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When you think about doing spring yard work, think about the best way to fire-proof your yard. There are smart and measured steps you can take to lessen the chances of your home catching fire, no matter where you live, in the event of a wildfire. We explain the basic steps of being fire wise in this week’s Home & Garden Issue. Also, a special celebration at Petersen Rock Garden and some fun First Friday and Easter events going on this weekend. We have a review of an Argentinian restaurant and what’s new in the local food scene. Plus, interviews with some Grammy award-winning musicians scheduled at the Tower. And Burger Week gets underway on Thursday with more than 30 participating restaurants! —Managing Editor Nic Moye
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The colorful steps will lead one to the cozy Bend Zine Library nook at Dudley’s Book Shop! Visitors can check out brand new magazines, look at archives and will leave inspired.
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OPINION
In This Game of Us vs. Them, ‘Them’ is Now Married Women
Most already agree that only citizens should vote in federal elections. In the case of the SAVE Act, the juice isn’t worth the squeeze.
This past weekend, people gathered in Bend, Redmond and other cities around Central Oregon for yet another No Kings demonstration against the Trump administration. By the way we figure it, if the protests keep happening, the numbers only stand to grow.
So much of the proposed legislation being proposed by the federal government is about positioning one sector of the electorate against another. Citizens versus immigrants. Christians versus Muslims. Us and our tariffs, versus them and their trade deficits.
And now, it appears the next targets in this binary game of friends and enemies are married women, and anyone who’s ever changed their name.
Many will have heard about the disastrous Safeguard American Voter Eligibility Act, which passed the House in February and is under consideration by the U.S. Senate. The bill, touted as a safeguard against noncitizen voting (something that’s already illegal) adds onerous new voter registration requirements for voting in federal elections, including providing documentary proof of U.S. citizenship, and imposing new, strict photo i.d. rules, including providing copies of photo i.d. with mail-in ballots.
If passed, the bill would go into effect immediately, giving states like ours, with widespread mail-in voting and automatic voter registration through Driver and Motor Vehicle Services, very little time to pivot. Likewise, the some 69 million married American women who lack a birth certificate with their legal name on it would be sent scrambling to obtain the proper documentation. The most recent version of the bill adds a provision allowing people to add a legal attestation, accounting for their new names, but that is still extra paperwork for a process that has in recent years become so automatized and dependable.
As the Fair Elections Center, a nonpartisan voting rights organization, put it, “There is no reason to pass any version of the SAVE Act other than to make it harder to vote, undermine election integrity and confidence, and promote completely baseless made-up conspiracy theories about widespread non-citizen voting.”
In the instances that there have been cases of non-citizens voting, the numbers didn’t outweigh the numbers who will be disenfranchised by any stretch. According to analysis by the Center for Democracy and Civic Engagement at the University of Maryland, an audit by
the Secretary of State in Georgia found nine cases of non-citizen voting in that state; meanwhile, some 46,000 people of voting age in Georgia currently lack access to the documentary proof of citizenship that would be needed to vote under the new law.
It’s not partisan, either. In total, some 4.6 million unaffiliated voters (14%), 9.7 million Democrats (10%) and 7.1 million Republicans (7%) don’t currently have easy access to the right documents, the Center reported.
Here in Oregon, people were rightly concerned when the DMV uncovered roughly 1,500 ineligible people being added to Oregon’s voter rolls. In total, some 38 people wrongly voted in Oregon in 2022 and 2023. But we can feel confident that the system is working as it was intended. Oregon officials discovered inconsistencies, investigated, and found that often, the problems rested in recording errors by the DMV itself. Sometimes DMV workers recorded a foreign passport number as a U.S. one, or recorded a person from the U.S. territories of Samoa and Swains Island as being eligible to vote in federal elections, when they are not. That process, of the system scouring for errors and then fixing itself, should restore confidence that our elections officials are not asleep at the wheel.
When the SAFE Act came before the U.S. House, Rep. Cliff Bentz, who represents the eastern side of the state and portions of east Bend, voted in lockstep with his party and voted yes. This is a person who was elected in a state whose motor-voter laws and mail-in voting systems ensure high voter registration numbers and relatively high voter turnout; whose constituents, in many rural parts of the state, live in places where obtaining new documents in order to vote is not as easy as taking time out of the lunch hour. If passed, we’d argue that the rural voters of Congressional District 2 will be among those hardest-put to comply.
Perhaps the saddest part about all of this is, even simply having doubts about the integrity of an election, could make some people opt not to take part. So even if none of this baseless legislation makes it to the president’s desk, it’s causing harm.
With a large percentage of American women at risk of being disenfranchised due to this latest ploy, how long before this game no longer includes an “us” at all?
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!
AMY SABBADINI FOR COUNTY COMMISSIONER
I am asking readers to vote for Amy Sabbadini in the upcoming County Commissioner election. Now more than ever, it is imperative to have logical, science-minded leaders who will embrace evidence-based practices. We need leaders to support the behavioral and public health programs that are critical resources for our community. We need leaders who value our children and their education.
Amy will be this leader. She is committed, resourceful and cares deeply about our community. As a Civics teacher she understands the importance of public service and good government.
I would also like to add, in response to a previous letter to the editor printed in the Bend Bulletin, that Amy absolutely stands for democracy, integrity and building community. It is quite literally her mission and to accuse her of manipulation and dishonesty in a letter of support for her opponent is ironic and just plain wrong.
As a retired Public Health Nurse, current substitute teacher for the Bend-La Pine School District and volunteer with both Family Kitchen and Deschutes County Public Health, I urge you to join me in voting for Amy Sabbadini for County Commissioner on May 19th. We need Amy.
—Maya Missakian
SPEAK UP FOR ROADLESS PUBLIC LANDS AT BEND TOWN HALL
When the Roadless Area Conservation Rule was established back in 2001, it followed one of the most extensive public processes for any federal policy in U.S. history. Years of scientific study, a months-long public comment period, and over 600 public hearings and town halls were held across the country.
After receiving overwhelming feedback in support of protecting the last roadless wildlands in our National Forests, the Forest Service adopted the Roadless Rule, protecting nearly 60 million acres of undeveloped public lands from road construction and commercial
logging. In Central Oregon, this policy protects iconic places like Tumalo Mountain and the Tumalo Creek watershed, Lookout Mountain in the Ochocos, Hosmer and Sparks Lakes, the Newberry Crater, Maiden Peak, and so many others.
And now the Trump administration wants to repeal these protections and open these public lands up to development and commercial logging. Further, they are drafting these plans with almost no public input. Over 600 public town halls were held during the creation of the Roadless Rule; zero have been held for its elimination.
That’s why our community is hosting our own town hall. On April 6 at 5:30pm, join local public lands advocacy groups, outdoor athletes, scientists, and local leaders at the Ray Hall Atrium on the OSU Cascades campus for a celebration of roadless forests and an opportunity to speak up for your public lands. Space is limited; RSVP today. Event details: https://community.bendsource.com/bend/public-lands-public-voices-reclaiming-roadless-forests/ Event?oid=24012393
—Sami Godlove
CANDIDATE FORUMS — LEAGUE OF WOMEN VOTERS
For more than a century, the League of Women Voters has stood as a steadfast, nonpartisan champion of voting rights, voter education, and broad civic participation. We do not support or oppose any political party or candidate—our sole allegiance is to an informed and engaged electorate.
We struggle when we read articles and Op-eds that deviate from our mission. We understand that candidates often need to show how they differ from others, and the comments are frequently derogatory, intending to insult or diminish someone’s reputation. In our opinion that does not respect either the accuser or accused.
As we begin our candidate forum season, starting with the county commission forum on April 20, we reaffirm
our commitment to fairness, respect, and civil discourse. These forums are intended to give each candidate an equal opportunity to present their qualifications, ideas, and priorities, grounded in factual evidence and real experience. We expect candidates to focus on their own merits—whether through direct accomplishments or transferable skills—rather than criticizing or disparaging others.
To further ensure balance and integrity, questions will be gathered in advance from the public, carefully reviewed and selected by the League, and presented by a neutral moderator. This process is designed to uphold objectivity, maintain a respectful tone, and provide equal treatment for all participants.
Above all, our mission is to serve voters. We are committed to providing clear, unbiased information so that every member of our community can make thoughtful, confident decisions at the ballot box—free from partisan influence and grounded in respect for one another.
—Joyce
Durban
THE ECONOMY LOOKS DIFFERENT ON A FIXED INCOME
A recent New York Times column argued that the U.S. economy looks “basically the same” as it did in 2024 — similar GDP growth, inflation, unemployment. On paper, that may be true. It is not true for much of Bend.
Central Oregon has one of the fastest-growing retiree populations in the state. Many of us have no pension, a
modest Social Security check, and investments that must bridge the gap. The metrics economists highlight — GDP, real wage growth, unemployment — are largely irrelevant to our daily reality. We don’t earn wages. We can’t recover from a market downturn with a paycheck.
What we experience is food prices rising faster than our cost-of-living adjustments, health care costs that compound quietly, housing expenses that have barely moderated since Bend’s long run-up, and investment income that can vanish overnight.
Aggregate data measures averages. Averages obscure who is actually bearing the weight of this economy. In Bend, for retirees on fixed incomes, the weight is real and growing.
—Laurie Clark
Letter of the Week:
Laurie, I feel your pain. As letter of the week, you can stop by the Source office for a gift card to Palate coffee. I hope you enjoy it!
—Managing Editor Nic Moye
Red Light Cameras Launch April 15
Crews have been out installing cameras at three intersections in Bend in preparation for the Automated Traffic Enforcement program which begins April 15. The locations include NE 27th and Neff Road, SE Reed Market at Third Street and SE Powers at Third Street. The cameras will detect drivers who run red lights or speed through those intersections. The system triggers when a vehicle is about to enter an intersection during a red light. A 12-seond digital video will be taken of the violation, including six seconds prior and six seconds after running a red light. An image will be sent to the address listed on the license plate registration. Initially, police will issue warnings, but those will become tickets one month later on May 15. A citation will include information about the location, date, time and duration of the yellow and red lights at the time of the violation. The fine for running a red light is $265. The fine for speeding is generally $169 for 11 to 20 miles per hour over the limit, $265 for up to 30 miles over and $440 for more than 31 miles over the limit. The city is hosting public information sessions Thursday, April 9 at 5pm at Larkspur Community Center and Monday, April 13 at 5:30pm at Bend Municipal Court on NE 15th Street.
First Drought Declaration of 2026
Gov. Tina Kotek declared a drought emergency in Deschutes, Baker and Umatilla counties which directs state agencies to coordinate and prioritize assistance to those areas. According to the U.S. Drought Monitor, there has been persistent, abnormally dry and moderate drought conditions in Deschutes County since June 2025, which is likely to impact farmers, ranchers, recreation, tourism, natural resources, fish and wildlife and minimum flows for public instream uses. Forecasts indicate that below normal precipitation and streamflow conditions are likely to continue through the summer.
Embattled Winery Proposal North of Bend Gets Deschutes County Approval
Neighbors are divided over a tasting room and production facility
By Clayton Franke
After a four-year dispute, owners of a 5-acre vineyard just north of Bend finally have Deschutes County’s approval to open a wine tasting and production facility. Still, neighbors in opposition say the fight is far from over.
The Deschutes County Board of County Commissioners tentatively approved the application March 25, pending a final decision in the coming weeks. The board greenlit the proposal amid some neighbors’ fears the winery would pollute well water and bring too much traffic to the rural neighborhood. Others have supported the winery, framing it as an economic boost for the area and a compliment to the rural aesthetics.
Duane and Dina Barker are co-owners of Lava Terrace Cellars on Bowery Lane, a few miles north of the new Bend Costco. They say they’ll be able to make 1,500 cases — or about 18,000 bottles — of wine per year. First proposed in 2022, the plan is to convert a barn and garage into a wine production facility and tasting room large enough for six to eight people, where they will host tastings and “wine related events.”
The Barkers did not respond to phone calls from the Source.
Toby and Michel Bayard, who live half a mile away on a curvy dirt road, have led the opposition. In January 2024 they formally contested a hearings officer decision approving the winery in 2024, and submitted a slew of emails and comments on the application.
In a phone call on Friday following the decision, Toby Bayard — a self-described “environmental junkyard dog” — vowed to hire an attorney and take the winery proposal to the Oregon Land Use Board of Appeals, which has the power to reverse or send back local land use decisions.
“I’m going to file an appeal,” Bayard told the Source. “We’ve been fighting this for years.”
A debate over “farm-use”
After the Bayards contested the original proposal, the Barkers circled back with a modified application in 2025. It changed some site plans like setbacks and parking, addressed wastewater concerns and reduced annual wine production from 2,000 cases to 1,500.
Wineries that produce fewer than 6,000 cases per year are “unlikely to have an adverse effect on the environment,” and are exempt from water quality permits from the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality, according to spokesperson Antony Sparrow.
County, including Applicant’s vineyard.”
Central Oregon LandWatch, a nonprofit land use litigator, has pushed back on some winery proposals, expressing concern about Deschutes County using too much farm-zoned land for commercial activity. Kristy Sabo, a planner and attorney for the nonprofit, wrote in a 2022 letter the group was “initially concerned” about the Lava Terrace winery complying with farm use rules. Since then, the group has been silent on the proposal.
Toby Bayard is a frequent donor to Central Oregon LandWatch, as well as local Democrats. She gave $8,000 to 2024 reelection campaign of Deschutes County Commissioner Phil Chang, who recused himself from the March 25 vote. Bayard is a top local donor ahead of this year’s primary elections for county commissioner. She gave $20,000 to the campaign of Jamie Collins, who is vying to unseat longtime incumbent Commissioner Tony DeBone.
With Chang recused, DeBone and Commissioner Patti Adair voted to approve the winery proposal.
A winery in the “Golden Triangle”
The winery plans to host events of up to 25 people, accommodated by 12 customer parking spaces.
—The
“It isn’t just about eating burgers. It’s about strategy.”
—Josh & Brynlee Cordell on how to navigate Burger Week.
Michel Bayard, who said he studied wine production at the University of Bordeaux in France, took issue with the fact that the Barkers planned to bring in grapes from other vineyards to supplement their stock for makingwine. He argued that would skirt agricultural zoning requirements because wine making would not be “functionally dependent” on the farming activity of the property — growing grapes.
The Mixed-Use Agriculture zone where the Barkers’ vineyard lies requires any commercial activity to occur “in conjunction” with a farm use.
“The mere thematic relationship between agricultural and commerce is insufficient,” he said.
Tommy Brooks, a third-party hearings officer for Deschutes County, thought differently in a 2024 decision, writing it was sufficient if the Barkers used grapes grown on their property to make the wine, even if not all the wine.
The 2025 winery proposal said the Barkers plan to make wine with grapes “from vineyards in Deschutes
Land use attorneys for the Barkers at a Feb. 25 public hearing described the neighborhood north of Bend as “an area that has recently experienced growth, and is poised for additional future development.” In 2024 the county finished improvements to Hunnell Road, providing ingress and egress to the area.
Some refer to the neighborhood as the “Golden Triangle” of Bend, because it provides rural character and close proximity to the city, said Julie Langou, who lives one block from the proposed winery, in a Feb. 24 letter to the county.
“On any given walk you will see alpacas, horses, llamas, sheep, goats, chickens, ducks, and other small agricultural operations. Many residents actively maintain this environment because it is what makes this area special,” Langou wrote. “A tasting room and small production facility at Lava Terrace would complement — not conflict with — this character.”
The neighborhood’s signature landmark is a small, covered wooden bridge that crosses an irrigation canal and connects to U.S. Highway 97. Built in 1963, the Rock O’ the Range bridge is the only covered span east of the Cascades in Oregon. It’s listed in the National Register of Historic Places.
number of peacocks and pea hens at Petersen Rock Garden.
Rows of vines are planted at Lava Terrace Cellars, a 5-acre vineyard north of Bend where owners have tentative approval from Deschutes County to open a winery and tasting room.
Clayton Franke
Longtime Incumbent, Credentialed Challenger Clash in Deschutes County Commissioner Position 1 Race
U.S. Coast Guard veteran and disaster responder Jamie Collins has doubled the fundraising totals of 15-year commissioner Tony DeBone
By Clayton Franke
Tony DeBone was first elected to the Deschutes County Board of County Commissioners in 2010. He won again in 2014, and again in 2018 and 2022. Now, as he seeks a fifth term, he faces an aggressive and well-funded challenge.
Jamie Collins, a U.S. Coast Guard veteran and founder of a climate consulting firm, has more than doubled DeBone’s campaign donations, raking in $144,000 as of March 15, according to campaign finance data. He’s riding a message that DeBone and a majority of commissioners have taken a backseat on key issues, including homelessness, water quality, housing and land use.
“My opponent Tony DeBone has failed to plan for these things, he’s failed to lead and he’s failed to take responsibility,” Collins told the Source in an interview.
DeBone says he’s dedicated himself as a commissioner and has helped keep County services running steadily over the last 15 years.
“I am enthusiastic about what I can offer the citizens being a commissioner, four more years,” he told the Source.
A third candidate, Brooke West, joined the race for Position 1 on March 4, a few days before the end of the filing period. West, who runs a construction company, declined an interview when reached by phone March 27.
“I’m running to bring practical, no-nonsense leadership to Deschutes County,” West said on her campaign website.
Though West is far behind in fundraising and campaigning, her filing could disrupt a race that was sailing toward a conclusion at the May 19 primary, when any candidate who receives more than 50% of the vote wins the seat without having to run again in the November general election.
Two others initially filed for Position 1 and withdrew: John Heylin, a former Bend business owner who initiated the 2024 ballot measure to expand the commission from three to five members, and Gary Campbell, a former board member with the Swalley Irrigation District who is now one of six candidates running for Position 3.
The race has seen some of the largest individual donations of any County election this year. Both DeBone and Collins have accepted $20,000 checks: DeBone from cryptocurrency tycoon Patrick Gruhn, who lives on a ranch in La Pine, and Collins from Toby Bayard, an environmentalist appealing a proposed winery near her property north of Bend. DeBone also received $5,000 from the Central Oregon Association of Realtors while Collins took $10,000 from the Western States Carpenters Union.
Backgrounds of public service
Collins has won the endorsement of the Deschutes Democrats and other local officials, and even attracted attention from statewide offices with the endorsement of Secretary of State Tobias Read.
Collins says his long history of public service
inspired him to run for Deschutes County Commissioner. He’s spent the last 22 years in the U.S. Coast Guard, the last 17 as a reservist. He and his family moved to Bend in 2018 when he was recruited by the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality to lead disaster response efforts east of the Cascades.
He highlighted housing, homelessness and what he says are looming crises in insurance and electricity as top priorities.
“I’m a career Coast Guard veteran, climate scientist and national certified disaster response chief, and I’ve looked at these things, problems where it is very easy to kick the can down the road and pass the buck,” Collins said. “I don’t pass the buck. I solve problems.”
Collins is hoping his list of credentials will be enough to defeat DeBone, who has 15 years of experience as commissioner. DeBone, a Republican with a professional background in biotech and aerospace software, moved to La Pine in the early 2000s and got his start as an elected official on the local parks board.
As county commissioner, he’s emphasized economic development, which he says he’ll continue to focus on.
“We always want to make sure the business environment’s good,” he said in an interview. “With my experience, I see that the state legislature and the choice happening in Salem — sometimes aren’t really pro-business, per se. I’m looking forward to helping diversify the economy and find some living wage jobs for people that can create wealth, have savings, health care, the whole big picture.”
He also mentioned energy and electricity as a “limiting factor” to economic development, citing the need to work through land use hurdles for solar projects and development of geothermal energy at the Newberry Volcano.
On homelessness, housing
DeBone has faced criticism — including from Collins — over his apparent reluctance to support homelessness projects, including funding and leases for safe parking programs and the development of a 36-space managed homeless camp in east Redmond. Those projects have moved forward with majority support from the board, but the County is still grappling with homeless camping on government-owned lands near the edge of cities.
The number of people counted as experiencing homelessness in Central Oregon continues to rise each year.
“I think we’re on the downhill side,” DeBone said of the homelessness crisis. “It’s peaked,” he said, while acknowledging there is “a lot of work to do.”
“I think there’s a moment of reality out there that we just haven’t got to,” he said. “The fact that we can’t have these unsanctioned long-term camping, disassembling cars, receiving free services from all the nonprofits and having no responsibility.”
In an interview, Collins called it a “deep moral failing” of DeBone’s leadership that so many people, especially veterans, are homeless. He said the County needs “every possible solution” including more programs and housing paired with services to help people get out of homelessness.
To add more affordable housing, Collins said he wants to broker between cities and the state to set up income and occupational restrictions for housing built on land added through urban growth boundary expansions.
DeBone said he’s worked with cities through urban growth boundary expansion projects and other infrastructure needs.
“When it comes to housing, I’m experienced in that big world, and we’ve been advocating for it,” DeBone said.
Land use debate divides candidates
The current county commission has spurred appeals from land use watchdog groups for allowing rural landowners who say their farm-zoned land is not farmable to redesignate property for low-density housing development. Collins has advocated against the rezoning of rural lands away from cities, arguing it’s not a solution to the housing crisis and puts more homes in the path of wildfire.
In another offensive this month, Collins called out DeBone for inaction on a persistent groundwater nitrate contamination problem in south Deschutes County. DeBone says the County has done plenty of work on the issue, including creating a development fund to help with groundwater treatment and advocating for broader solutions.
JAMIE COLLINS
BROOKE WEST
TONY DEBONE
Photos courtesy of Candidates
REDMOND NEWS
Redmond May Ban ThrottlePowered E-bikes from City Parks
The City says speeding e-bikes are causing safety issues, but enforcing new rules could be difficult
By Clayton Franke
The City of Redmond may be the latest government body to clamp down on e-bikes, with new regulations stirred by a stream of complaints over speeders in City parks.
The City Council launched a survey March 24 asking the public whether throttle-propelled bicycles should be banned from City parks. Results of the two-week survey will inform an April discussion that could lead to new rules in place by summer. But questions remain about where the City will draw the line and whether enforcing the ban would even be possible.
Redmond Mayor Ed Fitch said at a March 16 meeting that e-bikes may be the second-most frequent complaint the City receives.
“It’s a lot of people,” he said.
Redmond’s foray into e-bike regulation comes as some governments and agencies wrestle with a sort of e-bike wild west, fueled by new technologies giving the machines capabilities closer to a motorcycle than a typical bicycle. In 2024 the Oregon legislature rolled out a classification system for different levels of e-bikes and made them illegal for anyone under the age of 16 — legislation stirred by the traffic death of a 15-year-old riding an e-bike along U.S. Highway 20 in Bend. A bill passed earlier this month lowered the legal age to 14 for Class 1 e-bikes, those with a motor that assists pedaling up to 20 miles per hour.
As defined by the state, Class 2 e-bikes provide motor assistance using a throttle up to 20 miles per hour and pedaling isn’t required. Class 3 e-bikes provide pedaling assistance up to 28 miles per hour.
The U.S. Forest Service announced in December it would begin allowing Class 1 e-bikes on forest trails, drawing both dismay and jubilation from the mountain biking community. The rules go into effect April 1.
Redmond Police Chief Devin Lewis recommended a ban on all types of e-bikes in Redmond parks, calling it the “best avenue for community safety,” although he said he couldn’t point to data about e-bike crashes in parks.
“There’s different classes where ones with pedals can still go pretty damn fast, faster than what we want to see in the parks,” Lewis said.
A particular area of concern for the city is Dry Canyon, a 3.7-mile long High Desert canyon park with a multi-use path running through the center of Redmond. Motor vehicles aren’t allowed, but “mobility devices” such as wheelchairs, roller blades and skateboards are, according to a City of Redmond website. That also includes e-bikes, which are popular among teenagers.
“People don’t enjoy the park when you’re dodging other people’s (children) going 35 on an e-bike,” said Councilor Cat Zwicker during the March 16 discussion.
At the same time, she expressed concern that regulating e-bikes in parks might affect people with disabilities who rely on them for recreation or transportation.
Joanie Krehbiel is the owner of Wheel Fun Rentals, a company that rents pedal-assist e-bikes in Bend’s Old Mill District, Eagle Crest Resort in Redmond, and elsewhere. Krehbiel said she would rather see people riding e-bikes on park paths because it’s usually safer than the roadway. But no matter how the e-bike is propelled, the motor makes it easy — even for inexperienced riders or teenagers — to reach unsafe speeds, she said.
“I think the issue on the bike paths is speed, whether it’s Bend or Redmond or anywhere, rather than how you’re getting that speed,” Krehbiel told the Source.
The challenge of enforcement
Banning throttle-powered bikes from parks would bring Redmond in line with the Bend Park & Recreation District, which created that policy for Bend parks last summer. District Spokesperson Julie Brown told the Source the ban is not based on the type or classification of e-bike, but rather, how the bike is being used. For example, a rider on the Deschutes River Trail using only the pedal-assist function of an e-bike that also has a throttle would not be in violation.
Enforcing the rules to that level of detail is difficult. Brown said the district focuses on education and voluntary compliance, and a small number of park stewards — staff who encourage rule-following — could remove e-bike riders who use throttles, but only as a “last resort.”
“Enforcement is always going to be a challenge, I think for any entity when it comes to e-bike use,” Brown said.
Lewis, the Redmond police chief, told the City Council that banning all types of e-bikes is “realistically” the only way to enforce regulations.
At the March 16 meeting, Redmond City Councilor John Nielsen said a new e-bike ordinance that’s difficult to enforce is not the answer to safety issues.
“What we’re trying to regulate is people being jerks on bikes,” Neilsen said. “You can be a jerk on a pedal bike, too.”
The Redmond City Council will likely discuss e-bikes at its April 7 meeting.
FRIDAY 4/3
FIRST FRIDAY MAKERS MARKET
SHOPPING, MUSIC AND SUPPORT FOR ANIMALS IN NEED
Help support Brightside Animal Center and shop at the First Friday Makers Market in the SCP Redmond Hotel Dry Canyon Room! A portion of sales will be donated to Brightside. Attendees will enjoy local makers & live music. 4-7pm at SCP Redmond Hotel. 521 Southwest 6th Street, Redmond. Free.
SATURDAY 4/4
MAKER’S BARKET
FOOD CARTS, SHOPPING AND SUPPORT FOR LOCAL PETS IN NEED
The Makers Barket will be at the Brightside Thrift Store for people who want to shop a broad range of local offerings and enjoy delicious food from food carts. Help support Brightside Animal Center! Live music will play while shoppers enjoy the offerings from 20+ local vendors. Noon-4pm at Brightside Animal Thrift Store. 838 NW Fifth St., Redmond. Free.
TUESDAY 04/07
TRIVIA (&TACO)
TUESDAYS
TACO TIME
Quiz fans of Redmond: bring the crew this week for UKB live trivia & more! Delicious menu favorites, brews, cocktails, plus Taco Tuesday menu! Players will compete for gift card prizes or play just for fun. Bring good vibes and a pen. 6:30pm at Elements Public House. 1857 NW 6th St, Redmond. Free.
People ride pedal-assist e-bikes through Dry Canyon Park in Redmond on Monday, March 30, as the City Council considers banning some types of e-bikes from city parks because of safety concerns.
Clayton Franke
Two Key DIY Projects You Can Do to Spruce Up Your Living Space
New flooring and native plants can make your home sparkle
By Dallas Finn Calvert
Painting interiors, deep-cleaning carpets, scrubbing windows a power washing outer surfaces are just a few steps you can take to make your home sparkle. But if you’re looking to freshen up your living space and improve your home’s curb appeal, while also potentially raising its value, there are two easily tackled do-it-yourself projects to consider. We talked to two local experts who explained.
Replace old flooring to freshen your indoor space
Smitty Smith , a project manager in sales with Direct Flooring Center in Bend, says replacing old, outdated carpet with laminate or luxury vinyl products can make a huge difference in your space.
“People don’t want to be slaves to their homes. This stuff is extremely maintenance free. And it’s a good investment,” Smith said. “It does cost a little bit more per square foot versus carpet and pad, which would be the most affordable way to freshen up your spaces, but it increases your home’s value. The ‘Street of Dreams’ and all of the home parades are putting it in their homes now.”
There’s a “plethora” of options with respect to colors, patterns and opaqueness available, Smith said, at Direct Flooring, which has stores in Bend, Albany and Boise, Idaho. It offers products from approximately 15 manufacturers.
“The ones we’ve selected are the ones we trust. They’ve got good reviews and are a good product that we stand behind,” Smith said. “There’s a plethora of different products and opportunities. You just have to bring your interior taste. You just need to pick out the perfect product. That’s the hardest part of the process. Installing, that’s the easy part.”
Materials start in the “high $2s” per foot up to $11 per foot, depending on the product you choose. While you might have to do some scoring or trimming of edges to fit your particular space, installation is mostly a breeze because the products “snap in.”
Vinyl flooring has been around since the early 1900s and was first introduced at a world fair in 1933. However, it wasn’t until after World War II ended in 1945 that it
became a popular choice for homes because, Smith said, people “took their floors with them when they moved.
“You can take it out of the home, and you can put it back into your new environment with minimal waste,” he said. “It wasn’t really introduced or became popular here in the United States until the mid ‘80s, when we got the first couple of products. Back then, we had to glue the joints together. It’s evolved since then. Everything clicks together, and you don’t have to use adhesive anymore. It’s a pretty simple, straightforward, do-it-yourself project.”
Use native plants to increase curb appeal and decrease water bills
If you’re looking to spruce up your outdoor space and increase your home’s curb appeal, consider planting native grasses, shrubs and trees. An added benefit is that many of them, after they become established in the ground, don’t require nearly as much water as non-native plants.
Ben Snyder is manager at WinterCreek Nursery, which is part of the nonprofit High Desert Horticultural Center and one of the largest native plant nurseries in Central Oregon. WinterCreek is open to the public, and you can stroll around the grounds and check out the varieties of plants available, while discussing your needs with staff. They also offer classes, such as “Transitioning Your Existing Garden” and “Creating Gardens for Wildlife,” and events such as an Earth Day Fair.
There are ground covers, small plants, grasses, shrubs and larger plants and trees. They also offer cuttings from their cactus garden. All of the available plants are native to the area and are as aesthetically pleasing as they are hearty with respect to Central Oregon weather and growing conditions.
“I sometimes make the joke of ‘You know, if you bulldoze your house and wait 100 years, this is the stuff that would grow there, with no one doing anything,” said Snyder. “Native plants are the plants that naturally live here and that evolved here. They don’t need a ton of extra input and help to get going. That’s a real great benefit of using native plants.
“In terms of curb appeal, there are lots of really beautiful native wildflowers, like wild buckwheats and other flowering plants that are super tough, like native penstemons, which are really beautiful, and I would say, are really great for adding curb appeal,” he added.
If you’re looking for shrubs and trees, there’s Oregon Grape, which is the state flower and features bright, yellow buds (there’s also an Oregon Grape ground cover that Snyder has affectionately named “Creepy Grape”), as well as Manzanitas, Mountain mahoganies, Ponderosa pines and Serviceberries.
“You can’t go wrong with native plants,” Snyder said. “We’ve got all different variety of plants, depending on what people are looking for. We’ve got ones that are evergreens and ones that are deciduous. Ones that are flowering or that have berries.”
Most are easy to plant and maintain, he said. You might need to add compost to your soil, depending on your location in Central Oregon, and water them to help them become established and “to make life easier for the plant.” But once they’re established, he said they typically don’t require as much water as non-native plants nor much in the way of winterization. He said using ornamental plants that aren’t native to Central Oregon can “sometimes be like trying to put a round peg in a square hole” with respect to whether the plants ultimately thrive. The converse is true with native plants. In fact, he said WinterCreek stores many of its plants outdoors during the winter.
“The nice thing about native plants is that they’re so tough, so resilient. In this climate, they don’t need a lot of water. I think they’re very DIY’able,” he said. “A lot of the shrubs and wildflowers have a similar cycle, where they go to sleep in the winter, and then in the spring they wake up when it starts getting warm, and they start flowering and doing their thing,” Snyder said. “I don’t want to say it’s impossible to mess up, but there are certain plants—the real tough ones like the buckwheats—that wouldn’t grow here with no help from people if they weren’t incredibly tough. Those ones are pretty tough and pretty easy.”
Ben Snyder, manager at WinterCreek Nursery, in the native-plant nursery’s cactus garden.
TCreate a FireResistant Yard to Protect Your Home
Your yard could be the last line of defense in saving your home during a wildfire
By Nic Moye
he City of Bend is considering updating codes to require defensible space buffer zones around homes. The idea is to remove fuel sources near structures which can stop flames from advancing. There are three different zones around a home to consider when creating a defensible space: immediate, intermediate and extended. The National Fire Protection Association defines the Home Ignition Zone as everything out to 100 feet, or 200 feet if there’s a steep slope.
In a past interview with the Source, Melissa Steele, deputy fire marshal of Wildfire Preparedness for Bend Fire & Rescue, said 90% of ignitions from wildfires are embers which can travel up to 3 miles and land on a flammable bush right next to your home. Horticulturist Amy Jo Detweiler with Oregon State University Extension Service is an expert on best practices for fire resistant yards. The first 5 feet surrounding a house, the immediate zone, should have nothing that can catch fire, including plants, bark mulch or grass.
“It would just be hardscaping. You could have decorative rock, things like that,” Detweiler told the Source. “To create that buffer is what research shows is one of the best ways to protect your home and structures.” Hardscaping is the use of pavers, boulders, statues, non-flammable table or chairs — anything that adds design, but is noncombustible.
The intermediate zone, between 5 and 30 feet away from a home, can include grass mowed to 4 inches or less and some fire-resistant plants. Between 30 to 100 feet, the extended zone, the yard should be cleared of dead grass and vegetation with bushes and trees pruned. Experts say defensible space does not mean a home won’t catch fire, but it reduces the chances.
The type of plants also matters. Fire-resistant plants do not readily ignite and tend to produce fewer embers. Factors that influence a plant’s flammability include moisture content, age, total volume, dead material and chemical content. Most healthy deciduous shrubs and trees
are fire resistant. Fire-resistant plants also tend to have branching patterns that are open and loose, little dead wood, minimal sap and leaves that are wide, flat, moist and supple. If using ground cover, choose plants with a higher moisture content.
“You don’t want to use ground covers that are just going to become invasive and continue to fill in an area, especially if they’re a little bit on the taller side, or perennials that recede, that are on the taller side,” Detweiler says. “You want to make sure it’s just going to be things that are going to stay in either groupings or berms and not create this continuum of fuel.”
Plants that are not recommended near homes include ornamental grasses, conifers and vines and dry, dead leaves. Also, branches should be trimmed off bushes and trees.
“A lot of the deciduous plant material, your shrubs and trees that drop their leaves in the fall tend to be more fire resistant,” Detweiler says. “Things that don’t have a strong odor to them, if you crush the leaves or the stem, tend to be more fire resistant.” She says plants and trees with a strong odor, like a pine tree, that have pitch, resin or oils will be more combustible and burn hotter and longer.
The spacing of plants is another important factor. If too close together, fire can spread among different-sized plants like a ladder into the tree canopy, which can lead windblown embers onto a roof. Fire-resistant plants can be included in the intermediate zone, 5 to 30 feet away from a structure.
“I think the most important thing I can emphasize for folks planting a tree is to think about mature size for that tree because when you buy it from the nursery, of course, it’s going
Amy Jo Detweiler
There are three zones homeowners should pay attention to when creating a defensible space.
The first 5-feet around a home is the immediate zone and should be hardscaped with nonflammable materials like rocks and pavers.
If plants are too close together, fire can spread among different-sized plants in a continuous row or like a ladder into the tree canopy. Think about how big plants will become when they reach maturity before planting.
to be small, and you’re not necessarily thinking about when this plant is 10 years down the road, how far out this branch is going to be, because you want to avoid getting to within 10 feet of the roof line of your home,” Detweiler advises.
Spacing of 10 feet or more is recommended between group plantings to allow space as plants grow. Avoid planting in rows which can create a continuous path for fire to spread. Conifers (cone-bearing trees with needle-like leaves) should not be planted next to a home, but if there are already established trees, create a minimum of 15 feet between tree branches and the roofline.
Another critical step to reducing fire hazards around a home is to clean gutters to remove fallen pine needles. Keeping plants well-watered and maintained is also important.
OSU Extension Service has a list of recommended fire resistant plants which can be found online or in a brochure at its office located at the Deschutes Fair and Expo Center in Redmond.
“Some of my favorites for our area, as far as ground covers go, would be any type of sedum. We have both native and nonnative sedum,” Detweiler says. “They have a high-level moisture content and attract our pollinators… You’ve got lots of choices as far as perennials go. You can use things like Agastache. Any of the Penstemon are a great choice.” Other examples of fire-resistant plants can be seen in the demonstration garden near the playground at Alpenglow Park off SE 15th Street south of Murphy Road in Bend.
Gardening Tips
What to do this spring to ensure a successful growing season
Growing a garden in Central Oregon can be tricky but rewarding if you plan ahead. A typical growing season in the high desert ranges from 70 to 100 days depending on location. In early spring, you can begin enriching garden soil by adding organic matter. According to OSU Extension Service a productive soil provides support, water, air and nutrients to plants. Good soil is between 40% to 60% porous with the pores filled with air or water.
Soil temperature also matters for successful planting. Using a soil thermometer, measure the ground temp at the same time each morning. When it’s consistently 45-degrees or higher several days in a row, you can seed lettuce, radish, peas, spinach, root crops, onions and potatoes. You can also transplant cool season crops like broccoli and cabbage. Wait to put out frost sensitive crops such as tomatoes and peppers until the weather warms, typically by the second week of June. Having a frost cloth on hand for protection is recommended.
The OSU Extension Service Office at the Deschutes County Fair & Expo Center has brochures on gardening tips, preparing soil, planting fruit trees, deer-resistant plants, pruning advice and more. You can also find it online at: extension.oregonstate.edu.
Home & Garden Events
Central Oregon Master Gardener Assoc. Classes All Things Seeds & Growing Vegetables in Central Ore.
Sat April 11 10am-Noon & 1-3pm OSU Extension Bldg. 3 3800 SW Airport Way, Redmond gocomga.com/classes-events Free / Need to register
COBA Spring Home & Garden Show
Fri-Sun May 1-3 10am-5pm (closes 4pm Sun)
Deschutes County Fair & Expo Center 3800 SW Airport Way, Redmond coba.org/event/home-garden-show Free
Native Plant Garden Tour Sat June 20 9am-3pm
High Desert Horticultural Center highdeserthorticulturalcenter.org/garden-tour
High Desert Garden Tour
Sat July 18 8:30am-3:30pm Central Oregon Master Gardners extension.oregonstate.edu/mg/central/events /high-desert-garden-tour
Adults $20 /18 & under free
Plant photos by Amy Jo Detweiler Plant photos by Amy Jo Detweiler
Serviceberry bears white flowers in spring followed by edible, purplish fruit.
This conifer touches the roofline, increasing the risk of wildfire spreading to a home. This tree and ornamental grasses should be removed to create a defensible space.
The Shasta daisy is a late-summer blooming perennial that is drought tolerant.
Sea thrift is a clump-forming perennial with grasslike foliage, good in rock gardens.
SOURCE PICKS
THURSDAY 4/2
FLUFFALOVE
LIVE 70’S FOLK-ROCK MUSIC
This couple/duo, Nancy Terzian and Kye Kennedy, arrived in Bend in August, 2019 after living in Nashville, TN for over 20 years where they honed their craft among the best in the music business. They play “music for the soul” consisting primarily of '70s folkrock gems. 7:30-9:30pm at Commonwealth Pub. 30 SW Century Dr #100, Bend. Free. THURSDAY
JENNA HANSEN
SMOOTH AND BEAUTIFUL LIVE MUSIC
Jenna is a versatile singer with experience performing both solo and with a band. She has a smooth, clean, voice with beautiful vibrato and break that is an aural delight. Jenna has taken the stage at the Hale Theatre, Angelus Theatre, Dixie Center and other venues in Utah and Arizona. 6-8pm at the Lot. 745 NW Columbia St, Bend. Free.
CHASIN’ BANDITS
FOOD, JOY AND LIVE MUSIC
The band plays a variety of memorable country and rock favorites. Talented musicians keep the crowd entertained and engaged. Dance the night away or just enjoy the music. The Desert Inn in Metolius is a friendly local establishment with great food and drinks, Friday night is prime rib night! First Friday of every month. 7-10pm at Desert Inn Sports Bar & Grill. 385 Jefferson Ave, Metolius. Free.
GREEN JELLY, LIVID KINGS, DR. GREEN DREAMS & ACID DECAY
NIGHT OF ROCK AND LAUGHS
Green Jellÿ (aka Green Jellö) is an American comedy rock band formed in 1981 by Bill Manspeaker. As most of the band’s members were poor musicians at the time, they billed themselves as “The World’s Worst Band.” 8pm-Midnight at the Domino Room. 51 NW Greenwood Ave, Bend. $18.49.
TURN UP FOR TURKEY WITH THOUGHTBOX, BILLY AND THE BOX KID, JACKRAT & JAMES G
SUPPORT FOR A LOCAL PUP IN NEED
The beloved local sound guy Cory and his dog Turkey need the community’s help! Turkey needs surgery to remove a benign tumor. Local bands are coming together to throw down an epic night of music for the cause. 8-11pm at the Domino Room. 51 NW Greenwood Ave, Bend. $10.
SATURDAY 4/4
PETE KARTSOUNES
AMERICANA VIBES
This event is a night of dynamic Americana with masterful guitar, heartfelt storytelling, and soulful energy. Live music that blends roots, rhythm, and pure Bend vibes. 6:30-8:30pm at Portello Lounge. 2754 NW Crossing Dr # 104, Bend. Free for customers.
SUNDAY 4/5
SHINEOLA (SING-ALONG)
SONGS AND JOY IN TANDEM
Shineola has one main aim—to get the audience singing at the top of its lungs! From popular rock to timeless choruses, and from anthem classics to generations-old folk songs from the Commonwealth. All are invited to come and experience the magic of chorus therapy! 4-6pm at Commonwealth Pub. 30 SW Century Dr #100, Bend. Free.
MONDAY 4/6
MUSICIAN OPEN MIC SHOWCASE HOSTED BY THE SESSION
FAB MUSIC COLLABS
Calling all musicians! Monday nights are nights for a special opportunity to showcase talent, connect with other artists, and perform in a welcoming and collaborative, music-loving atmosphere. Backline provided, just bring instruments and chords! 5-9pm at Commonwealth Pub. 30 SW Century Dr #100, Bend. Free.
WEDNESDAY 4/8
ELSEWHERE (AFTER DARK): A SPIRIT-LED SPEAKEASY
SPECIAL SOCIAL SPEAKEASY
Bend’s nomadic tea temple is back! It’s popping up after hours at the Desert Rose Cactus Lounge for an evening of collective interbeing. Organizers envision this evening as a creative arcana: analog nightlife for those craving depth, artistry, and genuine connection - with a touch of mystery. 6-10pm at Desert Rose Cactus Lounge. 50 SE Scott St, Bend. $20-30.
Domino Room
Jenna Hansen
Desert Rose Cactus Lounge
The Domino Room
S SOUND Living in the Light Tour
Grammy-winning acoustic guitarist Tommy Emmanuel is coming to the Tower Theatre
By Bill Forman
Tommy Emmanuel is not kind to his guitars.
The Grammy-winning Australian musician beats out rhythms on their soundboards, scrapes the top of them with pliers, and sands off finishes so he has yet another surface to punish. On average, Emmanuel’s guitars survive five years of this before they become unplayable. Sometimes that happens onstage, at which point he reaches for his nearby backup and carries on with the set. And it’s all worth it, both for Emmanuel and for his audiences. Meanwhile, people in high places have continued to sing his praise. Fellow guitar legend Steve Vai says to “imagine Chet Atkins with the testosterone of Eddie Van Halen,” while Atkins himself, who was Emmanuel’s mentor, once described him as one of the best guitar players he’d ever seen. Emmanuel moved to Nashville back in the early 2000s, and has since collaborated with a newer generation of high-profile artists that includes Jason Isbell, Amanda Shires, Little Big Town, and Billy Strings. In the following interview, Emmanuel talks about the strict four-day deadline that shaped the recording of his latest album, “Living in the Light,” the guitar hero who taught him more than just technique, and the surprising origins of his singular tremolo technique.
the Source: Let’s start off with a question about Chet Atkins. Beyond what you learned about music and technique from him, what personal quality did he embody that served as the greatest inspiration for you?
Tommy Emmanuel: I would say his kindness and genuineness to people was an inspiration to me. Not only was he like a daddy to me, but I saw him do so much for so many people. The way he treated people was beautiful. He was generous with his time, his knowledge, and his spirit. That authenticity and warmth is something I’ve tried to carry into my own life and career. It showed me that you could be one of the greatest musicians who ever lived and still maintain that sense of humility and connection with people. That philosophical approach — treating everyone with respect and kindness — is, to me, just as important as the music itself.
tS: You’re known for recording songs in a single take. For “Living in the Light,” were there any tracks that required more than one take due to a specific musical challenge?
TE: What happened with this album is I only had a four-day window to work with Vance Powell, who is one of my favorite engineers and producers, known for his work with artists like Chris Stapleton and Jack White. So I was under pressure to get everything recorded in that time; “Young Travelers,” “Scarlet World,” “Little Georgia,” “You Needed Me,” “Black and White to Color,” “Drowning Heart,” all those songs were one take. The other stuff, like the song “Maxine,” was layered: I programmed a drum part, then played the rhythm, then the bass, some percussion, and then added some real drums. We did the vocals, and I got Kristen, the girl who works with Jelly Roll, to come in for the backing vocal parts, as the vocal groove is really important in that song. Then I borrowed Jack White’s custom-made Fender amp, got it amped up, played a couple of electric solos, and chose the second one. As soon as that was all done, we mixed it. So, even the layered tracks were completed within that short time frame.
tS: You’ve also got a very long history of punishing your guitars. I’m especially curious about your technique
where you bend the neck of your gui tar to make it sound like a tremo lo. How did that come about, and how many guitars did you destroy before you perfected it?
TE: Oh, I’ve never broken a guitar by doing so, thankfully! The necks on my guitars are incredibly well made. You’re not going to break the neck — you could probably play cricket with that neck! The technique of bending the neck to make a tremo lo sound goes way back to around 1961. We were lit tle kids listening to surf music, but we didn’t know that people were playing a guitar with a proper tremolo arm on it. We had no idea because we never saw the players or the actual instruments. We were living in a little country town in the Australian outback. My brother, instinctively, found that if he bent the neck a little, it made that warbling sound. So we started doing that, and that’s how that technique came about and became a core part of my playing style, a physical way to get the vibrato effect without a mechanical device.
early experience in the outback. It’s all about resourcefulness and finding the sound in the moment.
tS: Aside from Chet Atkins, which influential figure from the world of jazz, soul, or classical music has a melodic language you have explicitly tried to reverse engineer?
tS: The new album’s sonic quality is exceptional, especially on the acoustic tracks. Can you share what contributed to that sound?
TE: I’d say it’s a bit of everything, honestly. Vance already had his favorite choice of mics set up for recording acoustic guitar when I arrived the first morning. I just basically sat down, put headphones on, and started playing and had a listen to the mics. He came out, moved them around a little bit, and then we both agreed, ‘There it is. That’s the sound.’ That’s how we did it. When I recorded the song, “Waiting for the Times to Get Better,” that was actually a completely live performance, live guitar, live vocal, and I wasn’t even wearing headphones. I was just sitting, playing, and singing. He simply placed the mics where he wanted them, and away we went. He made the entire process as easy as possible. Man, that’s why you go with a guy as good as him; he makes your job that much easier, especially when you’re under a tight time constraint like we were.
tS: Given your Australian roots, how often have you collaborated with didgeridoo players, either live or in the studio?
TE: Oh, many times. Everywhere in Australia, on TV, at shows, at festivals. You’ve got to remember that back in the late ‘60s and early ‘70s, I was based way out in the middle of Australia, in the bush. So, I played mostly to Aboriginal audiences, and that’s a deep part of where I’m from. It really gives you a sense of inventing things yourself. We don’t rely on fixing it up later in the mix; we do it live. That whole ethos of creating the sound by hand, whether it’s making my guitar sound like a didgeridoo through an amp or crafting an entire soundscape in one take, comes from that
TE: Ray Charles has always been one of my biggest influences. And Jerry Reed, B.B. King, Eric Clapton... but I’d have to say probably my favorite jazz player would be Wes Montgomery. I also love George Benson and Lenny Breau. I am so into songs and singers, and for me, all those great soul artists — Diana Ross, Carole King, James Taylor — they have that deep soul. The earliest influences in music that really got to my soul were Hank Williams and Jimmie Rodgers. That’s soul, country, and blues all mixed together. When I listen to someone like Wes Montgomery, I’m trying to figure out how he constructed his solos, how he thought about the chord progression, and how he made the melodies flow with such clarity and rhythm. That’s the reverse-engineering part: not just copying, but understanding the language.
tS: You’ve prioritized great repertoire over technique. Are there times when you deliberately remove a technically brilliant, flashy section from a song because it distracted from the core melody?
TE: I always bring up this advice when young guys, especially those going to places like Berkeley, ask me about improvising. I always tell them, “If you want to learn good improvising, then have a listen to people who do it well.” I tell them to have a listen to Oscar Peterson on the piano, Ella Fitzgerald scatting, and Larry Carlton’s solo on Steely Dan’s “Kid Charlemagne.” Those are the touchstones for me. Why? Because none of them prioritize flash over the musical moment. Larry Carlton’s solo on “Kid Charlemagne,” for instance, is phenomenal because every note serves the song. It’s not just speed; it’s melodic structure and phrasing. If you can listen to those three examples and not improve your sense of improvisation, nothing will. That’s the lesson I internalize: if a technique is just showing off and doesn’t make the song better or the arrangement more interesting, it doesn’t belong.
Tommy Emmanuel Wed. Apr 15 7:30pm Tower Theatre 835 NW Wall St, Bend towertheatre.org/event/to my-emmanuel-cgp-4-15-26 $49.50+
Tommy Emmanuel has been dubbed one of the best acoustic guitarists in the world.
SimoneChecchitti
CALENDAR
1 Wednesday
¡La Búsqueda de Bend en español! ¡Bienvenidos a BEND!Para esta búsqueda del tesoro, recibirán instrucciones y pistas por correo electrónico o mensaje de texto una hora o más antes de su hora de búsqueda. Esta búsqueda del tesoro se realiza a su propio ritmo. ¡Comience y termine cuando quieran! March 23-April 6, 10am. $20
The Belfry Vanessa Collier Vanessa Collier is a powerhouse of modern blues — a magnetic blend of blistering saxophone, soulful vocals, and unstoppable energy that’s redefining the genre for a new generation. An award-winning multi-instrumentalist, singer, and songwriter, Collier has carved her own lane in the blues, funk, and soul world 7-10pm. $28.29
The Capitol Karaoke Drink specials! Air guitars! Come see for yourself. 8pm-1am. Free.
Craft Kitchen and Brewery Comedy Open Mic Night Open mic comedy on Bend’s NE side. Come down, eat some BBQ, drink some drinks, and be prepared to laugh. 7:30-9pm. Free.
Hosmer Bar Trivia Night Brainy banter and cold drinks! Whether one is a seasoned quiz champ or just in it for the laughs, gather the crew and test everyone’s knowledge! 7-9pm. Free.
JC’s Bar & Grill Wing-SKEY Wednesday + Trivia Enjoy $0.75 wings, cheap whiskey and drink deals. Trivia with the infamous “physical” challenge (think musical chairs, limbo, paper airplanes, etc.) kicks off at 7pm. 7pm. Free.
Northside Bar & Grill Mellow Wednesday Open Mic Night Come down for our Open Mic Night hosted by Derek Michael Marc!!! Sign up at 530pm to get a spot to play! 5:30-8pm. Free.
Portello Lounge Music Bingo Music Bingo is hosted by the always entertaining Rachel Fishman, who keeps the crowd singing and laughing all night! It’s the perfect bonus to a night out enjoying great food, drinks and good company at Portello! 6:30-8:30pm. Free.
Silver Moon Brewing SHOVELBELT, Sweet Demon & Trajedy Shrine Born in the desert heat, SHOVELBELT’s sound blends crushing riffs, hypnotic rhythms, and deep groove atmospheres—raw, heavy, and relentlessly loud.” 7-10pm. $12.24
LIVE MUSIC & NIGHTLIFE
Silver Moon Brewing The Heart
Springs The Heart Springs is a local musical duo. Blending harmony-driven originals with beloved folk and country covers, their music carries the warmth of front porch-picking and an energy that gets a crowd stomping along.7-10pm. $12.24
The Commonweath Pub Rob Gregerson Rob Gregerson is a modern day one-man-band for the ages! He began his looping career in 1999 with just a guitar and a delay pedal and over the last couple of decades, has developed into an full orchestrated looping carnival. 7:30-9:30pm. Free.
Upp Liquids Bend Comedy Open Mic The Bend Comedy Open Mic, every Wednesday at UPP Liquids. All peformance types and ages are welcome! 7-9pm. Free.
Wonderland Chicken X Worthy
Brewing Karaoke Wednesday! Drink and food specials! Sing your favorite songs or do the trademark karaoke roulette and let your fate be at the will of the KJ! 8pm. Free.
2 Thursday
The Astro Lounge Karaoke with Christina Karaoke with Christina. Karafun catalog gives one thousands of songs to sing to. Great sound system and brand new wireless mics. Drink specials during the event. 9pm-1am. Free.
Bunk+Brew Karaoke Thursdays All voices are welcome. Food carts available all evening! Located in the Historic Lucas House Living Room for winter. 7-10pm. Free.
The Cellar Live Irish Trad Music with The Ballybogs! Live music featuring Bend’s Irish Trad band, The Ballybogs! Every Thursday at The Cellar. Seats fill up, so get there early! 6-8pm. Free.
The Commonwealth Pub Fluffalove
This couple/duo, Nancy Terzian and Kye Kennedy, arrived in Bend, Oregon in August, 2019 after living in Nashville, TN for over 20 years where they honed their craft among the best in the music business. They play “music for the soul” consisting primarily of 70’s folk-rock gems. 7:309:30pm. Free.
Hosmer Bar Bingo Night Your week just found its highlight—bingo! Drinks, good company and a little friendly competition. 7-9pm. Free.
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Initiative Brewing - The Hub Karaoke at They flip the switch—free, all-ages karaoke where kids, regulars, and first-timers get their moment. Belt it out or soak in the chaos—this is a weekly excuse to show up and let loose. Bubba, aka DJ Bubba Yum, runs the show, spinning tracks, hyping the crowd, and nudging everyone toward the mic. 5:30-7:30pm. Free.
The Lot Jenna Hansen Jenna is a versatile singer with experience performing both solo and with a band. She has a smooth, clean, voice with beautiful vibrato and break that is an aural delight. Jenna has taken the stage at the Hale Theatre, Angelus Theatre, Dixie Center and other venues in Utah and Arizona. 6-8pm. Free.
Ponch’s Place Trivia Thursdays With QuizHead Games. 6-8pm. Free.
River’s Place Dust Devils A rootsy, eclectic trio mixing familiar & original blues, county & swing will be performing live at River’s Place. 6-8pm. Free.
Silver Moon Brewing Jesus Christ Taxi Driver & Chiggi Momo Jesus Christ Taxi Driver makes joyfully irreverent noise. Taking aim at daily banal agonies, and existential uncertainty, the moods shift from meditative to unhinged. Formed in 2022 on Colorado’s front range, they’ve been bringing their wildly disruptive live shows to venues across the mountain west at an incredible pace. 7-10pm.$12.24
The Winery at Manzanita- Bend Vino & Vibes Enjoy an evening of wine and Local community grooves every Thursday. Local singers and song writers welcome. 5-7pm. Free.
3 Friday
The Ale Apothecary Tasting Room
The Mage Lights with Cutter Marie Rock Music. Drums, Bass, Guitar, and words performed in a live setting by humans. 6-8pm. Free.
Craft Kitchen & Brewery Sexy Talk
Comedy at Craft Sexy Talk is part stand up comedy, part sexy advice from comedians, and all kinds of a good time. The audience gets a phone number to anonymously text in their sex and relationship questions and the comedians riff on them live on stage. 8-9:30pm. $15/$10 online.
Desert Inn Sports Bar & Grill
Chasin’ Bandits The Band plays a variety of memorable country and rock favorites. Talented musicians keep the crowd entertained and engaged. Come out and dance the night away or just enjoy the music. The Desert Inn in Metolius is a friendly local establishment with great food and drinks, Friday night is prime rib night! First Friday of every month, 7-10pm. Free.
The Domino Room Green Jelly, Livid Kings, Spina, Dr. Green Dreams, & Acidic Decay Green Jellÿ (aka Green Jellö) is an American comedy rock band formed in 1981 by Bill Manspeaker. As most of the band’s members were poor musicians at the time, they billed themselves as “The World’s Worst Band”. 8pm-Midnight. $18.49.
Downtown Bend Youth Art Takeover 2026
Celebrating visual and performing student artists in Central Oregon in downtown businesses alongside the 1st Friday artwalk. Student awards ceremony is at the Commons Cafe at 6:30pm. Visit #youtharttakeoverbend on IG for locations! 5-8pm. Free.
Faith, Hope & Charity Vineyards Live at the Vineyard: Bobby Lindstrom International Blues Challenge solo nominee, singer/songwriter/bluesman Bobby Lindstrom will be providing some soul-inspiring blues and rock. His riveting original songs reflect the stories of his life, his loves and his quest of helping and healing with music. 5-8pm. $15.
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.
Pangaea Guild Hall Speakeasy Nights
Pangea Guild Hall is holding a secret speakeasy with an evening of live entertainment and classic cocktails. Something new to discover every week! 6-9pm. Pay what you can.
Portello Lounge Live Music: Joanna Lee @ Portello Lounge Experience the one-of-a-kind talent if Joanna Lee at Portello! Her unforgettable voice and soulful style create a night of music people simply can’t miss - made even better with Portello’s amazing food, craft cocktails, wine selection and chill vibes! 6:30-8:30pm. Free for customers.
Silver Moon Brewing Clark Engine Company “Clark Engine Company” is a dynamic and energetic folk rock, country combo out of Portland, OR with influences expanding the 1960s and 70s. Foreman of the group, Clark, lets his troubadour lifestyle characterize songs of road ridden vagabonds with a classic cosmic Americana feel. 7-10pm. $14.38
Silver Moon Brewing Brass Jaguar Working within the realms of both experimental pop and alternative electronic, Brass Jaguar is the moniker of producer and singer Elijah Goodall. Textural beats beneath ethereal vocals provide the map for a lyrical narrative that is both unwinding and weaving, often in the same breath. 7-10pm. $12.24
Silver Moon Brewing So Much House: Fluffy Stuff & Luxo SoMuchHouse: Bend debut DJ set by Fluffy Stuff with support by Luxo. B2B set by Its Fine & MStarkDJ. Dance, community, house music. Join for this special night! First Friday of every month, 8pm-2am. $15.
The Commonweath Pub GBots & The Journeymen GBots and the Journeymen invite all to warm their soul with sound. Experiencing them live is an immersion into a sonic bathtub steeped in rich rock, funk, and soul roots, plus a proper conjuring of the finest jam bands, both past and present. Special guest Pete Kartsounes will be there too! 8-10pm. Free.
The Haven CoWorking Quiz Me Baby One More Time & Viva La Vulva This is an event celebrating National Vagina Day in collaboration with the Wine With Your Gyn Podcast, sponsors The Haven Coworking Space and Rancher Butcher Chef. These events are fundraisers for the podcast to continue building awareness and discussion of women’s health issues. $40 per team of four. 6-8pm. $40.
Volcanic Theatre Pub 90’s Night Featuring Chained to Stone and Trapper Keepers!! Get ready to travel back in time to an iconic era of music featuring two of Bend’s premier 90’s bands, Chained to Stone and Trapper Keepers! Don’t miss this epic all ages event! Doors open at 7:00pm music starts at 7:30pm. Tickets are available online or at the door. 7pm. $20.59.
Jesus Christ Taxi Driver & Chiggi Momo will perform live at Silver Moon Brewing on Thu., April 2, from 7 to 10pm.
4 Saturday
The Astro Lounge Live local sounds with assorted DJs. Live local sounds from different artists every Friday and Saturday. 10pm-2am. Weekend cover charge.
Austin Mercantile James Townsend Troubadour James Townsend plays a sweet, soulful mix of originals and classic covers. 5-7pm. Free. Bridge 99 Brewery Family-Friendly Karaoke Night Looking for family fun? You’ll find it every Saturday night at Bridge 99 Brewery. Family-friendly karaoke is hosted by DJ Jackie J and A Fine Note Karaoke Too from 6-9 PM. Adults, kids and good dogs welcome. 6-9pm. Free.
The Coyote Learn “Fake ID” - Advanced Line Dance Lesson Back by popular demand. Participants will learn the advanced line dance “Fake ID” in this small-group workshop designed for dancers with some experience or anyone ready for a fun challenge. Spots are limited. 4:305:30pm. $15.
The Domino Room Turn Up For Turkey with Thoughtbox, Billy and the Box Kid, Jackrat, & James G The beloved local sound guy Cory and his dog Turkey need the community’s help! Turkey needs surgery to remove a benign tumor. Local bands are coming together to throw down an epic night of music for the cause. 8-11pm. $10.
Portello Lounge Live Music: Pete Kartsounes @ Portello Join us for a night of dynamic Americana with masterful guitar, heartfelt storytelling, and soulful energy. Live music that blends roots, rhythm, and pure Bend vibes. 6:308:30pm. Free for customers.
River’s Place Saturday Jazz Sessions This event will feature some funky groovy jazz by Machado Mijiga and Dario LaPaloma from Portland. 6-8pm. Free.
The Barrel Room at Upp Liquids Pride Prom and Drag Brunch The first annual Pride Prom and Drag Brunch hosted by Central Oregon for Socialism will celebrate with a metamorphosis themed event! Drag brunch will be from 12-3 pm, all ages prom from 5-8 pm, and 21+ prom with special guest DJ LunallDay from 8 pm- midnight. Tickets available at door! Noon-Midnight. $15-25.
The Commonweath Pub JuJu Eyeball JuJu Eyeball is back to play Beatles music. Fab, and party on Jojo! 8-10pm. Free.
Volcanic Theatre Pub Not.Greenday Supported by Keep Flying & the Emergency Exit. 7pm. $27.
5 Sunday
Dogwood At The Pine Shed Okay Karaoke Sing your favorite songs with friends, enjoy professional sound and lighting, and let the spotlight shine on you. Hosted by the dynamic Tammy Larsen, it’s the perfect night out for music lovers and party people alike. Noon-11pm. Free.
Initiative Brewing - The Hub Trivia Sunday with UKB Trivia at Initiative Brewing/ The Hub in Redmond Not too early, not too late! Team up to win prizes, or for the fun of it. No fee to play! This is no ordinary trivia quiz, it’s Useless Knowledge Bowl! Enjoy fantastic food and brews. Bring good vibes and a pen if possible. 4-6pm. Free.
River’s Place Trivia Gather the team for this friendly battle of the minds hosted by Useless Knowledge Bowl. Free to play & prizes to win! Check out the Mimosa menu! Noon-2pm. Free.
River’s Place Lickety Split This event features old-time, country blues, ragtime & jug band classics. 5-7pm. Free.
The Commonweath Pub Shineola (Sing-along) Shineola has one main aim—to get the audience singing at the top of their lungs! From popular rock to timeless choruses, and from anthem classics to generations old folk songs from the commonwealth. All are invited to come and experience the magic of chorus therapy! 4-6pm. Free.
6
Monday
Bevel Craft Brewing Bingo with Bren Supporting Family Kitchen This month, Bingo with Bren is proud to support Family Kitchen program, helping provide meals to neighbors in need. Cards are $2 each or 6 for $10. This is a family-friendly event for a great cause! 6-8pm. $2.
M&J Tavern Vinyl Night Monday Night just got better!!! 9pm to Midnight. SupaFly will be your Dj. Bring your own vinyl and sign up to add it to the Playlist or pick from hers. . 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.
Silvermoon Brewing Bluegrass Collective Mondays The Bluegrass collective is an event for intermediate to advanced players to perform their favorite bluegrass songs. Experienced players encouraged to join and share the stage. 6-8pm. Free.
The Commonweath Pub Musician Open Mic Showcase hosted by The Session Calling all musicians! Monday nights are nights for a special opportunity to showcase talent, connect with other artists, and perform in a welcoming and collaborative, music-loving atmosphere. Backline provided, just bring instruments and chords! 5-9pm. Free.
7 Tuesday
The Astro Lounge Tuesdays trivia and karaoke The longest running trivia show in Central Oregon. Matt and Mark bring the buzz. This is a bring your own food event. We have a small fryer menu but supporting other restaurants is encouraged. We will follow with karaoke with Christina at 9pm till close. 7:30-9pm. Free.
Beach Hut Deli Tip of the Tongue Trivia Tip of the Tongue trivia is the right event for those who want to test their knowledge and try for a chance to win some great prizes! 6-8pm. Free.
The Capitol Karaoke Drink specials! Air guitars! Come see for yourself. 8pm-1am. Free.
The Cellar Open Mic Open Mic is hosted by Mari of the band, Mari & The Dream! This is an intimate night of sharing music in a welcoming environment and supportive community. 6-8pm. Free.
Elements Public House Trivia (&Taco)
Tuesdays Quiz fans of Redmond: bring the crew this week for UKB live trivia & more! Delicious menu favorites, brews, cocktails, plus Taco Tuesday menu! Players will compete for gift card prizes or play just for fun. Bring good vibes and a pen. 6:30pm. Free.
The Lot Trivia Tuesdays Stop scrolling and streaming, get out of the house and flex some brain muscles. Friends will be excited for the invite, so put it out there and make memories on Tuesday nights. A local host presents challenges with six questions in six categories. The heated benches are calling. 6-7:30pm. Free.
Mountain Burger Trivia Tuesdays Trivia Tuesday at Mountain Burger! Free to play! Prizes & fun every Tuesday! 7:30-9pm. Free.
Pinky G’s Pizzeria TRIVIA NIGHT Test the knowledge bank in a casual/laid-back atmosphere. Pizza, beer and trivia. Free to play and prizes for 1st and 2nd place. 6-8pm. Free.
River’s Place Bingo! Have fun, win $$ and help out a local non profit organization Cards $1$5 6-8pm. $1-$5
River’s Place Wildlife Bingo Win cash prizes and support our organization and mission to help inspire the high desert community to care for and protect native wildlife through education, conservation, rescue and rehabilitation! 6-8pm. Prices vary.
Silver Moon Brewing MILK FOR THE ANGRY, LONG DEER & SUNGRATER Sungrater is a local garage and psychedelic rock band featuring Andrew Egli on guitar, Rory Isbell on bass, Sean Garvin on drums, and Tarik Rawlings giving guitars and vocals. Sungrater blends various influences from surf rock, acid rock, noisy postpunk, and Middle Eastern music into a dynamic, high-energy sound. 6-9pm. $14.38
The Commonweath Pub Michelle Van Handel with guests/1-year jazz anniversary party Michelle Van Handel is performing with special guests for a great night of jazz, and celebrate 1 year of Tuesday Night Jazz at The Commonwealth Pub. This will be a night to remember. 7-9pm. Free.
Milk for the Angry, Long Deer, and Sungrater will play live at Silver Moon Brewing on Tue., April 7, from 6-9pm.
Silver Moon Brewing
25 Years of Strengthening Families.
Dear Friends,
Twenty-five years ago, MountainStar began with a simple belief:
Every child deserves a safe and healthy start.
Since then, thousands of children and families across Central Oregon have walked through our doors – finding stability, confidence, and hope.
What hasn’t changed is the reality that families face enormous stress — housing insecurity, mental health challenges, family violence, and isolation. These stressors can overwhelm even the most loving caregivers.
What has changed is MountainStar’s reach and depth of impact.
Today, we serve families across five Central Oregon communities providing wrap-around, trauma-informed care. MountainStar focuses on prevention - reducing stress before crisis turns into tragedy.
The nonprofit landscape continues to evolve. MountainStar has adapted, grown stronger, and remained steady for families who depend on us.
That stability exists because of you.
Your generosity has built this legacy. Your commitment has kept children safe. Your partnership has made prevention possible.
As we celebrate 25 years, we invite you to help us build the next 25!
With heartfelt gratitude,
KARA TACHIKAWA Executive Director MountainStar Family Relief Nursery
The Heart of Prevention
first 1,000 days of a child’s life — a critical window for brain development, attachment, and emotional regulation.
When families are overwhelmed, children absorb that stress. When families receive consistent, compassionate, traumainformed support, children thrive.
This is not short-term intervention. This is long-term prevention.
And prevention strengthens entire communities.
1
Central Oregon Location
1 children and family members served annually
126
For a quarter century, MountainStar has been changing the trajectory of children’s lives in Central Oregon. Today - 2026 Then - 2001
5
1 bold prevention model determined team members
5 Central Oregon Locations
49 Team Members
Children in our programs remain safe from abuse and neglect.
3,000+ 1,300+ 1,000+
5,000+ children and family members served annually home visits each year therapeutic classroom hours annually volunteer hours powering our mission
For more impact details, please visit mtstar.org/our-outcomes.
mtstar.org | @mountainstar_relief_nursery
MOUNTAINSTAR’S COMMITMENT
Updated and Expanded Therapeutic Centers in Madras and Prineville
Research shows early intervention changes longterm outcomes — breaking cycles of trauma, meeting childhood developmental milestones, strengthening families, and keeping kids safe. YOU make it possible.
25 Years of Service = of children served staying safe from abuse and neglect children and family members served
Expanded Mental Health Services Across All Sites
Stronger Partnerships Throughout Central Oregon
How you show up makes a difference.
Sustainable Funding that Protects Families from Service Disruption
Continued Measurable Prevention Outcomes
Thanks to you, the next 25 years are within reach.
Join Partners for Kids
Attend Birdies 4 Babies
Volunteer your time
Advocate for prevention
Together, we keep kids safe. Together, we strengthen families. Together, we shape the next 25 years of prevention. children tomorrow. Your investment today protects
A COMMUNITY BUILT ON RESILIENCE
MountainStar has navigated economic shifts, public health crises, and evolving funding landscapes. Through each season, this community has shown up — with generosity, compassion, and belief in prevention.
Local Businesses Volunteers Foundations
Monthly Donors Legacy Supporters
Local support matters more than ever. MountainStar remains financially thoughtful, strategically prepared, and deeply committed to safeguarding the programs families rely on.
We are steady. We are prepared. We are here.
OUR LOCATIONS:
MountainStar Bend: (541) 322-6820
MountainStar Redmond: (541) 527-1025
MountainStar La Pine: (541) 213-6502
MountainStar Madras: (541) 475-2537
MountainStar Prineville: (541) 416-0146
THANK YOU TO OUR PARTNERS 4 KIDS!
CHECK OUT OUR EVENTS:
April 9
Madras Community Table
April 17 Madras Open House
April 21
April 30
August 8
August 9
October 31
Prineville Community Table
Community 4 Kids Care Fair
Birdies 4 Babies Gala
Birdies 4 Babies Golf Tournament
Witches Paddle
For
and
8 Wednesday
The Capitol Karaoke Drink specials! Air guitars! Come see for yourself. 8pm-1am. Free.
The Coyote Free Line Dance Lessons Free beginner-friendly line dance lessons with instructor Alex Reininger. Learn two fun dances in one hour—no experience needed! 7-8pm. Free. Craft Kitchen and Brewery Comedy Open Mic Night Open mic comedy on Bend’s NE side. Come down, eat some BBQ, drink some drinks, and be prepared to laugh. 7:30-9pm. Free.
Desert Rose Cactus Lounge ELSEWHERE (after dark): A Spirit-Led Speakeasy Bend’s nomadic tea temple is back! It’s popping up after hours at the Desert Rose Cactus Lounge for an evening of collective interbeing. We envision this evening as a creative arcana: analog nightlife for those craving depth, artistry, and genuine connection - with a touch of mystery. 6-10pm. $20-30.
DIY Cave Silver Metal Clay with Natural Stones This class is for anyone who has been curious about how metal clay works, and likes creating with natural stones. Students will cover the basic skills of working with Metal Clay including how to achieve nice textures and create a pendant or a pair of earrings. 6-9pm. $129.
Dogwood At The Pine Shed Transmission: ‘80s Dark Wave Social Club Immerse yourself in the sounds of the ’80s underground. DJ Mark Brody spins Joy Division, Bauhaus, The Cure, Clan of Xymox, and more at Dogwood at The Pine Shed. A moody night of goth, post-punk, and darkwave. Second Wednesday of every month, 7-10pm. Free.
Hosmer Bar Trivia Night Brainy banter and cold drinks! Whether one is a seasoned quiz champ or just in it for the laughs, gather the crew and test everyone’s knowledge! 7-9pm. Free.
Portello Lounge Music Bingo Music Bingo is hosted by the always entertaining Rachel Fishman, who keeps the crowd singing and laughing all night! It’s the perfect bonus to a night out enjoying great food, drinks and good company at Portello! 6:30-8:30pm. Free.
Silver Moon Brewing Lilli Worona & John Shipe John Shipe (@John_Shipe) is an accomplished Americana/Rock artist from Eugene who has been playing live music for over 20 years. He previously played and toured nationally with the Renegade Saints, a hugely successful rock band from Portland, Oregon. He now plays full-time as a singer/songwriter/guitarist across the state. 7-10pm. $12.24
Silver Moon Brewing $5 Comedy Night There are many things in Bend that one can’t buy for five dollars, but $5 can get a person a ticket to some of the best laughs in Bend! This show features: Katy Ipock, Brian Keister, Ness Devine, Jason Leonardo, Cam Stone, Jon Brown, and Laura B. Wright. 21+. Strong Content Expected. 7:30-9pm. $5.
The Commonweath Pub Scott Foxx Solo Attendees will love this performance by multi-instrumentalist and singer/songwriter Scott Foxx. the audience is certainly in for a treat! 7:30-9:30pm. Free.
MUSIC
Black Violin This event is part of Black Violin’s Full Circle Tour, where GRAMMY-nominated duo Wil Baptiste and Kev Marcus redefine the possibilities of music by merging classical depth with hip-hop’s pulse. This tour captures the essence of returning to where it all began—transformed and reimagined. April 8, 7:30pm. Tower Theatre, 835 NW Wall St., Bend. Contact: 541-317-0700. info@towertheatre.org. $39 - $149 (plus $8 Historic Preservation fee).
Drum Tao Established in 1993, with the dream of creating the best show in the world using “Wadaiko”, or Japanese drums, the instrument which has a very rare and unique variety of sound expressions. Drum Tao set their base at Oita, Japan and started creating their own music, stage set-ups, and costumes. April 2, 7:30pm. Tower Theatre, 835 NW Wall St., Bend. Contact: 541-317-0700. info@towertheatre.org. $39 - $59 (plus $8 Historic Preservation fee).
DANCE
Tango in Bend Learn and dance Argentine Tango. Whether a beginner or an experienced dancer, this community welcomes all. First class is free! 6:30 - Intermediate Class (for those with previous experience). 7:15 - Beginners Class. 8:30 - Practice for all. Wednesdays, 6:30-9:30pm. Sons of Norway Hall, 549 NW Harmon Blvd., Bend. Contact: 818-207-1363. info@tangoinbend.com. $10 class & practice, $5 practice only. Worthy Boots & Brews We’re bringing you new line dance lessons and an hour of open dance floor time. Inside the Hop-Mahal at the Eastside Pub. Family-friendly. Beginner-friendly. First Tuesday of every month, 6:30-8:30pm. Through May 6. Worthy Brewing - Main Pub and Brewery, 495 NE Bellevue Dr., Bend. Contact: howdy@swingnline.com. Free.
FILM EVENTS
Exhibition on Screen: Turner & Constable Two of Britain’s greatest painters, J.M.W. Turner and John Constable were also the greatest of rivals. Born within a year of each other, both used landscape painting to reflect the changing world around them. Discover unexpected sides to both artists with intimate views of sketchbooks and personal items and insights. April 8, 6:45-8:30pm. Sisters Movie House, 720 Desperado Court, Sisters. Contact: 541-5498833. inquiries@sistersmoviehouse.com. $17.
Fly Fishing Film Tour 2026 The Fly Fishing Film Tour (F3T) is proud to celebrate its 20th anniversary marking two decades of unforgettable stories, breathtaking landscapes, and a community bound by a passion for fly fishing. This milestone year promises to be a landmark event. April 1, 6:45-9:15pm. Sisters Movie House, 720 Desperado Court, Sisters. Contact: 541-5498833. inquiries@sistersmoviehouse.com. $17.
ARTS + CRAFTS
Crochet Café Fancy Nancy is the host at Fancywork Yarn Shop. This 2-hour hook session is designed specifically to foster community among the crochet crew. All skill levels are welcome in this weekly drop-in event. Thursdays, 1-3pm. Fancywork Yarn Shop, 200 NE Greenwood Avenue, Bend. Contact: 541-323-8686. hello@fancywork.com. Free.
First Friday Makers Market Help support Brightside Animal Center and shop at the First Friday Makers Market in the SCP Redmond Hotel Dry Canyon Room! A portion of sales will be donated to Brightside! People will enjoy local makers & live music from 4-7pm on Friday April 3rd during First Friday! April 3, 4-7pm. SCP Redmond Hotel, 521 Southwest 6th Street, Redmond. Contact: 541760-0723. Chelsea.childers95@gmail.com. Free.
Kids Studio: Hand Sewing Kids will explore hand sewing with Sabrina of Bend Alterations, practicing basic stitches, making an animal pin cushion, and sewing a stuffed animal. All materials are included. Wednesdays, 1:30-3:30pm. Through April 29. FREAK’N ART, 1265 NW Wall st., Bend. Contact: 541-508-7438. HelloFreakNArt@gmail.com. $250.
Love In A Letter - Website Launch Local artist Lindsey Loughry has launched a new online business featuring tiny letters, with huge heart. Send a mini letter to someone you love, or customize a card for your little one from The Tooth Fairy. All complete with wax seal and whimsy. LoveInALetter.com. April 3. Contact: 808-3725896. upcycledart.bend@gmail.com. $14.
PRESENTATIONS
+ EXHIBITS
Bend ET Expert Lab— Leading Change and Building Resilience Participants will be introduced to proven change management frameworks such as ADKAR, along with strategies for building resilience and maintaining momentum during times of transition. Through practical insights and real world examples, participants will learn how to communicate with clarity, coach with empathy, and lead others through change with confidence. April 8, 3:45-6pm. Obsidian Hall, OSU-Cascades, 1500 SW Chandler Ave., Bend. $35/$25 Members. Bend’s Ski History and People The event will celebrate the people and places that fostered the Bend ski community! Enjoy a talk on Bend’s early skiing with local historian Steve Stenkamp, followed by a screening of the Mt. Bachelor Sports Education Foundation’s award-winning documentary about Mt. Bachelor’s pioneering founder: “Bill Healy: A Man Who Loved a Mountain.” April 2, 6-7:30pm. 10 Barrel Brewing Co. Pub & Brewing Facility, 62950 NE 18th St., Bend. Contact: 5413121029. laurelh@deschuteslibrary.org. Free. Indigenous Speakers Series: A Recipe for Resilience Pre-contact foods are a testament to the resilience of Native lifestyles and should be part of our modern kitchens. Founder and CEO of Indigikitchen Mariah Gladstone (Blackfeet/ Cherokee) will discuss the history of Indigenous food systems, as well as the relationship between cultural identity, health, and native plants and animals. April 8, 6-8pm. High Desert Museum, 59800 US-97, Bend. Contact: 541-3824754. info@highdesertmuseum.org. $12.
THEATER
International Beaver Day Movie and Celebration To celebrate International Beaver Day, Deschutes Brewery and Public House are hosting a showing of The Biggest Dam Movie You Ever Saw, a 1987 IMAX movie about a beaver family. The film provides a heartfelt perspective, following the beavers as they build a lodge, raise a family, confront dangers, and transform their environment. April 7, 5:30-7:30pm. Deschutes Brewery & Public House, 1044 NW Bond St., Bend. Contact: 541-699-1606. maureen@thinkwildco.org. $10. Natasha, Pierre & The Great Comet of 1812 “Bend’s Biggest Party” From Dave Malloy comes an electropop opera based on a scandalous slice of Leo Tolstoy’s War and Peace. Fresh off Broadway, The Greenhouse stages this lofty and immersive production! Drama and wonderful music with 11 actors, 8 pit members, and all the delectible storytelling. Thursdays-Sundays, 7:3010pm. Through May 2. The Greenhouse Cabaret, 1017 NE 2nd St., Bend. Contact: 541-330-4086. info@thegreenhousecabaret.com. $20-75.
WORDS
The Beaver Den - Scientific Literacy Book Club Each month, the group selects a published research paper relating to beavers to read and discuss. Beavers are fascinating animals with so many mechanisms for shaping their environment. Reading scientific articles will give attendees a deeper understanding of how their influences on other species and environmental processes are studied. April 1, 5:30-7pm. Dogwood At The Pine Shed, 821 NE Second St., Bend. Contact: 541-699-1606. maureen@thinkwildco. org. Free.
COCC Poetry Month Celebrations This is a celebration of national Poetry Month with workshops, performances, and poetry slams on COCC’s Bend, Redmond, Prineville, and Madras campuses. For a complete listing of events and more details, visit barber.cocc.edu/poetry. All events are free and open to the public. Tue, April 7, 4-5:30pm. Central Oregon Community College, 2600 NW College Way, Bend. Contact: 541-383-7563. Free.
Ruins by Lily Brooks-Dalton Lily Brooks-Dalton, author GMA Book Club Pick The Light Pirate, will be here to discuss her new book, Ruins, a powerful, deeply resonant novel about an ambitious archaeologist in pursuit of a rare artifact from an ancient civilization that would not only change her life but potentially society at large. April 4, 5:30-6:30pm. Roundabout Books, 900 NW Mount Washington Dr., #110, Bend. Contact: 541-306-6564. events@ roundaboutbookshop.com. $5.
ETC.
Bluebird Improv w/ Liam Gibler Bluebird Improv is a powerhouse lineup of comedy veterans delivering a fast-paced, completely unscripted night of improv built on audience suggestions and razor-sharp comedic instincts. The troupe features an all-star cast including Tim Meadows, Edi Patterson, Marc Evan Jackson, Matt Walsh, Joe Canale, and Brad Morris. April 1, 7:30pm. Tower Theatre, 835 NW Wall St., Bend. Contact: 541-317-0700. info@towertheatre.org. $39 - $64 (plus $8 Historic Preservation fee).
OUTDOOR EVENTS
Public Lands, Public Voices: Reclaiming Roadless Forests Local organizations and community leaders at this community event will teach, celebrate, and speak up for threatened roadless forests in Oregon. Attendees will learn about the national threat to wild, roadless public lands—and take action to defend them. Light snacks will be provided. April 6, 5:307:30pm. OSU Cascades Ray Hall Atrium, 1500 SW Chandler Ave, Bend. Contact: sg@oregonwild. org. Free.
Deschutes Brewery and Public House is playing the 1987 IMAX movie, “the Biggest Dam Movie You Ever Saw,” on Tue., April 7, from 5:30-7:30pm.
Francesco Ungaro
By Wally Hofmann
GUNG HO Imani Winds X Andy Akiho: BeLoud, BeLoved, BeLonging
Central Oregon’s music scene takes a bold, resonant step forward this spring as a new performing arts series presented by OSU-Cascades and the Patricia Valian Reser Center for the Creative Arts —known as PRAx— continues a new performance series at the Tower Theatre. The April 12 concert, BeLoud, BeLoved, BeLonging, brings together the Grammy-winning Imani Winds and trailblazing
the group combines technical precision with a fearless approach to programming. Their repertoire spans traditional works, contemporary commissions, and reimagined arrangements, all delivered with what critics often describe as “effortless virtuosity.”
In this collaboration, that virtuosity is matched by cohesion. The interplay between Akiho’s percussion and the ensemble’s winds achieves a remark
Get ready for the 2026 edition of our highly anticipated Restaurant Guide!
We're serving up a delectable selection of Central Oregon’s finest dining experiences, alongside the prestigious Restaurant of the Year and Food Cart of the Year awards. Plus, we'll be spotlighting the hottest newcomers with our Rookie Restaurant and Rookie Food Cart of the Year recognitions. Secure your spot in this must-have guide and connect with our engaged readership today.
Ad Deadline: April 14
GROUPS + MEETUPS
Ribbon Cutting for Parkside Place, Hayden Homes—April 7 This is a ribbon cutting celebration for Parkside Place by Hayden Homes! The ceremony will be at 4pm, but attendees are encouraged to come early at 3:30pm. April 7, 3:30-5:30pm. Parkside Place, 61052 NE Give Pl., Bend. Free.
FUNDRAISING
Assistance League of Bend - Dream Trip Raffle Assistance League of Bend is holding its annual Dream Trip Raffle. The winner will choose their dream vacation from five fabulous getaways, all valued at over $4,300. Help clothe a child in need in Deschutes County. Visit AssistanceLeagueBend.org for more information and to purchase tickets. Mondays-Sundays. Through April 15. Contact: 541-389-2075. info@ assistanceleaguebend.org. $30.
Egg My House! A Fundraiser for Furry Freight! Let the “bunnies” do all the work hiding toy and candy filled eggs in the yard for the kids and dog treat filled eggs for the fur kids! This is available in Bend only! Reservations available until April 2nd or until they sell out! Proceeds benefit the local nonprofit Furry Freight. April 4, 8-10pm. Bend, RSVP for address, Bend. Contact: 573-228-0867. info@furryfreight.org. $25-$70. Save the Endangered Cheetah with Dr. Laurie Marker Dr. Marker, Cheetah Conservation Fund’s Executive Founder and Director, and a Time Magazine “Hero for the Planet” headlines this special educational and fundraiser event. Learn about Cheetah conservation, shop for Namibian crafts, join our silent auction, enjoy refreshments. April 4, 4:30-7:30pm. Embark Coworking Community, 2843 NW Lolo Drive, Bend. Contact: 208-860-9660. wildid@gmail. com. Free.
EVENTS + MARKETS
Easter Dining at Currents Celebrate Easter all day at Currents at the Riverhouse! Start with a special brunch featuring seasonal delights, then enjoy a chef-curated dinner with festive flavors, all with stunning Deschutes River views. There will be live music by local artists to accompany the holiday celebration from 11 am to 1 pm. April 5, 10am-9pm. Currents at the Riverhouse, 3075 N. Hwy 97, Bend. Contact: 541389-3111. info@riverhouse.com. Prices vary.
First Thursday in Madras - Downtown Sip & Shop Spring is in the air and Sip & Shop season is back! Take a stroll down 5th Street in Madras from 5 to 7 on the First Thursday of April and see what local retail and pop-up shops & art galleries have to offer. April 2, 5-7pm. Black Bird Magical Tea & Tales, 191 S 5th street, Madras. Contact: 907-841-0367. madrasdowntown@ gmail.com. Free.
THRIFTS POP-UP Vintage Gems , pre-loved heat, one-of-a-kind finds! Thrifters, get ready to dig through racks of curated thrift and vintage pieces that bring character, style, and serious personality. Sustainable fashion never looked this good. Sounds by DJ Timothy Bee from 123pm. April 5, 11am-4pm. Upp Liquids, 550 SW Industrial way, Bend. Contact: 541-325-6676. vintagehouse81@gmail.com. Free.
FAMILY + KIDS
Collage Poetry for Teens In this poetry workshop participants will make collage poems out of found words and images to create something surprising and original. Starting with some poetry warm-up exercises, they will then dig into heaps of books and images for inspiration. Ages 13-18 April 6. The Open Arts Center, 999 NE 2nd St, Bend, OR 97701, Bend. Contact: 978-7714635. claire@theopenartscenter.org. $15.
Easter Bunny Open Play Event This is a fun-filled kids event on the Friday before Easter! Explore the ninja gym during our exciting Easter Egg Hunt! Take photos with the Free Spirit Easter Bunny, “Nibbles”! Bubbles, music and fun times will be had by all! April 3, 9-10:30, 10:45am12:15pm and 2-3:30pm. Contact: 541-241-3919. info@freespiritbend.com. $25.
Easter Egg Hunt Families and participants should not arrive late because this easter egg hunt starts at 9am sharp! This is an event for children ages 0–12. The event is put on by Bend Elks Lodge #1371 April 5, 9-10am. Juniper Swim & Fitness Center, 800 NE Sixth St., Bend. Contact: 248-935-4592. boddyrealestate@gmail.com. Free.
Nature Kids: Sky Explorers! Get outside and explore the nature of Central Oregon on guided family nature walks just for kids ages 5-10. Kids and their families can explore, imagine, and grow through hands-on activities and experiences outside. April 8, 2:30-4pm. Sawyer Park, 62999 O.B. Riley Road, Bend. Contact: 541330-0017. event@deschuteslandtrust.org. Free.
Ninja Elite 6-Week Series (Winter/ Spring) Fast-paced and designed with challenging Ninja Warrior obstacle-based circuits, kids will learn new fitness conditioning techniques, parkour moves, and dynamic climbing and gymnastics movements. All levels are welcome. 6-week series, multiple days/ times of the week to choose from, age 9 - 13, drop-off. Thursdays, 5:30-6:30pm. Through May 14. Contact: 541-241-3919. info@freespiritbend. com. $144.
Prenatal Yoga 6-Week Series Rejuvenate, relax, and recharge as we move, breathe, and build community with other expectant moms! You’ll reduce common pregnancy discomforts and tensions, prepare your body for birth, improve your postpartum recovery, and bring mindfulness to your daily life. All levels/stages of pregnancy are welcome. Saturdays, 10:3011:45am. Through May 16. Contact: 541-2413919. info@freespiritbend.com. $144.
FOOD + DRINK
Kitchen Take Over: Cerstin Cheatham This class is all about crowd-favorite appetizers — the kind people will want to recreate for their next gathering! April 3, 5:30-8:30pm. Bleu Bite Catering, 63016 NE 18th St, Bend. Contact: 541388-1104. info@bleubitecatering.com. $65.
Makers Barket The Makers Barket will be at the Brightside Thrift Store for people who want to shop a broad range of local offerings and enjoy delicious food from food carts help support Brightside Animal Center! Live music will ben playing while shoppers enjoy the offerings from 20+ local vendors! April 4, Noon-4pm. Brightside Animal Thrift Store, 838 NW Fifth St., Redmond. Contact: 541-760-0723. cchilders@brightsideanimals.org. Free.
Moonlight Dinner Series An unforgettable fusion of high-altitude adventure and refined Cascadian cuisine. A rare opportunity to experience Mt. Bachelor after dark, suspended between the stars and the snow. April 3, 4-8pm. Mt. Bachelor, 13000 Century Drive, Bend.
BEER + DRINK
Chablis-Easter + Mimosas! Viaggio’s version of the best Easter Celebration: Chablis & Champagne flights, $7 Mimosas, and a slate of European-style light bites. This is happening all day Saturday and Sunday, no reservations needed. This is the most relaxing and delicious way to celebrate the holiday weekend…it’s Chablis-Easter! April 4, Noon-9pm and April 5, 2-8pm. Viaggio Wine Merchant, 210 SW Century Dr., Bend. Contact: 541299-5060. info@viaggiowine.com. Prices vary. 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.
Robert Biale Tasting Seminar Biale Vineyards is revered for its expressive and well-balanced Napa Valley Zinfandels and Petit Sirah, a result of its signature focus on ‘old vines’ and heritage grape growing. Participants will welcome David ‘Coach’ Todd as he guides them through 5 wines from the estate’s collection. Reservations required and limited seated. April 8, 5:30-7pm. Viaggio Wine Merchant, 210 SW Century Dr., Bend. Contact: 541-299-5060. info@ viaggiowine.com. $35/$25 for Wine Club..
HEALTH + WELLNESS
Krav Maga Self Defense Classes These practical classes teach one all the basics they need for an effective self-defense. This is perfect for those who have always wanted to learn the basics in how to defend themselves! All genders, ages 15 and older, are welcome. The first class is free and participants are encouraged to come early. Thursdays, 7:30-8:30pm. Through May 1. Tula Movement Arts, 2797 NW Clearwater Drive, Suite 100, Bend. Contact: 503-705-7838. bendselfdefense@gmail.com. Free.
Pink Moon Sound Bath This April Pink Moon experience will give people a restorative candle-lit sound bath designed to support deep rest and energetic renewal. Crystal and Tibetan singing bowls, gentle guidance and soft candlelight will create an immersive experience. April 3, 7-8:15pm. Namaspa Yoga Studio, 1135 NW Galveston Ave., Bend. Contact: 541-550-8550. soundbathstillness@gmail.com. $30.
Sonic Bliss - Breath & Soundbath Experience Drop in deep into the lungs, heart, body and spirit within this healing 432 Hz Crystal Bowl, Didgeridoo, Reiki, Soundbath and Breathwork Experience. Reiki energy heals. So does conscious Breath, Music and pure Sound. They are all flowing freely. April 5, 6-7:15pm. Unity Spiritual Community of Central Oregon, 63645 Scenic Drive, Bend. Contact: 808-887-0830. lisacswisher@gmail.com. $28.29.
Taizé Choir of Central Oregon This event features an hour of meditative Taizé music, prayer and silence at our monthly interfaith service. All are welcome. Come early to participate in our rehearsal at 6:15 pm. First Thursday of every month, 7-8pm. Through May 7. Trinity Episcopal Church - St. Helens Hall, 231 NW Idaho St., Bend. Contact: 541-815-5574. taizebend@ gmail.com. Free - donations accepted.
Time Magazine’s 2000 “Hero of the Planet,” Dr. Laurie Marker, will headline an educational fundraiser event. Refreshments, silent auctions, education on cheetah conservation and more expected at Embark on Sat., April 4, from 4:30 to 7:30pm.
Johnna Roy
CHOW C Above the Old Mill, Argentina Finds a Foothold Los
Andes brings scratch-made empanadas, bold chimichurri and a welcoming spirit to an often overlooked location
By Donna Britt
Perched just above the hum of the Old Mill, Los Andes Sports Bar and Cafe feels a little like a secret you want to pass along before it gets out. Open since November 2025 in the former Tradesmen Coffee and Tap House space on SW Upper Terrace Drive, this Argentine-inspired hangout asks you to do just a bit of seeking. The reward is a warm welcome, a patio with a view and a menu that leans hard into comfort, culture and scratch-made cooking.
Finding it the first time can feel like a mild scavenger hunt, especially if you are cruising through Bend on autopilot. But once you lock in the route, it clicks. The location makes perfect sense for anyone already orbiting the Box Factory or Old Mill District, and the slight remove from the bustle gives the place an easygoing, neighborhood energy.
Inside, the vibe is casual and inviting, with indoor and outdoor seating and a bar that signals its sports leaning intentions. Soccer plays a starring role here, a nod to the roots of owner Nahuel Soto. On game days, you can imagine the space filling out with fans chasing that communal thrill. For now, it feels more like a hidden clubhouse waiting to be discovered.
The menu is compact but thoughtful, built around Argentine comfort staples. Start with the empanadas, which are made from scratch and priced at a reasonable six dollars each. These are not dainty, decorative pastries. The lightly golden dough is neatly crimped and generously filled.
The De Carne empanada is a strong entry point, packed with seasoned ground beef, onions and garlic. It comes paired with a bright, herb forward chimichurri that deserves its own spotlight. Fresh, punchy and balanced, it cuts through the richness of the filling and elevates the whole bite. It’s one of the best chimichurri sauces I’ve sampled in a long time.
Even more surprising was the Humita empanada, filled with creamed corn and provolone. It lands on the sweeter side, lush and silky, and gets a lift from a side of tomato and onion salsa that brings just enough acidity to keep things in check. It’s the kind of item that might convert someone who usually skips the vegetarian option.
If you happen to arrive early enough, there’s a breakfast angle worth exploring. A bacon, egg and cheese empanada makes a strong case for rethinking your morning routine. There are also traditional pastries like Media Luna, a smaller, sweeter cousin to the croissant, and the Estrella, a layered puff pastry crowned with dulce de leche or pastry cream. The
catch is timing. These tend to disappear before lunch, sometimes well before, which speaks to their popularity but can be a bit of a gamble for late risers.
Beyond the pastry case, the menu expands into heartier fare. Milanesa, a breaded cutlet offered in beef or chicken, shows up in several forms, including the Messirve, topped with tomato, egg and ham. Sandwiches like the Choripan, a split sausage loaded with chimichurri and criolla, and the Lomito, stacked with thin sliced beef, ham, egg, greens, tomato and a chimichurri-laced mayo, deliver bold, layered flavors. There are also a couple of burgers for those sticking closer to the familiar.
For something more snackable, the fry options go big. Caballo fries arrive topped with two fried eggs, while Milanesa fries pile on chopped cutlet, cheddar, criolla and egg. These are fork and knife situations, unapologetically indulgent and clearly designed for sharing, or not. A short list of personal pizzas rounds things out, each priced at an approachable twelve dollars. The Fugazetta leans into onions and mozzarella, while the Chimiprovo highlights provolone and chimichurri, echoing the flavors that run throughout the menu.
Drinks are another strong suit. The full espresso bar covers the basics and then some, with Spanish Lattes, Dulce de Leche Lattes, and Mexican mochas adding a sweet, spiced twist. There are more than a dozen draft
beers and a cocktail list that veers into playful territory. The Dulce de Lechi Martini leans dessert-forward, while the Los Andes Con Amor mixes tequila blanco, cynar, fernet and mezcal into something smoky and assertive. It’s not a shy drink, but it fits the personality of the place.
Service, at least on recent visits, has been consistently warm. The owners are present, hands-on and clearly invested in both the food and the experience. There is a sense that they are listening, adjusting and trying to find the sweet spot between their vision and what Bend diners are looking for.
Los Andes Sports Bar and Cafe may not be on every radar yet, but it probably should be. For those willing to seek it out, there is real care in the cooking, a clear point of view, and the kind of hospitality that makes you want to come back. And next time, maybe just a little earlier, in hopes of finally catching one of those pastries before they vanish.
Los Andes Sports Bar & Cafe IG: losandes.bend 384 SW Upper Terrace Dr., #100, Bend, OR 541-241-6340
May 9th 3:00 - 6:00 PM
Scratch-made empanadas, with fillings ranging from beef to creamed corn, are a value at $6 apiece.
Donna Britt
LITTLE BITES
By Nic Moye Bistro Colette
What’s New in the Food World
Flights Wine Bar is now Bistro Colette. Chef/ Owner Jeremy Buck has created a menu with appetizers such as Pissaladière (a puff pastry with caramelized onions, olives and anchovies), ratatouille, smoked crab dip and fried calamari; charcuterie with choices that include chicken liver pate, rabbit roulade with truffle sauce and country pork terrine with pistachios; flatbreads; French onion soup and entrees such as coq au vin, juniper sage duck, Burride (cod, prawns, mussels and clams in a broth) and bistro mac-n-cheese.
“What we’re attempting to do is introduce people to some basic sort of French Country dishes that might be recognizable for people,” Buck told the Source. “The idea is to have a casual dining experience at a good price. It can be anything from somebody getting
Mimi’s Bagel Deli
Mimi’s Bagel Deli is mak ing the leap from food truck to brick and mortar. Work is underway preparing their new location on NW Galveston. Mimi’s specializes in hand-rolled, boiled New Jersey-style bagels. The menu also includes a variety of breakfast sandwiches, crumb cake, muffins, cinnamon rolls and cookies. One of the owners, Frank Anello, a fourth-generation baker, told the Source he hopes to have Mimi’s open in late June or July, with hours six days a week from 6am-2pm. He’s expanding the menu to include new cream cheese flavors,
off work and just wanting a quick bite or don’t want to cook at home… Or it could be celebrating on the weekend with family and friends.” Ultimately, he says it’s comfort food with fresh ingredients and not fine dining. He wants it to feel like a neighborhood bistro. Prices range from $15 up to about $30. Buck and his wife, Lian Schmidt, also own Salute Restaurant & Bar. Bistro Colette still offers a robust wine list, though Buck says he will start revising it to include more French wines. Customers can also enjoy daily happy hour, all day wine Wednesdays and fried chicken & champagne every Thursday.
Bistro Colette Tue-Thu 3:30-8pm, Fri-Sat 3:30-8:30pm 1444 NW College Way #1 flightswinebend.com/
a full line of pastries including some family recipes and espresso. The food truck will remain closed, but he hopes to do pop-ups in the future at special events. “Most importantly I want to create a spot that feels warm, fast-paced, and community-driven—whether you’re grabbing a quick bagel and coffee or hanging out for a bit,” he says.
Mimi’s Bagel Deli
Opening Late June or July 1314 Galveston Ave, Bend mimisbageldeli.com/s/splash
Redmond Pizzeria Under New Ownership
Grace and Hammer is under new ownership in Redmond. When the previous owner decided to leave Oregon, a group of five friends came together to ensure the wood-fired pizzeria would remain authentic. “We’ve all lived in Central Oregon for decades,” Ken Streater, one of the owners, told the Source. “It needed to continue and is something special… It’s a place that provides, in my opinion, a remarkable setting for the community to come enjoy Redmond food, but most importantly, a gathering spot for family and friends and colleagues that has such a welcoming and warm environment.” Streater also credits the employees for stepping up to be managers and support the transition. Grace and Hammer, located in a historic former church, was voted Best Pizza in Redmond last year by Source readers.
Grace and Hammer Thu-Sun 4-8pm 641 SW Cascade, Redmond graceandhammer.com/
BistroColette
Mimi'sBagels
CHOW C Burger Week Playbook: A Dad & Daughter Guide to Doing It Right
Tips to successfully navigate a menu of roughly 30 burgers in a single week
By Josh Cordell & Brynlee Cordell. Photos by Josh Cordell
Anyone can “do” Burger Week in Bend, but to do it well is another story.
It isn’t just about eating burgers. It’s about strategy, commitment and knowing, before you even sit down, whether your pants can handle what’s coming.
We’ve been training for this.
Our Burger Friday tradition started on Sept. 2, 2022, and we haven’t missed a single Friday since. Rain, snow, road trips. it doesn’t matter. Most weeks it’s the three of us: Mom, Emily filming, Dad eating, and Brynlee (also known as “Burger Girl,”) eating, smiling, and editing the videos afterward.
After a few years and a lot of burgers, we’ve learned a few things. Some the easy way. Some…not.
Here’s our official guide to doing Burger Week right. Dress for Success
Burger Week is not the time to dress your best. It’s the time to dress your smartest.
We recommend camo pants.
They’re your best defense against burger juice casualties. You spill and no one knows.
There are other ways to avoid this problem. You could sit with your legs under the table, eat over your plate, and generally not be a slob.
We haven’t mastered that yet.
So…camo pants.
Stretchy pants also deserve honorable mention. Plan accordingly.
Start Hungry (and Bring the Right People)
Go hungry. No snacking at home beforehand. This is not the time for a “quick bite” before your burger. If possible, hit your first burger coming off a fast. It might sound extreme, but it’s a bit of a secret insider tip—everything tastes better when you’re famished.
Burger Week is also better with people. Going with friends or family is highly recommended. Trying different burgers, comparing notes, and laughing over the mess forms memories you won’t forget. There’s just something about sharing the experience with burger buddies that makes it more enjoyable!
That said, sometimes you have to go it alone.
If you’re trying to hit multiple locations in one day, move at your own pace, or fully commit to the mission, a solo run might be the right call.
Not everyone understands that level of dedication, and you shouldn’t feel judged for wanting to eat numerous burgers in one day.
Order Like a Pro
The best move you can make during Burger Week is to ask one more question than everyone else.
Always ask what sauce they recommend. There might be something off-menu or overlooked that takes your burger or fries to another level.
Also, don’t just default to fries. Ask what side they recommend. Every now and then you’ll find something unexpected—like the baked beans at Baldy’s BBQ, that can end up being one of the best things on the table.
Burger Week is also not the time to play it safe. If there’s a crazy burger on the menu, get it. You can always have a regular burger next week. This is your chance to try something you wouldn’t normally order.
Build a Burger Strategy
Not every burger is meant to be picked up. Sometimes skipping the bun is the way to go.
If you’re gluten-free (or even forgoing the bun because you are counting carbs or calories) don’t assume your only option is a gluten-free bun. Some places get creative. At Richard’s Sliders in Redmond, for example, they’ll put your slider on two giant waffle fries!
Some spots do a great lettuce wrap. Others say “lettuce wrap” but really mean “burger salad,” which you’ll be eating with a knife and fork. Either way, it’s worth asking ahead of time so you know what you’re getting into.
If you’re going the lettuce wrap route, especially with a messy or spicy burger, consider using a knife and fork. Spicy hands are real—and they hurt more than you think!
Eat Smart
Here’s a rule to live by: fries are a “right now” food, and burgers are a “later too” food.
If you get fries, eat them immediately while they’re hot. Don’t wait. They are not as good later.
Burgers, on the other hand, hold up surprisingly well. If you’re trying to get the most out of Burger Week, it’s not a bad move to save part of your burger for later.
Or…just skip the fries altogether.
If a place is offering a $10 Burger Week burger that doesn’t come with fries, that might be your sign to go to a second location and get another $10 burger. This is Burger Week. Focus on the burgers.
A smart move? Keep a small cooler in your car. Seriously. That’s what we do.
A Final Word
Get a good picture of your burger before your first bite. You will not get a better one later.
Take a real first bite, not a polite one. You’re not the CEO of McDonald’s, it’s acceptable to bite into that bad boy.
Dress for success. Start hungry. Try the crazy burger. Ask the extra question. Bring the cooler.
You’ll probably find yourself making a few happy “this is amazing” noises along the way. And that’s OK. Do it right, and the only regret you’ll have is not wearing stretchier pants.
Brynlee Cordell and her dad, Josh Cordell.
Brynlee and Josh have a strategy and commitment to maximizing the burger experience.
“Off-season” finds Brynlee and Josh in training for Burger Week.
SC SCREEN Unzipped Hearts Devotion, leather and the surprising tenderness of “Pillion”
By Jared Rasic
As I get older, the more I realize that great, unconventional romances might be the most rewarding genre for me in my growth as a human being. A remarkable romance not only makes you swoon over the possibilities of love in this crazy world, but also allows you to see into the lives of people you don’t otherwise have any context for how they live. A romantic masterpiece doesn’t just shed new light on others, though; it can change how you view love and romance for the rest of your life.
As a cis, white male, it’s also easy for me to look at the more conventional ones that studios shove in front of other straight white people and feel condescended to, so it’s nice when a romance makes it in front of general audiences that actually has a chance to generate empathy and change lives. Don’t get me wrong, I’ll openly weep over safe choices like “The Notebook” or “The Bridges of Madison County,” but the ones that hit harder ask me to reevaluate romantic love in ways I’ve never imagined.
Think about how “Moonlight” explored the lonely desperation of a hyper-masculine gangster yearning to be gently held. How “Secretary” deconstructed a BDSM working relationship and turned it into something sexy and surprisingly sweet, showing audiences the tenderness of safe words. How “Carol” makes a lesbian romance in the 1950s into a swooningly romantic Neo-noir that asks its audience to imagine our elders in a different light. Whether it’s watching your partner evolve past you in “Her,” painting all of your red flags green in “Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind,” ignoring the boundary defying age gap in “Harold & Maude,” or re-writing the rules of unrequited love in “In the Mood for Love,” the all-time great romances not only make us drunk on the possibilities of the movies, but help us look at the limitations of our own lives through different eyes.
“Pillion,” starring the always mercurial Alexander Skarsgård and a lovely Harry Melling (who most of us remember as the nasty little jerk Dudley Dursley in the “Harry Potter” franchise) is a new romantic classic,
taking the inner workings of a world most of us have little or no experience with and making it accessible to an audience without treating them like uninvited tourists.
Melling plays Colin, an introverted, openly gay man who lives with his loving parents in London. He sings in his father’s barbershop quartet and, while not necessarily outwardly depressed or unhappy, is so profoundly lonely that any romantic attention makes him light up like the stars. Enter Skarsgård’s Ray, a dominant biker who sweeps Colin off his feet with a tersely worded sexual encounter in a back alley, only to keep him at arms’ (and chains’) length in a long-term, intense sub/ dom relationship.
For general audiences, what might seem like a titillating, shockingly sexy look into a subculture foreign to most actually has a lot more going on beneath the surface than expected. While the sex is graphic and the kink is strong, “Pillion” works equally as well as a tender romantic dramedy (RomDom? DomCom?) about the limits of devotion and the unspoken truth that physical submission doesn’t have to mean settling for less than what you need from your person. The film exists as a swooningly romantic love story, a deep dive into leather daddy biker culture, a family drama and a cringey character study without ever sacrificing one aspect of the storytelling for another.
The always reliable Skarsgård does so much here with just his eyes, offering alpha male intensity with
a quiet desperation and crippling fear of intimacy that breaks the heart more than once. Harry Melling holds ground with Skarsgård beautifully, making us not only root for these crazy kids to make it work, but also offering us new ways to look at how we submit to the world, not necessarily sexually, but in how we tamp down the people we want to be to make space for the person people assume that we are.
The movie won’t be for everyone (and it shouldn’t be), but anyone who doesn’t kink shame can find universal truths hiding in plain sight behind the assless chaps and dog collars. “Pillion” is nonjudgmental in its exploration of Ray and Colin and never once becomes voyeuristic, instead finding a warm, human empathy for these flawed men and the limits of their vulnerability and devotion.
“Pillion” has some pretty profound things to say about human nature, but nothing hit me harder than its very simple refrain of accepting that before we can truly ever commit to someone else, we have to commit to ourselves first. That real submission isn’t only sexual, but in allowing our vulnerabilities to taste the air and see the light of day. If we don’t accept what makes us tick, then no one else will have the opportunity to accept us in turn.
These takes all might be somewhat lacking in nuance, but that’s romance in a nutshell, isn’t it? Hearing something a million times and then understanding it on the millionth and first? People have been falling in love since the dawn of time, but no one else, ever, will fall as beautifully or as specifically as you do. “Pillion” understands that and allows its audience to see it in themselves, too. It permits us to ask for what we need even when we don’t know how to yet. What’s more romantic than that?
“Pillion”
Dir. Harry Lighton Grade: ANow playing at Tin Pan Theater
Alexander Skarsgård and Harry Melling, together at last.
O OUTSIDE Petersen Rock Garden Receives Some TLC
The museum will reopen April 4 after getting a much-needed makeover
By Nic Moye
The passion Rasmus Petersen felt as he began creating the Petersen Rock Garden in 1935 remains alive to this day in both the caretakers of the property and the visitors who flood the grounds daily. Petersen lovingly built the ornate rock sculptures over four acres on his rural property between Bend and Redmond, first sourcing the rocks from his potato field, then traveling within an 85-mile radius. He continued adding to the sculptures and created a museum and diner, until his death in 1952. It remained in his family for decades eventually selling to another family in 2022. The passage of time has taken a toll on the structures, but over the past few months, the museum received a remodel after being selected as the winner of Webfoot Home Improvement’s Project Serious 2025.
“We got a new floor. They had to repair the old floor. It was cracked and uneven,” Petersen Rock Garden Manager Tonia Smith told the Source. The museum’s interior also received a new coat of paint and an updated black light room which now has UV fluorescent chips in the floor. The work totaled more than $20,000.
“Webfoot has been holding Project Serious for 18 years now,” Webfoot General Manager Scott Johnson says. “Our owners Travis Ulrich and Gavin Hepp wanted to find the best way to give back to the community — through our service and craftsmanship. The first winner was the Ronald McDonald House of Bend.”
The Rock Garden, which is a nonprofit, continues to draw a crowd. Smith says during spring break they had between 100 to 200 daily visitors who are free to wander around the property to see multiple castle sculptures and miniature bridges made from colorful stones such as agate, jasper, thundereggs and obsidian. Some of the boulders are massive, but Petersen told folks that handling the stones and boulders was nowhere near the work he did in farming year after year, plowing fields on hundreds of acres and hauling off tons of rocks. Part of the special atmosphere also comes from more than three dozen peacocks and pea hens strolling the property. At this time of year, the males are fanning their colorful tail feathers to impress females during a mating ritual.
When a cabinet was removed from the museum for the remodel, crews found a brochure from the 1950s. They also have postcards showing how the property looked back then with flowers blooming between the rocks, something they’re planning to revive. There’s also a deteriorating swan boat, once used in the ponds. Smith says they have the blueprints and the hope is to build new ones once they have the money and after removing reeds overtaking the ponds. Volunteers play a key role in polishing rocks, doing repairs and maintenance. Petersen passed away in 1952 while sitting in a wicker chair, still on hand, in front of the stone fireplace inside the museum.
Memories of Petersen remain top of mind. Smith says her father was friends with him, and so far, five generations of her family have been visiting the Rock Garden, soon to be six generations when her five-month-old granddaughter comes for the first time in the fall. “There’s a lot of people who come out and tell us their generational stories. You know, ‘I came here as a kid, had to bring my kids,’ and ‘I was here with my grandparents,’ or ‘my grandparents knew Rasmus.’ So, it’s a pretty neat place. Everybody’s coming together,” she says.
The museum, which has been closed since February, will reopen during a grand reopening celebration on Saturday, April 4 from 1 to 4pm. “There will be a ribbon cutting, a silent auction, Webfoot is holding a free raffle, we are supplying limited beverages and Peterson is going to have light hors d’oeuvres. I believe Acme Hotdogs is going to have a food cart there as well. It’s going to be an amazing afternoon,” Johnson says. Voting for Webfoot’s 2026 Project Serious beneficiary is live through April 5. Volunteers with knowledge of geology will also be in the museum to talk about the rocks on display.
“We’ve been waiting for this and are pretty excited,” Smith says.
Petersen Rock Garden
Museum Grand Reopening Sat. Apr 4 1-4pm
Regular Hours: Thu-Mon 10am-4pm 7930 SW 77th St, Redmond petersenrockgarden.org/ Grand Reopening Free / Other times: Suggested $10 donation
by Nic
Rasmus Petersen started creating his rock garden in 1935 and spent nearly two decades building his masterpiece. Visitors can wander the grounds amid the rock sculptures and peacocks. A grand reopening celebration for the museum takes place April 4 from 1 to 4pm.
Photos
Moye
SMOKE SIGNALS
By Josh Jardine
Cannabis Discrimination
Second
Class Canna Citizens
Oregon’s Adult Use Cannabis program is 10 years old, and those of us who work within it thought by now we would have - more - than we do. Things like social cannabis consumption spaces, cannabis tourism packages, and events on par with the many beer, wine, cider, and spirits festivals Oregon hosts.
Such options would have obvious financial benefits, but the lesser discussed intangible of normalizing cannabis use is just as valuable. Because despite everything that cannabis contributes financially to our state, cities, and counties, there remains discrimination toward those who work with, and use, cannabis.
if I had a few minutes to talk about other services they offered. . . .
That same night, I was providing those services to a local music festival. We were visiting with headlining artists and their crews and providing laser-etched, festival-branded stash jars filled with local award-winning flowers, rosin gummies, a selection of high end teas from a local producer, and cookies from a local bakery. To no one’s surprise, this pre-show, no-charge gifting session was enthusiastically welcomed.
This isn’t anything new. Because cannabis is a Schedule I drug on the DEA Drug Schedule, it remains illegal on the Federal level. The announced rescheduling last December will move it from I to III, at some point, which will bene fit researchers, patients, and cannabis businesses. But until it’s descheduled, like other intoxicants such as alcohol, barriers to services such as credit, banking and other business essentials remain out of reach.
Last month gave me some first hand reminders that my involvement with cannabis makes me unwanted in some circles, and altogether restricted from others. (This isn’t because someone didn’t want me lighting up next to their children. I don’t do that, you don’t either. Be cool.)
I tried to open a new business checking account with the same big bank I’ve had a personal account for 15 years. The bubbly representative at my branch asked what my business does, and I explained the “curation, presentation, and gifting of cannabis and cannabis infused collections to visiting bands, crews and VIPS, aka “Backstage Budtending.”
There was a long pause.
“So, do you, uh, are you, um, handling the marijuana? And getting paid to do so?” the representative nervously asked. I answered yes. “Ok. Great. Yeah, we can’t open an account for you.” They explained that I qualified as a cannabis business, although I don’t grow, process, package, or sell cannabis. And since they can’t do business with anyone profiting from cannabis, they couldn’t open the account. But they did appreciate my longtime personal checking account business, and
I met with some of the festival staff to share with them as well, and asked if they had seen the festival posts and stories we had done. They shared they had been enjoying them, and would have reposted, except their executive director didn’t want anything to do with cannabis. Even the posts with photos with just the teas and cookies, no cannabis, weren’t acceptable to share because the IG account contains the word “cannabis.” He had emphasized that this was a family friendly event, and cannabis is not family friendly. I didn’t ask how they had found their family friendly alcohol sponsor, or why their ED believed the very word cannabis would drive families away. FWIW, no one suggests cannabis use with the whole family, but partaking so you can spend time with them.
It’s demoralizing when someone views cannabis as detrimental, but countering decades of cannabis prohibitionist propaganda takes work. Doing so involves education through exposure, when cannabis is celebrated, explored, and shared, in the manner of, say, beer fests.
I’m proud to work in Oregon’s cannabis industry, which employs approximately 14,000, and has generated over $1 billion in state tax revenue, which among other things, funds “...free behavioral health and addiction treatment for more than 35,000 Oregonians all across the state, a first-of-its-kind program.” Recognition and respect of the industry benefits businesses. Trends show more consumers reducing or eliminating alcohol in favor of cannabis, and a majority favoring legalization. Partnering doesn’t encourage product abuse by minors, no more than an alcohol sponsorship does. $925 million sold in 2025, it’s not going anywhere.
By Nic Moye
April First Friday & Easter Events
Kick off spring with an art walk and holiday brunch
First Fridays are a monthly tradition in downtown Bend, Redmond and the Old Mill District. The Art & Wine Walk in the Old Mill kicks off at 3pm on April 3 so you can stop there first. In Downtown Bend and Redmond, festivities start at 5pm. While there are dozens of stores and galleries to enjoy, here are a few of this month’s highlights.
Canvas & Candles
Erin Steff of Heart Compass Creative will have a live art demo plus Wild Currant Candle Co. will also be on hand. Enjoy art, local products, food, drinks and community.
Fri. Apr. 3, 5-8pm
RE/MAX Key Properties
42 NW Greenwood Ave., Bend community.bendsource.com/bend/canvasand-cadles-an-april-first-friday-event/ Event?oid=24010847
Free
Youth Art Takeover
Celebrate visual and performing student artists during April’s First Friday. A student awards ceremony will be at the Commons Cafe & Taproom.
Easter Brunch is offered at several locations around Central Oregon but if you’re looking for something more to do with the kiddos here are a few ideas.
Easter Bunny Open Play (Ages 10 months-8 years)
Fri, Apr. 3, 9am-3:30pm Free Spirit Yoga-Ninja Play 320 SW Powerhouse Dr, Bend freespiritbend.pike13.com/courses/281859 $25
Ember’s Private Easter Egg Hunt
Sat., Apr. 4, 10am-5pm Ember’s Wildflower Bunny Rescue emberswildflower.org/ Must Register / Prices start at $35
Nordic Easter Egg Hunt
Sun. Apr. 5, 10am-1pm Mt. Bachelor mtbachelor.com/nordic/events/ nordic-easter-egg-hunt/ Trail or Season Pass Required
AWAKENING YOUR INNER HERO A
COLUMN TO HELP LOCALS LIVE A KINDER AND MORE COURAGEOUS LIFE
By Burt Gershater
Love and Democracy
Two sensitive, inseparable topics that are hardly ever discussed together. Today we will courageously address these foundational subjects for the betterment of us all.
I’m nervous.
Although my messages almost always focus on love in one way or another, and love can be one of the touchiest topics we can discuss, this message potentially adds an even touchier topic, politics.
Politics and Love.
You’d be nervous, too.
To be completely open, politics is not a topic I know much about. About eight years ago, I stopped watching the news on TV because it became too overwhelming and toxic for my sensitive nervous system. Just too much for me.
But I do know a thing or two about how divided our nation is these days, and healing divisions of all kinds is why I am here on Earth. We’ve all been given a job to do and this has been my primary assignment. Each one of us has been given assignments and we all have work to do. We’re rarely off duty in the hours we spend on this spectacular planet Earth.
First, we’ll talk about love.
We all know a thing or two about this amazing word.
And we all have tons more to learn in the allotted time we have left. We should never, ever stop learning about love. One of the problems with learning about love is that it has soooo many definitions and nuances that, in the end, what the heck is it?
Here are some key words related to this most important word in the world:
Be kind, caring, devoted. Cherish, be selfless, sacrifice. Love is often related to romance and sexual attraction. That is not the part of love we’re talking about today.
More unity and letting go of me so I can understand and appreciate you, especially when we discover our differences. Love is designed to overcome differences!
Love is way more than a feeling. It is a way to live, and reminds us that we are all connected, even when we aren’t feeling it. Our feelings cannot rule our love and when we allow it to, which we all do sometimes, love can fade quickly.
True loving is not easy.
It requires work, discipline and a willingness to not having to be right. Needing to be right is one of love’s biggest enemies.
I can disagree with you and still be respectful and kind.
Love is BIG.
And there is no room for hate under love’s umbrella.
Now, democracy.
We humans realized a long time ago that the ordinary citizen needs to have a part in our government’s decisions. Everyone is important! Societies around the world have operated in different democratic forms for thousands of years.
We the people…means everyone. Everyone is valued, respected and protected. There is no hate in We the people, zero, none. The ultimate purpose for ugly hate is that all of us will come to the realization that hate is NOT why we are here. It poisons and attempts to destroy love…which it can never do. Not as long as Love’s warriors are vigilantly practicing what we preach.
Love wins!
And when love wins, democracy thrives.
Democracy and love are built into our genetics. The Iroquois Great Law of Peace, dating back to 1142, established a sophisticated union that significantly influenced the framers of our U.S. Constitution. This reality was not acknowledged by our Senate until 1988!
It was Onondaga leader Canassatego who urged the 13 colonies to unite just as the Iroquois had. Ben Franklin printed his speech. While white settlers were fighting during the American Revolution for the right to govern themselves, thousands of Native Americans were already living under a system of government that embodied much of what the founders crafted during the Philadelphia gathering in 1776. Ben Franklin urged our founders to follow the Iroquois way.
The great seal of the United States is a bald eagle holding an olive branch and 13 arrows with a scroll in its beak reading E Pluribus Unum—out of many, one. Despite the Native American influence on America’s democracy, they were among the last Americans given the right to vote.
Love and Democracy are inseparable.
We all have a ton of work to do.
Let’s do it together.
—Burt Gershater is a counselor, leadership trainer, speaker and writer. He can be reached at info@burtgershater. com.
TAKE ME HOME
By Nathan Powers Engel Volkers Bend
The Buyer’s Market Playbook
From 2020 to 2022—what many now refer to as the “COVID-era” market—buying a home in Central Oregon often felt like a race against the clock. Multiple offers, homes selling in days, and buyers waiving contingencies became the norm. While there are still segments of today’s market that can feel that way—particularly well-priced homes under $600,000—the broader landscape tells a different story, one that has quietly created opportunities for those who know how to navigate it.
It’s also important to keep recent context in mind. The market in 2025 was relatively subdued, and overall price growth has remained fairly flat since the peak of 2022. That shift has helped reset expectations on both sides of the transaction. While it may not feel dramatically different at first glance, the balance of power has shifted. Homes are sitting on the market longer, sellers are becoming more flexible, and negotiations are once again part of the process (over 40% of single-family home sales included concessions in February). In many ways, this is what a more “normal” real estate market looks like—and for buyers, it presents a unique window of opportunity.
The first key to succeeding in today’s market is preparation. Serious buyers are entering the process with financing lined up, a clear understanding of their budget, and the ability to act quickly when the right home appears. While competition has eased compared to previous years, well-priced and well-presented homes are still attracting attention and often receiving offers within the first week. The difference now is that buyers have more freedom to act decisively on homes that linger,
without the same level of pressure.
Equally important is understanding leverage. In a market where homes are taking longer to sell, buyers are finding more room to negotiate—not just on price, but on terms. Seller-paid concessions, interest rate buydowns, repair credits, and flexible closing timelines are all back on the table. These factors can significantly impact the overall cost of a home—sometimes more than the purchase price itself.
Days on market has also become a valuable indicator. Properties that have been listed longer can signal motivated sellers, creating opportunities for more aggressive negotiations. That said, not every “stale” listing is a hidden gem. Successful buyers are working closely with experienced advisors to determine which opportunities are worth pursuing—and which are best left alone.
Patience is another advantage in today’s environment. Unlike the fastpaced market of the COVID years, buyers now have the ability to be more selective. This doesn’t mean waiting indefinitely, but rather approaching the process with a clear strategy—knowing when to act and when to walk away.
Ultimately, the buyers finding success right now are those treating the process like a long-term investment, not a short-term competition. They are informed, strategic, and willing to take advantage of the opportunities that come with a more balanced market. Markets are always evolving, and while no one can predict exactly where things will go next, one thing is clear: for buyers who are prepared and paying attention, this may be one of the most favorable environments we’ve seen in years.
ASTROLOGY
By Rob Brezsny
ARIES (March 21-April 19): Now is an excellent time to decide your favorite color is amaranth (a vivid red-violet), or sinopia (earthy red-orange), or viridian (cool blue-green, darker than jade). You might also conclude that your favorite aroma is agarwood (deep, smoky, resin-soaked wood), or heliotrope (cherry-almond vanilla), or petrichor (wet soil after a rain). I’m trying to tell you, Aries, that you’re primed to deeply enhance your detailed delight in smells, colors, tastes, feelings, physical sensations, types of wind, tones of voice, qualities of light—and everything else. Indulge in sensory and sensual pleasures!
TAURUS (April 20-May 20): My Taurus friend Elena keeps a “gratitude garden” in her backyard. When she feels grateful for a specific joy in her life, she writes it on biodegradable paper and buries it among her flowers, herbs, and vegetables. “I feed the earth with appreciation,” she says. “Returning the gift.” She feels this practice ensures that her garden and her life flourish. Her devoted attention to recognizing blessings attracts even more blessings. Her cultivated appreciation for beauty and abundance leads her to discover more beauty and abundance. Elena’s approach is pure Taurean genius. I invite you to create your own rituals for expressing your thankful love. Not just paying dutiful homage in your thoughts, but giving your appreciation weight, texture, and presence in the actual world.
ternal world to be more tranquil. That’s mostly a futile task that distracts from your more essential work. The secret to your happiness is to cultivate serenity within. How do you do that? One reliable way to shed tension is to continually place yourself in the presence of beauty. Nothing makes you relax better than being surrounded by elegance, grace, and loveliness. Now is a good time to recommit yourself to this key practice.
SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): In computer science, there’s a concept called “graceful degradation.” When a system encounters an error, it doesn’t crash completely. It loses some functionality but keeps running with what remains. According to my reading of the astrological omens, Scorpio, you’d be wise to acknowledge a graceful degradation like that. Something isn’t working as you had hoped and planned. A relationship? Project? Adventure? In classic Scorpio fashion, you’re tempted to burn it all down. But I encourage you to practice graceful degradation instead. Keep what still works and release only what’s actually broken. Not everything has to be all-or-nothing. You can lose some functionality and still run. You can be partially out of whack and still be valuable. PS: The awkwardness is temporary.
SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22Dec. 21): At your best and brightest, you are a hunter—though not the kind who stalks prey with weapons and trophies in mind. Your hunt is noble: the fervent pursuit of adventures that nourish your curiosity and the brave forays you make into unfamiliar territories where intriguing new truths shimmer. And now, as the world drifts deeper into chaos, you are called to respond with even more exploratory audacity. I invite you to further refine your hunter’s craft. Lift it up to an even higher, more luminous form of seeking.
GEMINI (May 21-June 20): Many of us periodically slip into the daydream that everything would finally feel right if only our lives were somehow different. If we’re single, maybe we imagine we ought to be partnered; if we’re partnered, we wish our beloved would change, or we secretly wonder about someone else entirely. That’s the snag. The blessing is this: In the days ahead, you’re likely to discover a surprising ease with your life exactly as it is, and feel a genuine, grounded peace. Congratulations in advance!
CANCER (June 21-July 22): A cautious voice in your head murmurs: “Proceed carefully. Don’t be overly impressed with your own beauty. Stick with dependable methods. Live up to expectations and avoid explorations into the unknown.” Your bold genius interrupts: “Tell that fussy, boring voice to shut up. The truth is that you have earned the right to be an inquisitive wanderer, an ingenious lover, a fanciful storyteller, and a laughing experimenter.”
LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): In medieval European gardens, there was a tradition of creating “pleasure labyrinths.” They were walking meditations that spiraled inward to a center, then back out again. There were no decisions and no wrong turns, just the relaxing, meditative journey itself. I think you need and deserve a metaphorical pleasure labyrinth right now, Leo. You’ve been treating every choice as a high-stakes dilemma and every path as potentially problematic. But what if the current phase isn’t about making the perfect decision? Maybe it’s about trusting that the path you’re on will take you where you need to go, even if it meanders. By cosmic decree, you are excused from second-guessing every turn.
VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Your eye for imperfection is a gift until it becomes the lens through which you see everything. The critical faculty that drives you to refine and enhance may also shunt you into a dead end of never-being-good-enough, where impossible standards immobilize you. In the coming weeks, dear Virgo, I beg you to use your vaunted discernment primarily in the service of growth and pleasure rather than constraint. Be excited by buoyant analysis that empowers constructive change. Homework: For every flaw you identify, identify two things that are working well. You won’t ignore what needs attention, but instead will compensate for the excessive criticism that sometimes grips your inner critic.
LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): You Libras shouldn’t expend excessive effort trying to force the ex-
CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): Capricorn meditation teacher Wes Nisker guided his students to relax the relentless mental static that muddled their awareness. But he also understood that excessive striving can sabotage the peace we’re seeking. I invoke his influence now to help you release some of the jittery goal-obsession you’ve been gripped by. Nisker and I offer you permission to temporarily suspend the potentially exhausting drive to constantly be better and more accomplished. Instead, just for now, simply be your authentic self. Loosen your high-strung grip on self-improvement and allow yourself the radical luxury of purposelessness.
AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Here’s a danger you Aquarians are sometimes prey to: spending so much energy fixing the big picture that you neglect what’s up close and personal. You may get so involved in rearranging systems that immediate concerns get less than your best attention. I hope you won’t do that in the coming weeks. Your aptitude for overarching objectivity is a gift because it enables you to recognize patterns others can’t detect. But it may also divert you from the messy, intricate intimacy that gritty transformation requires. Your assignment: Eagerly attend to the details, which I bet will be more interesting than you imagine.
PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): In horticulture, “hardening off” is the process of gradually exposing seedlings started indoors to outdoor conditions before transplanting them. Too much exposure too fast will shock them; no exposure at all will leave them unprepared. Let’s invoke this as a useful metaphor for you. I believe you are being hardened off, Pisces. Life is making small, increasing demands on your tender self. Though this may sometimes feel uncomfortable, I assure you that it’s preparation, not cruelty. You’re being readied for a shift from protected space to open ground. My advice is twofold: 1. Don’t retreat back into the ultra-safe greenhouse. 2. Don’t let yourself be thrown into full exposure all at once.
By Brendan Emmett Quigley
Pearl’s Puzzle
Puzzle for the week of March 30, 2026 Difficulty Level:
Fill in every row, column, and 3x3 box with each of the letters
exactly once.
The highlighted letters read left to right and top to bottom will complete the quote: “This being Easter Sunday, we will ask Mrs. Lewis to come forward and the altar.
Church Bulletin
Answer for the week of March 23, 2026
ANSWER TO LAST WEEK'S PUZZLES
“The trouble with being punctual is that nobody's there to appreciate it.” — Franklin P. Jones
