haven Vineyards Jim Turner will pour samples of his beautiful wines. Come in and enjoy the winemaker experience. May 23, 6-8pm. Testimony Wine Bar, 307 NW Sixth St., Redmond. Contact: 541-2677979. testimonywine@gmail.com. $30.
Wings + TRIVIA + Whiskey Enjoy $0.75 wings, $4.50 well whiskey, $6 seven & sevens while testing your knowledge with Trivia, hosted by our amazing Cole! Take on our infamous “physical” challenge - think paper airplanes, musical chairs, limbo etc! Come eat, drink and bring your A-game! Wednesdays, 7pm. JC’s Bar & Grill, 642 NW Franklin Ave., Bend. Contact: 541-3833000. jcsbend@gmail.com. Free.
Yappy Hour at the Crater Lake Spirits Tasting Room A dog-friendly happy hour with craft cocktails, free pup cups and a spacious dog park. Enjoy sunshine, sips and tail wags all summer long. All friendly, social dogs welcome. Leashes required outside the dog park. See you there! Thursdays, 3-5:30pm. Through Aug. 28. Crater Lake Spirits Distillery Tasting Room, 19330 Pinehurst Rd., Tumalo. Contact: 541-318-0200. socialmedia@craterlakespirits.com. Free.
HEALTH
+ WELLNESS
Aikido Free Introductory Adult Aikido Class! Please call to reserve your spot. Sat, May 17, 10:15-11:30am, Mon, May 19, 5:30-6:45pm and Wed, May 21, 5:30-6:45pm. Oregon Ki Society Bend Dojo, 20685 Carmen Loop, Suite 110, Bend. Contact: 541-350-7887. cfhc@hotmail.com. Free. Concussion Support Group Hoping to learn more strategies for improving your memory and efficiently healing your brain after concussion? Come join our adult therapy group! Connect with others who have experienced concussion, practice strategies, and learn from other related professionals on a variety of topics related to concussion recovery. Every other Tuesday, 4-4:45pm. Through Feb. 3. Sagebrush Speech Therapy, 604 NW Harriman St., Bend. Contact: info@sagebrushspeech.com. Free.
Free Outdoor Yoga Flow Event Come kick off the summer season by joining us for our free Outdoor Yoga Flow event! Step into the fresh air for an all-levels Vinyasa Flow Yoga Class! Classes offering sun salutations and creative yoga sequences to spark heat, amp up your endurance and build strength. May 25, 9:45-10:45am. Free Spirit Yoga Ninja Play, 320 SW Powerhouse Drive, Suite 150, Bend. Contact: 541-241-3919. info@ freespiritbend.com. Free.
NAMI Connection Peer Support Group
NAMI Connection Recovery Support Group is a free, peer-led support group for any adult who has experienced symptoms of a mental health condition. You will gain insight from hearing the challenges and successes of others, and the groups are led by trained leaders who’ve been there. Mondays, 7-9pm. Contact: 503-230-8009. info@namicentraloregon.org. Free.
By Nic Moye
Laid-Back Legend
James Taylor kicks off a long summer lineup of music
James Taylor eased us into the summer concert series at Hayden Homes Amphitheater in Bend Monday, May 19. Just before 8pm, he casually strolled onto stage, picked up his guitar, sat on a stool and began singing “Wandering,” a folk song he wrote in 1975.
The audience was bundled in coats, hats and gloves as a steady wind kept a chill on the evening. Taylor, dressed in a blazer, button down shirt and slacks, talked about his discomfort until a man in one of the front rows handed him his puffy coat to wear.
Fifty concerts are scheduled this summer at Hayden Homes Amphitheater so far, but more could be added, Beau Eastes, marketing director of the Old Mill District, told the Source. About half of the main acts are headlining at the amphitheater for the first time. Eastes says it’s the most diverse summer lineup he can remember, including EDM, soul, country, folk, pop and rock legends. Last year, a record 56 acts performed at the venue. Taylor, who had his first number one hit in 1971 with “You’ve Got a Friend,” has toured Bend in the past. His performance Monday felt calm and soothing. A staff member for the amphitheater said Taylor is a good opening night for them, with a crowd that skews older, opting to sit and relax and listen to a legend.
Summer Concert Series Through Sept. 18
Johnny Sidney Davis is a music producer-songwriter, recording and mixing engineer out of Bend. He’ll be joined by Trevor Hanks and Two Piece Face Sat., May 24, 7pm at Volcanic Theatre Pub.
Courtesy Johnny Sidney Davis
Nic Moye
Northern and Southern India by Way of Downtown A tasty, mouthwatering trip to Spiceland
By Jared Rasic
As someone who has lived and worked in downtown Bend for over 15 years, I can’t tell you how excited I get when a new restaurant opens that reaches beyond the comfort zone of brewery/pub food, steak houses, wine shops, and fine dining. Don’t get me wrong, there is some amazing food downtown that falls into those categories, but an expansion of our palate is only a good thing. With Korean, Thai, Japanese, Mexican, Italian, Moroccan, Portuguese and Peruvian food already spread throughout Downtown, we’ve now finally gotten some Northern and Southern Indian cuisine with Spiceland.
Nestled in the spot recently occupied by Chomp Chomp, Spiceland is still in the process of their soft open, so not a huge amount has changed inside yet, but they have artwork and decor coming from India that should be here by the time they have their grand opening. I’ve been spending time inside that space ever since it was Cafe Paradiso 25 years ago, so I’m happy inside no matter what, but I like the vibe they’re going for: it’s brighter but also mellow.
I have to say, I’m impressed with the food I’ve tried so far from Spiceland and look forward to trying more from their extensive menu. As I always try to bury myself in a mountain of food and beverages while doing a restaurant review, I started with the mixed vegetable pakora and a mango lassi. The pakora was lightly breaded with chickpea flour that enhanced the stuffing beautifully. With a sampling of mushroom, onion, spinach, potato,
eggplant and hot chili pakora, the mixed platter has a wide variety of pakoras to taste (each with a subtly different preparation) that gives you an idea of how much effort they’re putting into the menu.
The lamb samosa was one of the highlights of the entire meal with a crispy, flaky, fresh pastry stuffed to bursting with tender spiced lamb. I tasted notes of coriander, garam masala and cardamom, which combined for a genuinely delectable app. Two massive samosas come with the order, which almost filled me up before I got into the entrees.
All of Spiceland’s entrees are available à la carte or, for a few bucks more, thali, meaning with a sampling of the curry of the day, Dal, Sambar (lentil soup), Raita (yogurt with onions, tomatoes and cucumber), naan and a dessert of the day (I had the rice kheer). Tasting several of their other classic staples is worth the extra few dollars, for sure. I was really impressed with their Sambar, which had a nice heat to it that didn’t overpower the richness of the tamarind broth. The Raita is also a perfect palate cleanser for those trying multiple dishes with contrasting flavor profiles.
Next came the Spiceland Mixed Grill, which comes steaming to the table and is filled with different Tandoori approaches to chicken, lamb and paneer. The plate was massive, easily shareable for two, with the chicken and lamb being incredibly tender and delicately cooked. The balance of the smoky heat from the Tandoori spices and the citrus tang from the herbs and yogurt was mouthwatering.
Because I’m nothing if not thorough, I was also able to sample the Spiceland Chicken Special (boneless chicken breast with coconut in a spiced cream sauce), the chicken Korma and the Tikka Masala, all of which tasted very robust and complicated. The chicken was always very tender, and I was impressed by how light and non-acidic the tomato sauce in the Tikka Masala was. All of the flavors at Spiceland I found to be different than what I was expecting, mostly in a good way.
I could go on and on describing menu items like the insanely delicious, melted cheese-stuffed naan or the experimental cocktail and mocktail program, but I’ll end here, saying Spiceland has set its sights on being a comforting staple for downtown Bend. While they’re still ironing out a few bugs in service, there were no issues I saw that can’t easily be fixed by their grand opening. I’m already looking forward to going back and trying their Biryani, their goat curry and their saag paneer to get a fuller idea of their menu. Regardless, I’ve been missing Indian food from downtown for years now and I’m so happy to have the option again.
Spiceland
945 NW Bond St. 541-728-2900
Open Seven Days a Week
Lunch: 11am-3pm
Dinner: 5pm-9pm Bar: 11am-10pm
Photos by Jared Rasic
LITTLE BITES
By Nic Moye
Play Theory Cafe
A new business offers food, drinks and a unique indoor playground
Anew type of cafe in Bend is aimed at families with young children.
The Play Theory Cafe is filled with activities for kids to explore, learn and socialize while parents and caregivers enjoy food and drinks from the cafe.
The 4,000-square-foot space is located on NE Third Street in Bend next to Bootbarn. It’s an indoor playground geared toward younger children from infants to age eight. There’s an emphasis on imaginative play, active learning, and STEM activities (science, technology, engineering and mathematics.) A pretend town encourages kids to be a construction worker, veterinarian, pizza maker, camper and vendor. There’s a play structure with slides and a climbing area; an infant area with sensory toys; and four exhibits that explore flight, wind, light, gravity, magnetism and biology.
A husband-wife team with a fouryear-old and twin two-year-olds is behind the idea. Their goal was to create the vibe of a children’s museum combined with a playground and a comfortable, friendly place for adults to enjoy food and socialize.
“There aren’t enough services for kids and women. We have a really long winter season, a hot summer smoke season and there’s just not enough indoor things to do with the kids,” Eylene Pirez told The Source. “We wanted to create a kind of community hub for parents. We wanted a place that moms can come and get their coffee and drink it hot and be with their kids.”
Pirez is a physicist and especially excited about the scientific play space. Kids can dig for real fossils at a table filled with sand or experiment with light.
Play Theory Cafe will serve coffee drinks, tea and eventually beer and wine. Sandwiches, salads and pastries from Sparrow Bakery will also be for sale along with snacks like popcorn and ice cream. Pirez says eventually they hope to expand the menu.
There will be live closed-circuit television cameras throughout the building, so parents can see their children at any play area. Pirez says there’s also a private room where she will host classes for children to learn music, language and science or celebrate birthdays. In the future, she’ll plan monthly and seasonal events.
The Play Theory Cafe will open on Friday, May 30. It’ll be open seven days a week from 8am-5pm, closing early on Sundays, Mondays and Tuesdays. The fee is $15 a day for unlimited play for the first child and $10 for siblings. Children over the age of 8 will cost $5. Pirez says there will be a happy hour rate from 3:30-5pm and package deals.
“We’re just excited to give people a space to come with their kids that we know is desperately needed around here,” Pirez says.
Play Theory Cafe
Opens Fri., May 30, 8am-5pm Closes early Sun-Tue 2221 NE 3rd St., Bend playtheorycafe.com
• Incredible Patio
• Member’s Only Cellar
• Bar/Bottle Shop
• Live Music
• Weekly Winemaker’s Sampling
OR 97756
Parents can watch kids play on closed circuit TVs while eating.
Kids can go inside different businesses in the pretend town.
The playground is designed for kids under age 8.
Photos by Nic Moye
C Movement Enthusiast Unlocks Joy Through Dance
CULTURE
Local
entrepreneur, Elise Porter, provides therapeutic movement, mobility and strength training services focused on rebalancing the body.
By Tiffany Neptune
Born to dance, Elise Porter, a Bend resident and local movement aficionado, pursues her life’s purpose by helping “humans get unstuck and release into the full joy of movement expression.”
Propelling herself into as many styles of dance as possible, from high-school belly dancing classes and ballet-modern fusion in college, she’d jumped at every dance opportunity from hip-hop to jazz to ballroom, and, one of her favorites, tango, once she’d relocated to the PNW. Porter later discovered the free-flowing arts of contact dance and contact beyond contact dance, which to her, perfectly blend movement and therapy.
A longtime recreational athlete with a background as a personal trainer and running coach, Porter left rainy Seattle years ago on a whim, accepting an invite on a cross-country bike tour with a friend, having never considered herself a bicyclist. It was exactly what she needed to start breaking out of Seasonal Affective Disorder and ongoing anxiety. But several months after her 4,600-mile, six-month trek — including speaking engagements for what she and her then boyfriend called their RAD (Ride Above Depression) tour — her back started hurting.
When physical therapy didn’t help, an MRI confirmed Porter had a rare medical emergency – Cauda equina syndrome, requiring surgery and leaving her in the dark whether she would be left paralyzed from the waist down. Over the course of a year committed to physical healing post surgery, she recovered mobility and most of her sensation.
“Movement is medicine,” Porter emphasized, and the only thing that helps her feel good when experiencing depression or anxiety.
With renewed gratitude for her recovered mobility and passion for helping others do the same, after a stint working as a mental health recovery coach she
became a wilderness guide. She later completed yoga instructor training and taught Vinyasa Flow classes, then worked as an assisted stretch practitioner before transitioning back into personal training.
“I was realizing people didn’t need just mobility, they also needed strength,” she said, elaborating how her background in functional fitness, corrective exercise and mental health informed a new way of working with clients.
Porter has since returned to her first love, dance, but it was always a hobby, nothing she ever thought she’d teach.
But when everything aligned in Guatemala for her to join a contact beyond contact dance facilitator training — a practice integrating authentic movement, improvisation, mindfulness and a plethora of other skills — she jumped in feet first, immediately teaching classes in Mexico and Bend.
Dance — or as Porter’s preferred wording with clients, therapeutic movement — is a powerful tool. In addition to its aerobic health benefits, alongside improved strength, more flexibility, better balance and increased mobility, dancing also releases endorphins, feel-good chemicals that naturally boost mood, alleviate pain and decrease stress.
Knowing first-hand what it feels like to be stuck physically, mentally and emotionally, Porter offers her services to support others in finding their freedom, sharing, “When I see people with different ways they’re being held back, I can't help but want to help them break through. Some of my clients call me 'Release Elise' because I help them release stuff, get rid of blockages.”
Anyone interested in coaching for therapeutic movement, mobility and strength training, including injury prevention and recovery for all ability levels, especially beginners, can contact Porter through her Instagram or website below. She also frequently produces therapeutic movement and music events, like mobile dance parties and fusion dance gatherings, all details available on Instagram.
To those uncertain about dance-style movement in front of others, she encourages, “Dance isn’t about looking good, it’s about feeling good.”
Porter’s Therapeutic Movement, Mobility and Strength Training Services Instagram: @coachEliseP Website: EmbodiedSol.com
Movement, one of Porter’s preferred “medicines,” is the only thing that helps her feel good when experiencing depression and anxiety.
Courtesy I See Your Magic/Dan Olson
CULTURE
Food, Books and Connection
Real or made-up, these tales of culinary exploits tickle the
tastebuds
In my half-filled baby book, my mother wrote several entries about my appetite such as, “Loves bananas, crackers, and cookies” or “Loves to eat all the time.” Was this an early indication of my affair with food? I use that word quite seriously because it’s something I keep quiet about unless I’m around other food-smitten friends. When I’m not eating or cooking, I’m thinking about future meals, planning a drive to Sisters Bakery for a marionberry scone, or meeting my friend, Col, to have lunch at Cotto.
Whether it’s eating, cooking, or reading about food, why do readers find themselves drawn to food? It could simply be a novel that describes meals in great (or even minor) detail or a nonfiction book about the restaurant industry and its fast-paced grind. Reading about characters enjoying a meal, cooking together, or meeting friends for a cup of coffee is a peek into their lives. We connect with them as they navigate their day. It’s relatable and enjoyable to read about good food and what people cook; what we eat reveals so much about ourselves.
One of my favorite books is “The Making of a Chef” by Michael Ruhlman. He enrolls at the Culinary Institute of America and details his classes, interactions with the chef instructors, and more. From butchering pigs to learning the mother sauces, I loved every minute of his account.
J. Ryan Stradal’s books are a great example of fiction where love is expressed through food. In “Kitchens of the Midwest,” he writes, “She’s told me that even though you won’t meet her tonight, she’s telling you her life story through the ingredients in this meal, and although you won’t shake her hand, you’ve shared her heart.” Another relatable quote from the book is “Cynthia was so furious that evening, she opened a single-vineyard Merlot from Stag’s Leap that she’d been saving and paired it with a bowl of macaroni and cheese from a box.” Just reading that sentence, you understand how Cynthia feels and the action of uncorking that wine and enjoying comfort food. We’ve all been there … every Friday night.
In Harper Lee’s “To Kill a Mockingbird,” Miss Maudie is known all over town for her famous version of the southern cake, Lane Cake, often enjoyed around Christmas time. Scout says it was “so loaded with shinny it made me tight.” Perhaps Miss
By Sara Rishforth, author and bookseller at Roundabout Books and Cafe
Cookbooks featuring recipes divided by seasons are always popular, and a few favorites are “The Farm Table” by Julius Roberts and “In the Kusina” by Woldy Reyes. Celebrate the bounty of freshness by cooking seasonally!
Maudie’s generous cup of bourbon might contribute to that tightness!
The recent sequel, “Vera Wong’s Guide to Snooping (on a Dead Man)” by Jesse Q. Sutanto, had me laughing at Vera’s bossiness and nosiness. But what I really leaned into was all the food she made and shared with complete strangers (“suspects,” or “person of interest” as Vera fondly likes to call them). Her love language is food. The hours spent in the kitchen to create meals for her found family, the metal tiffin boxes full of food she took to an influencer party, and the hand-blended teas steeped for friends are an integral part of the cozy mystery novel.
For those of you who love watching “Top Chef” and “The Great British Baking Show,” there are several recently released fiction books featuring food competitions. “Mrs. Quinn’s Rise to Fame” and “The Golden Spoon” are
entertaining takes on those popular shows. It’s easy to imagine a group of people, baking and cooking each week, trying to avoid elimination. Or picture yourself in the group, cheering on your fellow competitors as the judges give a handshake or finish the entire plate of food.
As we transition into gardening season, locally-grown food is on everyone’s minds now that the farmers markets have begun. Five farmers markets in Central Oregon kicked off their season on May 7. The popular Northwest Crossing Farmers Market right around the corner from Roundabout Books begins on Saturday, May 31. Cookbooks featuring recipes divided by seasons are always popular, and a few favorites are “The Farm Table” by Julius Roberts and “In the Kusina” by Woldy Reyes. Celebrate the bounty of freshness by cooking seasonally!
Whether you enjoy selecting fresh fruit and vegetables at the farmers market, or cooking a delicious meal at home, we hope you’ll also choose a few books about food to savor the season. As James Beard said, “Food is our common ground, our universal experience.”
—Sara grew up in Greenville, South Carolina, and really misses sweet tea and southern hospitality. She reads all genres and has published three books. Hobbies include eating salty snacks, walking Pilot Butte while listening to an audiobook, baking, and gabbing on the phone with her mother. She’s worked at Roundabout Books since 2018.
Correspondent”
—At 73, Sybil has used letter-writing as a way to make sense of the world and her place in it. But letters from someone in her past force her to examine one of the most painful periods of her life. Filled with knowledge that only comes from a life fully lived, this is a gem of a novel, both poignant and laugh-out-loud funny.
“The
by Virginia Evans
WHAT CASSIE'S READING
Sara Rishforth
SC Death and Log Trucks
SCREEN
Final Destination: Bloodlines breathes life into a dormant
By Jared Rasic
Iwatch so many movies. Like, if you knew the sheer amount of film I consume weekly, you would wonder if I ever sleep or just slip into rest mode for a few minutes here and there so I can keep filling my brain with high-brow art, low-brow schlock and everything in between. Because of the downright reckless number of new movies I watch, movies that I haven’t seen in 10+ years tend to disappear from my long-term memory. Special ones are in there forever, but lots of movies eventually fade.
Since it’s been around 14 years since the most recent “Final Destination” movie, I figured I would jog my memory of the franchise and watch the five previous films in the 48 hours leading up to the release of the new one: “Final Destination: Bloodlines.” I remember enjoying most of the movies when they came out and could picture some of the deaths being downright squirmy, but my only concrete memory was the second one, where my (and an entire generation of horror nerds’) abiding fear of log trucks came from. Still, the details were all a little hazy. So, here is what I learned after consuming six “Final D” movies in 48 hours: SPOILERS
1) Each film basically has the same structure: the central character has a premonition that a bunch of people (including themselves) are going to die in a disaster of some kind. The character freaks out, tells the people around them and then they all get away before the mayhem occurs. Because all of these people were supposed to die in the disaster, Death feels ripped off and starts killing them in Rube Goldberg-ian/ Mousetrap sorts of ways…in the order they were supposed to die originally. Apparently, Death is a troll with a massive sense of irony.
2) Each film also has a massive disaster as its opening set piece. OG “Final D” is a plane crash, “D2” is a jaw-dropping multi-car crash on a busy highway, “D3” is an out-of-control roller coaster, “D4” is a fiery racetrack wreck, “D5” is the North Bay Bridge collapsing
and “Bloodlines” sees a restaurant set up like the Space Needle explode, collapse and do a few other terrible things. The highway crash in “D2” is still the high-water mark of the series, but the restaurant tower collapse is a close second.
3) The “Final Destination” series exists only to kill mostly annoying characters in progressively more insane and innovative ways. Rewatching this franchise, the one thing that started to get old for me was the shallowness of the characters, who are either all terrible people or paragons of virtue…no middle ground. While it’s fun to squirm in our seats while awaiting stupid characters getting extirpated by Death, it’s hard not to imagine how much more effective the series would be if we cared about these people. While the films are ultimately fun and have a few solid jumps, none are actually scary. “Bloodlines” easily has the most developed characters of the franchise and is close to the most effective of the entire franchise because of it.
4) The real star of the movies are the deaths, most of which are pretty gruesomely jaw-dropping. Aside from the roller coaster and racetrack disasters (both of which rely too heavily on shoddy CGI), each opening sets the tone for how bonkers the movies end up
franchise
being. How bonkers, you ask? “Final Destination 3” ties in 9/11 and the assassination of Lincoln to the mythology. Which, I mean, why the hell not?
5) The best death of the series is easily the log truck in “D2,” but then also, by film: I adored the bathtub hanging in the original, the sizzling tanning beds in “D3,” the disemboweling by pool drain in “D4,” death by gymnastics in “D5” and the malfunctioning MRI machine in “Bloodlines.” I will now have all of these gruesome deaths in my brain until I watch another few hundred movies and must eject them and make room. The things I do for you, dear readers.
6) We still need answers for what is going on. Why does Death kill everyone in such convoluted ways? Can’t he just give people a heart attack? Why do people have premonitions of their death and get saved in the first place? Is there an opposing deity who likes taking the piss out of Death? Why do they both have such strong senses of irony? Will I ever stop being afraid of log trucks?
Honestly, “Final Destination: Bloodlines” is much better than it has any right to be, with solid performances, seat-squirmy deaths, genuinely inventive filmmaking and a lovely goodbye to the dearly departed horror icon Tony (“Candyman”) Todd. What the filmmaking team here has done is nothing short of miraculous: not only have they resurrected a long-dormant horror franchise from the dead, but they’ve also put out what is arguably one of the best of the series. I would gladly sit through a new one of these movies every year for the foreseeable future, just don’t expect me to run the franchise from the beginning again…that was a lot.
Final Destination: Bloodline
Dir. Zach Lipovsky and Adam Stein Grade: B+
Now Playing at Regal Old Mill, Madras Cinema 5
Great! Now I have to be afraid of piercings.
Courtesy New Line
OUTSIDE
You’re so amazing!”
No Man’s Land Film Festival
Celebrating its tenth anniversary, the touring film festival showcases the challenges and triumphs of womanhood in the outdoors
By Peter Madsen
“No. I’m an average person with a lot of problems.”
The exploration of this sentiment is too often stifled in the pursuit — and documentation — of outdoorsy adventure and achievement. Since 2015, however, the No Man’s Land Film Festival, has sought to fix that.
The festival visits Volcanic Theatre Pub on May 29.
In a long-running partnership with BendFilm, this collection of nine independent adventure shorts packs plenty of action. But instead of offering pure “pow porn,” as No Man’s Land Executive Director Kathy Karlo puts it — the films detail the myriad challenges experienced by female and female-identifying endurance and outdoor athletes. Or, better said by the festival organizers, “to un-define feminine in adventure and sport through film.”
This year’s short films showcase a mother’s experience balancing childbirth and parenting with the fulfillment of competitive gravel cycling; a Japanese American skier details the racial alienation she experiences, regardless of which side of the Pacific she finds herself; and a devoted runner comes to terms with a mid-life autism diagnosis. Six more distinct and powerful short films round out the two-hour screening.
The self-identifying “average” person mentioned above is Marisa Pasnick, a leading Pacific Northwest ultrarunner who, in the film “Beyond the Finish Line,” shares her experience tackling the 2023 Big Foot 200, the aptly named 200-mile ultra marathon through Washington’s Northern Cascade Range. Not only is the race twice as long as any race Pasnick has finished, the Washington native speaks openly in the film about the persistent challenge of living, let alone ultra-running, while in recovery from a disordered eating diagnosis that began in childhood.
“You shouldn’t eat that. You’re more attractive when you’re thin. You’re not good enough. You need to eat more if you want to run.”
That’s the destructive inner voice that haunts Pasnick, which she and Director of Photography Matthew Williams, who owns Black Rabbit Collective, recreate in the haunting voiceover that opens the film. The camera’s gaze pursues Pasnick through the lush trails near her childhood home on Cypress Island — negative self-talk she can’t escape.
“The voiceover felt like one of the most vulnerable moments of everything I talked about in the film,” Pasnick said. “It’s my inner dialogue and everyone’s gonna hear exactly what goes on in my head.”
Pasnick met Williams through Evergreen Trail Runs, a Washington trail running collective. She’s spoken openly about her recovery from disordered eating since her mid-20s, she says, when she began her second stay at a treatment center.
“Eating disorders are so all-consuming,” Pasnick said. “A lot of people have them and it’s hard to talk about because everybody has a different experience. For me it’s like two voices in my head: the eating disorder voice and my voice. Sometimes the eating disorder voice is screaming and I can’t hear anything else.”
In the film, we meet Pasnick’s support team, which includes her husband and pacing partner. Pasnick meal
preps, trains and toes the start line of the behemoth foot race that will gain 45,000 feet in 200 miles.
“I have butterflies like before a first date,” Pasnick tells the camera, shaking out her legs at the start line. “But like, butterflies before a bad first date.”
Through coordinated checkpoints and a small team of GoPro operators running behind Pasnick, Williams captures Pasnick’s tenacity amid the towering, mistringed Cascades.
Yet the film’s hairiest moment visits Pasnick two months after she sets off on the Big Foot 200. Her daily caloric intake, which she ramped up while training and during the race itself, was difficult to re-calibrate during her recovery period. She experienced a low in her relationship with food she hadn’t experienced in years.
“It's just reconnecting with those hunger and fullness cues in a different way,” Pasnick said. “Intuitive eating is just so hard and it’s a different process when you’re training versus when you’re not. It’s all about that mental shift and how you approach it.”
The short film, “Full Spectrum,” centers on Caroline Whatley, a runner based in Asheville, North Carolina. Running has long given Whatley a sense of peace and control that social situations and changing environments strip away. In her mid-40s, Whatley explains via narration that she took an autism spectrum evaluation in early 2024. In the weeks between the test and the diagnosis, Whatley found herself hoping for the answers that a positive diagnosis might bring.
“For the first time in my life, things were making sense in a way I never knew they could,” she says in the film. “And yet, identifying as autistic is a very new way to understand myself. It’s different than the realization I had when I was 19 that I was queer, which wasn’t hard for me at all.”
Filmmaker Erin McGrady, who co-owns Authentically Asheville, an LGBTQ-centered online travel guide, with Whatley, is also her wife. McGrady said making “Full Spectrum,” which was made possible through the festival’s grant program, was the creative byproduct of the frustration they felt researching
late-diagnosis autism.
“There’s just not a whole lot that’s been written or said or researched about late diagnosis as an adult,” McGrady said. “We wanted to put something out there that other people could relate to. We’re just really passionate about trying to normalize autism; it’s not something to be ashamed of.”
Sharing the couple's journey illustrated for McGrady how autism is distinct for each person. In the film, Whatley speaks about the exhaustion she feels from “masking,” a term that refers to the exhausting effort of trying to pass in a neurotypical world.
“Hopefully, people become more understanding and that masking becomes less frequent,” Whatley says.
No Man’s Land Film Festival
Thursday, May 29
Volcanic Theatre Pub, 70 SW Century Dr., Bend Doors open at 6:30 pm; show at 7 pm bendfilmyear-round.eventive.org/schedule/68012ae9eb8a54cbf26a72ce $16.79
“
Photos courtesy No Man's Land Film Festival
By Nic Moye
First Cargo E-Bike Festival
A
new event for e-bike fans is launching in downtown Bend
“One of our goals at Bend Bikes is to get more people in Bend riding bikes. Cargo bikes are a great way to do that.”
— Al Olson
With electric bikes becoming mainstream, Bend Bikes and Bend Electric Bikes are teaming up to put on the first “Coffee & Cargo Bike Show.” Owners of electric cargo bikes are invited to show off their bikes, share cycling adventures and meet fellow riders. Even if you don’t own a bike, everyone is welcome.
“I imagine a perfect Bend afternoon with a bunch of cargo bikes with kids as cargo, regular bikes, bikes with training wheels and tourists hanging around the commons,” Al Olson with Bend Bikes says when describing the inaugural events. There will be a video booth where people can record their cargo bike experiences, a Wheel of Fortune game to educate families about bike safety and other family-friendly activities. There will also be contests with prizes. Categories include longest distance traveled, most kids safely on a bike and oldest bike.
“One of our goals at Bend Bikes is to get more people in Bend riding bikes. Cargo bikes are a great way to do that. These bikes are handy for hauling groceries, transporting kids and pets, or lugging outdoor gear,” Elisa Cheng, president of Bend Bikes, said in a press release. It is part of a growing trend. The cargo bike market was valued at nearly $8 million in 2024. The industry is expected to reach more than $27 million by 2034. Olson says the cost of a new cargo bike starts around $1,500 to $2,000.
What started as a bike to transport cargo, it’s become a green mode of transportation for families. Cargo e-bikes are designed for stability and balance, so they can carry heavier loads while still being manageable.
“Because of the way the load is carried on the chassis, there is a small learning curve. It usually takes about 15 minutes to get the hang of it. Just learning how to turn comfortably,” Olson says.
The Coffee & Cargo Bike Show is a free event being held in front of The Commons Coffee and Taphouse on June 1. No registration is needed. Olson says it’s an experiment to gauge interest. He hopes to make it bigger in future years.
The organizers have a lot of passion for the inaugural event. Sterling McCord opened Bend Electric Bikes in 2008, before they became mainstream. “Cargo bikes are the most versatile, family friendly option out there, especially for growing families,” he said in a release to the Source. “And there is no denying the fun factor.”
Coffee & Cargo E-bikes Sun., June 1, 11am-3pm
The Commons Café & Taproom Plaza 875 NW Brooks St., Bend bendbikes.org/get-ready-for-the-ultimatecargo-bike-show-on-june-1/ Free
THE PSYCHEDELIC FRONTIER
EXPLORING INTENTIONAL PSYCHEDELIC USE IN THE MODERN WORLD
By Mary Casanave Sheridan
Psychedelic Use in End-of-Life Care
Q: "I am a successful, stable, satisfied man in his late 70s who has just been given a terminal diagnosis from an aggressive brain cancer. I am reasonably disappointed with the situation but also feel satisfied with what I have accomplished in my life and accepting that it may be my time to go. I have no major regrets or unresolved business. My son is urging me to seek out psychedelic therapy for end of life, and I'm not certain even what that means. I'm not a very spiritual person and I don't have any fear of death, so I don't understand what psychedelics would do for me. I've never been attracted to hard drugs, and I don't see why I would want to start now. am I missing something?
A: First and foremost, I want to honor the clarity and acceptance you've expressed about your situation—a terminal diagnosis is rarely easy to receive, and yet your reflections convey a sense of groundedness and peace. This is a profound gift. It is important to say psychedelic therapy is not for everyone or every situation. There is no formula, no universal prescription for how to face one's end. It’s entirely possible that you're not missing anything. That is perfectly valid.
Second, I’d like to gently push back on the term "hard drugs" as a basis for evaluating the potential value or harm of psychedelics. That language stems from cultural messaging shaped during decades of prohibition and stigma— and lumped very different substances into the same category without fully considering their therapeutic potential or their impact on consciousness. Psychedelics like psilocybin and MDMA have been shown, in both research and lived experience, to be profoundly transformative when used intentionally and in supportive settings.
While these medicines undoubtedly hold specific value and purposes, there’s no Universal requirement to “try them.”
That said, many have found unique benefits in psychedelic end-of-life therapy. Below, I've outlined ways psychedelics have supported others in similar transitions, which might help you better understand your son's perspective..
1. Transforming existential pain or grief
Even those at peace with their mortality can find themselves struggling with unspoken fears, regrets, or emotional heaviness. Psychedelics, such as psilocybin, have been shown to offer profound clarity or emotional release.
2. Exploring meaning, legacy, and purpose
Psychedelic journeys often help individuals connect with a broader sense of meaning—whether spiritual, relational, or entirely personal. Some describe experiencing deep gratitude and a clearer sense of the legacy they leave behind.
3. Acceptance of physical discomfort or bodily decline
For individuals navigating end of life, psychedelics have been shown to build greater acceptance of the necessary transitions the body goes through. This can deeply change how one relates to pain or discomfort, shifting fear or resistance.
4. Greater presence with loved ones
These therapies have the potential to enhance connection, with oneself and those closest to you, often yielding profound insights about relationships, reconciling unresolved conflicts or expressing love and gratitude in ways that enrich the final days spent with family.
5. A sense of transcendence or wonder
Psychedelic therapy can often elicit awe, interconnectedness, or transcendence. For some, this supports a deeper sense of calm; while for others, it reframes mortality as a continuation opposed to an end.
6. Peaceful preparation for the unknown
Even those without a fear of death can find that psychedelics help develop a sense of readiness, allowing them to approach their passing with curiosity, openness, and even reverence.
7. Supporting loved ones through grief
Whether these benefits resonate with you, they may hold meaning for others close to you. It can help loved ones process anticipatory grief and become more present during this sacred and raw chapter of life. Your son’s suggestion may come as much from his own emotional terrain as it does from his desire to support you.
Your sincere engagement in this conversation—whether you embrace or decline your son's suggestion— reflects the profound care between you both. Whatever path you choose, I honor your inner wisdom, and I wish you peace and love on your journey ahead.
—Questions are encouraged to be sent to mary@myco.vision More information about Mary and her practice can be found at https://myco.vision
ASTROLOGY
By Rob Brezsny
GEMINI (May 21-June 20): Gemini writer Raymond Carter (1938–1988) established a reputation as a master of terse minimalism. One critic noted that he practiced the “Theory of Omission”— an approach to writing fiction that mandates the elimination of superfluous narrative elements. But it turns out that Carver’s editor Gordon Lish had a major role in all this. He deleted half of Carver’s original words and changed the endings of half his stories. Years after his death, Carver’s widow, Tess Gallagher, published the original versions, with the omitted material reinstated. I believe the coming weeks will be an excellent time for you to make comparable restorations, Gemini. In every way you can imagine, tell the full story, provide the complete rendition, and offer elements that have been missing.
CANCER (June 21-July 22): Even if you don’t regard yourself as a psychic or prophet, I suspect you now have an uncanny knack for deciphering future trends. Your intuition is operating at peak levels, especially when you focus it on the big picture of your long-term destiny. As long as you’re not overconfident about this temporary bloom of expansive vision, you can trust your ability to see the deep patterns running through your life story.
To make the most of this gift, take a loving inventory of where you have been and where you are going. Then devote relaxed meditations to adjusting your master plan.
flurry of activity, I believe now is a time to wait and see; to pause and ponder; to muse and meditate.
SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): By the 20th century, the 483-mile-long Seine River in France was so polluted that most of its fish were gone. But clean-up efforts have been successful. Now there are 32 fish species, including the Atlantic salmon. The Seine is also very close to being completely safe for humans to swim. I would love it if you were inspired by this success story to undertake a comparable project in your own life, Sagittarius. What would you most like to see revived and restored? Now is a good time to begin the effort.
CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): Until she reached her 70s, Capricorn visual artist Louise Bourgeois was a peripheral figure in the art world, modestly respected but not acclaimed. Then New York’s Museum of Modern Art presented her work in a major show. In response, the New York Times reviewed her work, saying it was "charged with tenderness and violence, acceptance and defiance, ambivalence and conviction.” I bring this to your attention, Capricorn, because I suspect the coming months will also bring you recognition for labors of love you’ve been devoted to for a while—maybe not in the form of fame, but through an elevated appreciation by those whose opinion matters to you.
LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): River deltas form where rivers meet the sea, creating fertile and complex ecosystems that nourish abundant life. Some of my favorites are the Rhône River Delta in France, the Po River Delta in Italy, and the Shinano River Delta in Japan. In the coming weeks, Leo, I will visualize you as the metaphorical equivalent of a river delta. I’ll call you the Leo Delta, trusting you will be inspired to celebrate and cultivate the rich intersections that characterize your life—areas where an array of ideas, paths, and relationships converge. Be open to synergizing different aspects of your world: integrating emotions and logic, connecting with diverse people, blending personal and professional goals.
VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Your natural inclination is to solve problems through detailed planning and careful analysis. On occasion, that process dead-ends in overthinking, though it often works pretty well. In accordance with current astrological omens, however, I suggest an alternative approach for you in the coming weeks. Instead of trying to figure everything out, how about if you simply create a relaxed spaciousness for new things to emerge? Experiment with the hypothesis that progress will come not from doing more, but from allowing more.
LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): As they climb, mountaineers carefully assess every handhold and foothold. Unfailing concentration is key. I recommend adopting their attitude in the coming weeks, Libra. You are entering a phase when ascension and expansion will be among your main assignments. The best approach to your adventures is to make steady progress with precision and thoughtfulness. Rushing rashly ahead or taking needless risks could be counterproductive, so be scrupulous about planning and preparation. Trust that the most efficient path to the summit will be via small, deliberate steps. Your winning combination will be ambition leavened with caution.
SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): At age 42, Scorpio painter Georgia O'Keeffe left her busy New York art career and traveled to New Mexico for the first time. The landscape's beauty overwhelmed her. She wandered around the desert for three months, creating no art at all. A few critics accused her of wasting time. She rejected their ignorant misunderstanding of her process, replying, "To see takes time. I had to learn the country first before it would let me paint it." Her most iconic paintings emerged after this phase of pure observation. I'm recommending a similar period for you, dear Scorpio. While your instincts may tempt you toward a
AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): The name of the old Talking Heads album is Stop Making Sense. One of its many implications is that we periodically derive benefit and relief from being free of the pressure to sound reasonable and be consistent. According to my detailed, logical, in-depth analysis of your astrological omens, now is a perfect time to honor this counsel. I hope you will give yourself a sabbatical from being sensible, serious, and overly sane. Instead, please consider a sustained pursuit of pure pleasure, fun foolishness, and amazing amusement.
PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): Be on high alert for fleeting intuitions that flow through your awareness. Really good ideas may rise up only briefly and only once, and you should be ready to catch them in the ripe moment before they fade away. Do you hear my urgency? Pay special attention to passing thoughts or sudden insights. They may contain more value than initially apparent. I will even speculate that seemingly ephemeral inspirations could become foundational elements in your future success. Document your hunches, even if they seem premature.
ARIES (March 21-April 19): I think you’re ready to establish new ways of nourishing and protecting what's valuable to you. Your natural assertiveness will be useful in setting boundaries and securing resources. Your flourishing intuition will guide you to implement adjustments that safeguard your interests while remaining flexible enough to permit legitimate access. Be extra alert, Aries, for when you need to balance security with accessibility. Your best defenses will come from clever design, not brute force. Do what you need to feel secure without feeling trapped.
TAURUS (April 20-May 20): In July 1971, 26-year-old Taurus poet Bernadette Mayer kept a scrupulous diary. Every day, she shot a roll of 35 mm film, wrote about the day’s events, and recorded herself reading her accounts. By August 1, she had accumulated 1,100 photos and six hours of readings. One of her goals in doing the project was to learn more about how her memory worked. What was worth remembering, and what wasn’t? She also hoped to gain an objective perspective about her routine rhythm. Years later, she acknowledged that though this was a narcissistic experiment, she had no shame about it. Inspired by Mayer, and in accordance with astrological omens, you might find it worthwhile to lovingly and thoroughly study the details of your daily life for a while. It’s an excellent time to get to know yourself better.
Pearl’s Puzzle
By Brendan Emmett Quigley
Downward attack in Tae Kwon Do
"That's awful!"
Yodeler's perch
"Just the opposite!"
University of Arizona site
Prefix with foam
Beat
Repeat-and-fade song segments, informally
Toast choice
1960s atty. general
Some long crossword answers
Big race sponsor
Big pig
Statue of Liberty poet
Rice wine 29. Actor Calhoun 32. Shape, as dough
Egyptian snakes
Smile widely
Come across as
Like some griddles
Net 42. Substantially 43. Ranger's concern 44. Frittata
45. Two-letter sequence
46. Main lines
47. Maker of the first electric compact calculator
48. Dark times abroad
49. Rival of SEA and OAK
52. Brooklyn-based mega-marketplace
54. Roarer
56. Brazilian city, familiarly
57. Type
58. Green, in a way
Puzzle for the week of May 19, 2025
Difficulty Level: ●●●○
Fill in every row, column, and 3x3 box with each of the letters E C H O T A I L S exactly once.
The highlighted letters read left to right and top to bottom will complete the quote: “I do have a blurred memory of sitting on the stairs and trying over and over again to one of my , but that is all that comes back to me of itself.”
Answer for the week of May 12, 2025
ANSWER TO LAST WEEK'S PUZZLES
- Roald Dahl
Answer for the week of May 12, 2025
N A E M R G C D O
D R M N O C A G E C G O E A D M N R
“Mom, romance is dead. It was acquired in a hostile takeover by Hallmark and Disney, homogenized, and sold off piece by piece.” — Lisa Simpson
“Mom, romance is dead. It was acquired in a hostile takeover by Hallmark and Disney, homogenized, and sold off piece by piece.” - Lisa Simpson
- Roald Dahl
THE THIRD ACT
A COLUMN ON AGEISM AND AGEING
By Ellen Waterston
Finding Your Voice
"It is only with the heart that one can see rightly; what is essential is invisible to the eye."
~Antoine de Saint-Exupéry
In writing classes and programs there’s a lot of talk about the importance of an author or poet’s voice. Emerging writers are urged to find theirs. Book club groups discuss authors who have it or don’t. We all know how impactful it is when words, lined up on the page in a certain way, are an arrow to the heart, speak to something fundamental in us all. A strong and unique voice makes us feel we’re in a trusted and private conversation with the author, like they’re our friend, our neighbor.
In my travels as Oregon’s Poet Laureate, I am meeting with folks who, whether writing cowboy poetry, reminiscences for grandchildren, a novel, a collection of poetry or a memoir, all want to learn more about lining their words up just so. It’s an odd phrase, “find your voice.” It’s as though our essential self was left in the supermarket or put away somewhere and forgotten. But it does get lost. Whether artist, attorney, or administrator, if we don’t pay attention, the day-to-day din of duties and distractions can silence it.
I was involved with five different activities in Harney County in April, arriving two days after the peak of what’s being called a once-in-a-lifetime flood in Harney County. Thousands of acres and hundreds of homes were still underwater. Oregon Gov. Tina Kotek had been quick to declare the county a state of emergency. Residents formed sandbag brigades to help neighbors protect their homes or evacuate to higher ground. Along with many other civic and community events, the popular annual Harney County Migratory Bird Festival was canceled but the majority of those who had registered donated their registration fees to offset the loss of revenue to Burns.
Driving home three days later, impressed as ever by what a strong and creative community Burns is, it suddenly hit me that every location I had visited (Harney County Library, Eastern Oregon Agricultural Research Center, Central Hotel, Malheur National Wildlife Refuge), and, by association, many of the people I’d had the pleasure of meeting, had recently been affected either by economic policy changes (businesses are experiencing operational cost increases across the board) or recent cuts in federal funding impacting everything from rangeland research, museums, and rural libraries to national parks. This month,
it was the nation’s arts agencies’ turn to receive the notice that grants had been unilaterally withdrawn because their projects didn’t “reflect the nation's rich artistic heritage and creativity as prioritized by the president.” This all makes me hopping mad and very fearful, but my hopping isn’t helping build community and consensus and anxiety isn’t good for anyone’s health.
In 2006, a couple in Burlington, Vermont, started something they called Front Porch Forum. Now, the majority of Vermont residents subscribe, sharing posts about lost dogs, block parties, neighbors needing assistance and more. Inspired by Robert D. Putnam’s book, "Bowling Alone: The Collapse and Revival of American Community," Front Porch Forum co-founder (with his wife) and CEO, Michael Wood-Lewis, says, “Once people have an easy and safe way to communicate with neighbors, they will!” In a May 7 segment of Judy Woodruff’s “Ameri ca at a Crossroads,” https://www.pbs. org/newshour/tag/america-at-a-cross roads, Wood-Lewis plays an example of how the Forum, free to users, con nects people: “I don't agree with John over there, but I know he's a good guy because he helped me clean up my gut ters last week.” Woods adds, “Unlike big tech social media, which is trying to pull you in and hold you in for 24/7, we really just want you for five or ten minutes a day. And then please put the phone down and go outside and talk to your neighbors.” Paul Lyons, a Forum user, is quoted as saying, “The only way you can connect with somebody is to connect with them.”
Now there’s a concept! It’s one Burns residents exemplify. And it’s one those of us pre-social media oldsters know about. We also know about history’s tendency to repeat good and bad elements of itself. Finding our elder voice in the third act and making it heard is important, whatever form that takes. The invitation is to make our conciliatory case in words and actions to strengthen our communities and help ensure any historic repetition is nothing but good news for democracy. Anger and fear aren’t helpful. What is helpful is stringing words just so across the pages of our lives, finding our voice in words and deeds that connect us.
—Poet and author Ellen Waterston resides in Bend. "The Third Act" is a series of columns on ageing and ageism.
TAKE ME HOME
By Ann Gurley, Broker REMAX Key Properties
Timing Your Sale and New Purchase in
The days of listing your home on Friday and being in contract by Monday are not as common as they once were. After years of houses flying off the market, Central Oregon's real estate landscape has shifted. Generally, homes are now spending a longer time on the market, buyers have regained negotiating power, and the once-predictable timeline has become not always predictable. This slower pace might seem like a relief, but it can create new challenges for anyone trying to coordinate a sale and a purchase in-town or out-of-state. With longer timelines, more negotiations, and increased uncertainty, strategic timing and careful planning with your agent have never been more critical.
Here's how to navigate and keep your transactions on track:
Don't drink all the champagne when your offer is accepted. Getting an offer accepted is exciting, but it's just the first step in a long process. There is a lot of work to be done during acceptance and closing. Save the real celebration for when you get the keys!
Pay close attention to contingency periods and meet every deadline. Your agent will help you track and meet all contingency deadlines. Missing even one can void your contract or cost you thousands. Staying on top of inspection deadlines, financing contingency dates, appraisal contingency dates, and title review deadlines is a big job. A great agent will communicate effectively and even work in a few buffer days to allow for unforeseen delays or circumstances.
Create a 30-day buffer between your sale and purchase closing dates.
Whenever possible, schedule your home sale to close at least 30 days before your new home purchase. This prevents the unfortunate scenario of having to move twice or pay for two mortgages simultaneously.
Have backup plans ready. Secure temporary housing options like shortterm rentals or staying with family, research nearby storage facilities for month-to-month rentals, and maintain a list of reliable movers who can accommodate last-minute scheduling changes. Even the best-laid plans sometimes need adjustment.
Build in extra time for financing. Get pre-approved early and maintain that approval throughout your search. Have backup lender options ready in case your primary lender runs into issues.
Start packing early, but strategically. Begin packing non-essentials 2-3 months before your planned move date. Leave essentials for last and keep important documents in an easily accessible folder.
In Bend's shifting market, successful coordination of a sale and purchase isn't about perfect timing. It's about smart planning and building flexibility into every step. By creating buffers, tracking deadlines meticulously, and having backup plans ready, you can navigate the uncertainty with confidence rather than stress. Remember, the goal isn't to predict every twist and turn in today's market, but to position yourself to handle whatever comes your way.
With a knowledgeable agent by your side, you can move from one home to another smoothly, even when the market throws you curveballs.
ONE-OF-A-KIND
60925
Bachelor View Rd
With breathtaking views spanning more than a mile of the Deschutes River, this mountain modern home has a one-of-a-kind westside location with deeded river/forest service access. Every detail exudes exceptional craftsmanship. Slide-and-stack floor-to-ceiling glass doors expand indoor spaces to multiple paver patios and elevated decks for relaxing views of the mountains and river. A breezeway rec room has a rock fireplace, and a lower-level entertainment room has natural light and a wet bar. The 2,920sf garage has 21’ ceilings, 4 bays—including one 39’ deep, 220A outlets, Tesla charger, built-ins, wood stove, full bath/laundry and guest quarters. This sanctuary has a 17.8kW grid-tie solar system, built-in sound, gated entry and private fenced park.
