the Source Best of Central Oregon 2026

AUGUST 13, 2026 / BEND’S INDEPENDENT VOICE - NOW DAILY AT WWW.BENDSOURCE.COM 2

DOCTORS BYRON MAAS TABITHA JOHNSTON LAUREN THORSON COURTNEY MCLAUGHLAN KELLI SMITH MICHAELA TOSTBERG JANETTE WELLS

CARING FOR YOUR PETS 7 DAYS URGENT CARE

BENDVETERINARYCLINIC.COM

360 NE QUIMBY AVE BEND, OR 97701 541-382-0741 3197 N HWY 97 STE A-1 BEND, OR 97701 541-388-0262

3 VOLUME 30 ISSUE 33 / AUGUST 13, 2026 / THE SOURCE

y Health ures t n e v d A await!

AUGUST 13, 2026 / BEND’S INDEPENDENT VOICE - NOW DAILY AT WWW.BENDSOURCE.COM

4

Thank You, Central Oregon! WE ARE HONORED TO BE VOTED

BEST STAYCATION

LOCALS-ONLY PLAYCATION OFFER ENJOY A STAY STARTING AT $170 INCLUDING A $50 RESORT CREDIT As a thank you for your support, we’re inviting our Central Oregon locals to enjoy rates starting at $170, including a $50 resort credit. Relax by the pool, indulge in a spa treatment, savor a memorable meal, or simply slow down beneath the pines. Your next getaway is closer than you think.

BOOK YOUR GETAWAY AT SUNRIVERRESORT.COM

5

VOLUME 30 ISSUE 33 / AUGUST 13, 2026 / THE SOURCE

AUGUST 13, 2026 / BEND’S INDEPENDENT VOICE - NOW DAILY AT WWW.BENDSOURCE.COM 6

EDITOR’S NOTE: INDEPENDENT. DAILY. LOCAL the Source 704 NW Georgia Ave., Bend, OR 97703 t. 541-383-0800 bendsource.com - info@bendsource.com

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

Our Best of Central Oregon issue is a celebration of the passion local business owners pour into their work and the customers who appreciate them. It’s fun to interview winners, because they’re ecstatic. Winners proudly hold the props we hand them so we can take their photo. A common theme I found among winners is that they often talk about employees as family. While there are a lot of repeat winners, there are some new break-out stars to celebrate this year. In other news, a new restaurant is about to open in downtown Bend and Donna Britt found a new food cart that she says is worth checking out! We also have advice from a pro on how to capture the night sky in a snapshot and the best way to enjoy the Perseid meteor shower that’s peaking this week. —Managing Editor Nic Moye

LIGHTMETER: PRESENTED BY HARVEST MOON WOODWORKS

7

Natalia Buchmiller

EDITOR IN CHIEF Nicole Vulcan–nicole@bendsource.com

Purchase discount gift certificates online at

MANAGING EDITOR Nic Moye–editor@bendsource.com

perks.bendsource.com

REPORTER / CALENDAR EDITOR Dallas Finn Calvert–calendar@bendsource.com, reporter@bendsource.com

EMPOWER LOCAL Become a aWeekly

COPY EDITOR Richard Sitts

member and directly contribute to the sustainability of high-quality journalism in our community.

FREELANCERS Jared Rasic, Donna Britt, Abby Francis, Kelly Clark, Adriana Marino, Wally Hofmann, Julie Furnas, Dr. Jane Guyn SYNDICATED CONTENT Rob Brezsney, Brendan Emmett Quigley, Jen Sorensen, Pearl Stark, Tom Tomorrow, Matt Wuerker PRODUCTION MANAGER / ART DIRECTOR Jennifer Galler–production@bendsource.com GRAPHIC DESIGNER Adrian Galler–design@bendsource.com SALES DIRECTOR Ashley Sarvis ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Ban Tat, Chad Barnes advertise@bendsource.com TECHNOLOGY OFFICER Megan Burton–megan@layitoutevents.com

Cloudy skies over Smith Rock make for a Central Oregon scene that is hard to beat. We want to share your photo! Email calendar@bendsource.com or tag @sourceweekly on Instagram for a chance to be featured.

DISTRIBUTION MANAGER Sean Switzer CONTROLLER Angela Switzer–angela@bendsource.com PUBLISHER Aaron Switzer–aaron@bendsource.com WILD CARD Paul Butler NATIONAL ADVERTISING Alternative Weekly Network 916-551-1770

LAY IT OUT FOUNDATION FEATURES AND INVESTIGATIVE REPORTER Peter Madsen–peter@layitoutfoundation.org REPORTER Clayton Franke–clayton@layitoutfoundation.org

Sales Deadline: 5pm, Mondays Editorial Deadline: 5pm, Mondays Calendar Deadline: 5pm, Fridays Deadlines may shift for special/holiday issues.

NEVER MISS AN ISSUE! Become a subscriber to the Source today. For only $175 per year, receive every issue delivered to your doorstep. Subscribe today: info@bendsource.com

The Source is published every Thursday. The contents of this issue are copyright ©2026 by Lay It Out Inc., and may not be reprinted in part or in whole without consent from the publisher. Cartoons printed in the Source are copyright ©2026 by their respective artists. The Source is available free of charge at over 350 locations, limited to one copy per reader. Additional copies of the Source may be purchased for $1.00, payable in advance. Anyone removing papers in bulk will be prosecuted on theft charges to the fullest extent of the law. Writers’ Guidelines: We accept unsolicited manuscripts and comics. Visit our ‘Contact Us’ webpage for freelancer guidelines.

HARVESTMOONWOODWORKS.COM

CUSTOM. CABINETS.

BECOME A MONTHLY SUNSTAINER The Lay It Out Foundation supports the Source Weekly to help deliver investigative reporting for everyone in Central Oregon.

support local today

VOLUME 30 ISSUE 33 / AUGUST 13, 2026 / THE SOURCE

On the Cover: Illustration collaboration between Jennifer and Adrian Galler.

SUPPORT LOCAL

OPINION Ron Wyden, Spitting into the Wind AUGUST 13, 2026 / BEND’S INDEPENDENT VOICE - NOW DAILY AT WWW.BENDSOURCE.COM

8

S JUST 10 MINUTES FROM JUST 10 MINUTES FROM DOWNTOWN BEND! DOWNTOWN BEND!

floats for floats for the month of the month of September! September!

Dr. Dr. Cochran Cochran •• Dr. Westbrook Dr. Dr. Cuthbert Cuthbert • Dr. Nicol 541.389.1540 | tumaloanimalhospital.com | 541.389.1540 | tumaloanimalhospital.com |

@ @TumaloAnimalHospital TumaloAnimalHospital

en. Ron Wyden (D-OR) was in Bend this week, holding a press conference with local elected officials to express dismay over the federal government’s handling of fire management and public forests. Considering that the smoke map of the greater Northwest is currently glowing bright red due to all of the fires in the region, it’s clear that fire prevention and management efforts need all the attention they can get, this year and in future years. But that’s hardly Wyden’s only headache at the moment. He’s also pitted himself against a number of big banks, alleging in a new report that the banks looked the other way for years while Jeffrey Epstein moved money related to his rampant human trafficking of young women and girls. According to the Aug. 4 report prepared by Wyden’s office, big banks, including JPMorgan Chase, Deutsche Bank and Bank of America, “looked the other way as Epstein withdrew millions of dollars in cash with no clear business purpose and was party to thousands of suspicious wire transfers worth more than $1 billion.” The report alleges that the banks failed to appropriately investigate the more than $170 million in payments made from billionaire Leon Black to Epstein — even, in the case of JPMorgan Chase, when internal compliance staff issued warnings about the payments. Black was “overwhelmingly the largest source of funding for Epstein’s sex trafficking,” according to the report. Then, the report alleges, the bank waited years to report the activity to financial regulators. Banks are required

to file reports of suspicious activity within 30 days of initial detection. What’s more, Wyden sat for an interview with 60 Minutes back in March to share the findings of his report. The interview was killed by CBS leadership, Wyden’s report alleges. This week, Wyden went public with his own report, which was covered by numerous news outlets around the country. Suppressing a story like this was not going to keep the matter under wraps for long. Getting Congress to act on the banking matter at the present moment, with a Republican majority that lives in fear of President Trump, doesn’t seem like it’s going to happen. But should the midterm elections change the balance of the Senate, Wyden may very well find himself chair of the U.S. Senate Committee on Finance (on which he currently sits as Ranking Member), allowing him to initiate a full investigation. Democrats need to turn four Senate seats from red to blue to gain control of the chamber, according to NPR, and it’s hardly a foregone conclusion that they’ll do so. Voting out members of the U.S. Senate in swing states is one way to see the investigation into big banks’ complicity in the Epstein case actually move forward. But there’s also an option that turns the personal, political: If the misdeeds of the Great Recession didn’t already prompt the average person to move to local banks and credit unions, perhaps the fact that some of those same banks covered up for a wealthy predator finally will. Think globally, act locally.

O

Letters

HAVE SOMETHING TO SAY? Send your thoughts to editor@bendsource.com.

DEVELOP THE CANALS!

As an alternative to the entire Bend population trying to access reduced parking and limited areas of the Deschutes in the downtown area, how about the canals! This water is already flowing through the growing eastside population; we could use it. This would involve some collaboration, like the Bend whitewater park. It would be possible! — Tim Baker

DEMAND LAWMAKERS ACT NOW!

As recent summers have made clear, wildland megafires are no longer a regional anomaly, but have become a global hazard. NASA reports that, due to human-induced climate change, “Extreme wildfire activity has more than doubled worldwide.” Hotter temperatures evaporate soil moisture and dry vegetation, making it more likely to burn. According to physicist Phillip B. Duffy, “What would have been a fire easily extinguished now just grows very quickly and becomes out of control.” More intense wildfires are just one symptom of a much larger problem. A study in the journal Science concludes that global soil moisture is in “permanent” decline because of our warming climate. The drying of continents, driven by increased heat and evaporation, has been so pronounced that the transfer of water to the oceans has altered the distribution of our planet’s mass and affected Earth’s rotation on its axis. As continents dry and water resources are polluted and overused, researchers warn that the world has entered an era of “global water bankruptcy,” in which critical water systems can no longer realistically recover to their former state. This includes the largest groundwater reserve in the United States, the Ogallala Aquifer, which supports Great Plains agriculture. As evidenced by the huge wildfires in Oregon, deadly European heatwaves, and rapidly expanding “mega-drying” regions in South Asia, the atmosphere has no borders. As guests of this world, we must insist that our legislators enact policies to cut emissions, conserve water and protect Earth’s life‑support systems on which we all depend. —Terry Hansen

RESIGNATION OF OSU-CASCADES DEAN

OSU-Cascades recently announced that Sherman Bloomer is no longer employed as dean of the university. The school said it would have no further comment. According to The Bend Bulletin, Bloomer resigned. He was quoted as saying his decision was financial and based on his need to access his retirement accounts. However, it is widely known that Bloomer’s departure was related to sexual misconduct involving students, which raises many questions. Why was Bloomer allowed to retire instead of being fired? Given the nature of the allegations against Bloomer, why have details been withheld from the public? It appears that the university’s actions are intended to protect their reputation as well as Bloomer’s instead of serving the public interest. Oregon universities received more the $1 billion in state funding for the years 2025-2027. Publicly funded entities like OSU-Cascades should be required to operate with more transparency than what OSU has shown. Parents entrust the safety of their college students to the administrators, faculty, and staff of the schools their kids attend. Sexual misconduct by a university leader should be made public for the benefit of current and prospective students and their families as well as the local community that supports the school. It is time for our colleges and universities to be held accountable and be required to be more forthcoming about issues that impact our local community like the firing of Sherman Bloomer or have their public funding reconsidered. — Terry Scalzo

Letter of the Week: We support your demand for transparency, Terry! As letter of the week, you can stop by the Source for a gift card to Palate coffee. —Managing Editor Nic Moye

9 VOLUME 30 ISSUE 33 / AUGUST 13, 2026 / THE SOURCE

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!

Government Roundup By Nic Moye Bend City Council Business Meeting Aug. 5

AUGUST 13, 2026 / BEND’S INDEPENDENT VOICE - NOW DAILY AT WWW.BENDSOURCE.COM

10

Affordable Homes The Bend City Council approved $350,000 in Affordable Housing Funds to help eight local families purchase homes through Bend-Redmond Habitat for Humanity. The money will go toward a down payment. Two of the households earn below 50% of the area median income, while the others average 60% AMI. “For many buyers, the challenge is not making a responsible monthly housing payment. It is qualifying for a mortgage large enough to cover the cost of a home in Bend,” Scott Nordquist, VP of Resource Development for Bend-Redmond Habitat for Humanity, said in a news release. The homes are built on formerly Cityowned land near NE Bear Creek Road and 15th Street. Total monthly housing costs will be capped at 30% of each buyer’s gross monthly income. Habitat home buyers complete an education and financial course before a purchase. One of the homeowners, Jessica, works at Shepard’s House and is raising two children. “Homeownership has always represented stability to me, not luxury,” she said. If a homeowner sells one of the homes in the future, it will be made available to another income-qualified buyer. Bend-Redmond Habitat received more than 300 applications for the eight homes. The City Council also approved $650,000 to support construction costs of 38 affordable homes at Thistle and Nest’s Woodhaven Estates Phases 5 and 6. Ten units will be for families earning between 31-50% AMI and 28 units are for households earning between 51-80% AMI. Bend Code 9.40, adopted in June 2006, establishes a fee dedicated to providing funding for affordable housing development in Bend. Since implementation, this funding has contributed to more than 900 affordable housing units.

Reed Market RR Bridge Update The Bend City Council approved a design-build contract with Stacy and Witbeck, Inc. for the Reed Market Bridge Project in an amount not to exceed $5,231,770. Last year, the City was awarded a grant of up to $32,321,299 from the Federal Railroad Administration’s Railroad Crossing Elimination program for a bridge routing traffic over the Burlington Northern-Santa Fe railroad on Reed Market. The grant agreement was signed July 9. The City will provide $13,751,985 from the 2020 General Obligation Bond funds. Construction is expected to begin in mid-to-late 2027 and be completed by mid-2029.

NEWS

Second Suspect in Alleged Awbrey Glen Home Invasion Named Jacob Teeter was apprehended in Prineville on Aug. 4 By Peter Madsen Redfin

This Awbrey Glen home, which is listed on Redfin for $1.5 million, is the site of an alleged burglary that resulted in one of the intruders falling from the second-floor balcony, later dying of his injuries. An accomplice linked to the incident was apprehended in Prineville on Aug. 4.

A

n alleged home invasion in Bend that turned deadly last March went months without an update from law enforcement. That changed on Aug. 4 when authorities arrested Jacob Charles Teeter in Prineville. Police suspect Teeter was an accomplice involved in the fatal event in the Awbrey Glen neighborhood on March 12. The Bend Police Department has characterized the incident as a home invasion in which another Bend resident and suspected intruder, Zachary Douglas, died. Teeter, 37, was arrested on suspicion of first-degree burglary, fourth-degree assault, tampering with physical evidence and criminal conspiracy. He was lodged at the Deschutes County Jail the same day. After Teeter’s arrest, detectives executed a search warrant at Teeter’s home in the 60900 block of Targee Drive in Bend, according to court records. Teeter is facing two felonies and two misdemeanors for allegedly conspiring with Douglas to unlawfully and knowingly enter or stay in a dwelling with the intent to commit assault (whether caused, threatened or attempted) and burglary in the first degree of an occupied home. The charges include assault and tampering with physical evidence — which allegedly includes the concealment and removal of a vehicle, a firearm and gloves. In an incident they say was targeted, detectives with Bend PD have said a key part of their investigation is looking into the relationship between the suspect and the victim. Teeter has retained attorney Erick Ward after having qualified for and declined a public defender, according to court records. The defendant’s security was set at $100,000 — 10% of which is required to post bail. As of Aug. 10, Teeter was not listed as an inmate at the Deschutes County Adult Jail. The March 12 alleged home invasion struck many in Bend as unexpected, given that its residence is in Awbrey Glen, the sleepy, gated community on Awbrey Butte’s north side. Homes in Awbrey Glen, bordering an 18-hole golf course, are often priced above $1 million, according to listings on Zillow.

Awbrey Glen’s streets are gated from public access, yet homes are accessible by a number of bike paths or walking through the nearby links, many of which skirt residents’ unfenced yards. Zachary Douglas / Facebook As the Source reported on March 16, Zachary Douglas, 36 at the time and a Bend resident, allegedly tried to break into the home around 11:45 pm. That’s when a resident, who was home, reported the break-in to 911. The resident, whom The Source isn’t naming because they haven’t been accused of a crime, allegedly struggled Zachary Douglas, who died with Teeter and Douglas; shortly after an alleged home invasion on March 12, added this the latter of whom sub- image to his Facebook profile on sequently fell from the Aug. 11, 2025. home’s balcony and fled on foot into the links. Responding police officers searched the area. They found Douglas lying on the golf course owned by Awbrey Glen Golf Club with life-threatening injuries. Police administered emergency medical care, but Douglas died at the scene, according to Bend PD. Bend PD detectives are investigating the intent of the invasion and whether the two parties knew each other. Detectives have yet to receive autopsy results. Bend PD Communications Manager Sheila Miller told the Source in March that details about any other weapons or burglary tools found on Douglas were not available, owing to the open investigation. Bend Fire and Rescue transported the resident with non-life threatening to St. Charles Bend, where the victim was treated and released. In July 2015, Douglas pleaded guilty to driving while intoxicated, according to court records. Later in October of that year, charges of speeding and criminal driving while suspended were dismissed.

NEWS

Pilot Who Crashed Plane Had Been Indicted for Five Counts of Invasion of Personal Privacy By Peter Madsen

T

he plane crash west of Tumalo on Aug. 4 appears to have been a suicide, according to law enforcement officials. Authorities have identified Bend resident Steven Nicholas Charlton, 48, as the pilot of the 2025 Cirrus SR22T, which he took airborne at 1:34 pm from the Bend Municipal Airport, five hours before the crash law enforcement officials believe was intentional. No other injuries or property damage were reported, nor did the crash ignite a fire. Charlton was a licensed commercial pilot and certified flight instructor, according to Federal Aviation Administration records. It’s not immediately clear whether Charlton was authorized to fly the fixed-wing, single-propellor plane. Valued around $1 million, a Cirrus SR22T can fit four passengers, including the pilot. During the five-hour flight, Charlton chartered an erratic course across 712 miles, according to FlightAware flight maps. He flew as far north as Cove Palisades State Park, near Culver, where he circled several times before looping several spots between Redmond and the Bend Airport. Halfway through the flight, after making wide loops above the lower section of the Phil’s Trail Complex, Charlton made roughly 70 tight, concentric, mile-wide circles in the same spot about 5,000 feet above Bull Flat. The area west of the Tumalo Reservoir was a once-popular access point to the now-closed Bull Springs Skyline Forest, which has been owned since 2015 by a holding company founded by a Chinese billionaire. Charlton crashed the plane on private property at 6:46 pm. Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to the scene. The FAA and the National Transportation Safety Board began their investigation at the crash site on Aug. 5. Neither the public nor media is allowed near the crash site.

During the flight, multiple agencies came together with a precautionary response concerned with public safety, according to DCSO. These agencies included the Central Oregon Emergency Response Team, the FBI, FAA, Bend Fire & Rescue, Central Oregon Irrigation District and the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office. The FBI was also in contact with the Air Force base in Klamath Falls. Law enforcement tried to communicate with Charlton via cell phone, but he only wanted to speak with family members, DCSO Spokesperson Jason Carr told the Source. Deschutes County Sheriff deputies had arrested Charlton just days before, on July 29. He was arraigned later the following day in Deschutes County Circuit Court on five counts of first-degree invasion of personal privacy. Court documents show he was accused of filming two minors in a state of nudity in a place where they reasonably expected privacy. The incidents allegedly occurred in 2025, between June 1 and Sept. 30. After posting a $10,000 security, Charlton was conditionally released from Deschutes County Adult Jail on Aug. 3, the day before the crash. As release conditions, Charlton was barred from possessing video recording equipment and prohibited from contacting the two victims. He was also barred from contacting Cari Ann Charlton, who is listed with Steven as an owner of a residence on NE Neff Road, according to property records. Cari Ann Charlton was also one of two subpoenaed witnesses at an Aug. 4 grand jury indictment in circuit court. Sometime that same day, Charlton’s family members called 911 because they worried he would harm himself, due to what he was communicating to them. Charlton refused to speak with a sheriff deputy and a negotiator from the Central Oregon Emergency Response Team when they contacted Charlton in the air on Aug. 4. The day after the crash, Deputy District Attorney Matthew Nelson DCSO filed a dismissal of Charlton’s indictment because he’d died. Charlton’s grand jury arraignment in Deschutes County Circuit Court had been scheduled for Aug. 6. It’s not clear whether Charlton was authorized to operate the Cirrus SR22T, which according to the FAA is registered to So Fly Aviation, a limited liability corporation and fractional owner with a residential address in Eugene. The plane was certified with the FAA on March 3, 2025. According to Lane County property records, the home is held by Jude Karanam Living Trust. On Aug. 6, Aishiki Nag, a reporter working in collaboration with the Source, spoke with Rebecca Jude at the Eugene residence. Jude said she The site west of Tumalo where law enforcement authorities say Bend pilot Steven and her husband sold the plane about Nicholas Charlton intentionally crashed on Aug. 4. a month ago through a broker. They don’t personally know Charlton, they

Steven Charlton/Facebook

A flight photo Steven Charlton posted to his Facebook page June 13.

said. They’re aware of the plane crash, yet didn’t know whether the plane was stolen from the new owners. Flight logs show that the Cirrus airplane had been regularly used in intrastate flights originating from the Bend airport, including flights in July and June to the Oregon Coast. On June 13, Charlton posted a photo taken from the cockpit of a plane resembling that of a Cirrus SR22T; the Siuslaw Bridge is visible beyond the dash. Flight logs show the plane traveling from the Bend airport, in a relatively straight line, to Florence and then the Newport municipal airports before returning to Bend the same day. DCSO said Charlton regularly piloted chartered flights, yet it’s not immediately known for whom. The Bend Municipal Airport is managed by the City of Bend. Citing the open investigation, City of Bend officials declined to answer the Source’s questions regarding security measures at the airport. The facility accommodates about 300 parked aircraft at any time. Since Charlton died in an apparent suicide, the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office won’t further investigate whether the pilot’s use of the plane constituted a crime. “We don’t have any indication that Charlton stole the plane,” said DCSO Spokesman Jason Carr. He also said it’s not immediately known whether there was a breakdown of any FAA or airport protocol leading up to Charlton’s Aug. 4 flight. The NTSB is requesting information from anyone who witnessed the flight or the crash, or who may have spoken with or seen Charlton at the Bend Airport. Witnesses can email: witness@ntsb.gov. News tips can be emailed to: peter@layitoutfoundation.org. —Aishiki Nag, a reporting intern with the Eugene Weekly, contributed reporting. If you or anyone you know is experiencing suicidal thoughts, call The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 800-273-TALK (8255).

VOLUME 30 ISSUE 33 / AUGUST 13, 2026 / THE SOURCE

Pilot and Bend resident Steven Charlton was accused of filming two minors without consent

11

AUGUST 13, 2026 / BEND’S INDEPENDENT VOICE - NOW DAILY AT WWW.BENDSOURCE.COM 12

RN

A

Amid fires and water issues at Indian Head Casino, General Duffy’s steps up to support Warm Springs By Nic Moye

REDMOND PICKS

13

8/14 – 8/18 FRIDAY

8/14

ABBAcadabra

s fire crews continue getour community — setting the ting the upper hand with highest standards in Central the Bench Fire, burning 4 Oregon of goodwill, leadermiles southwest of the Warm ship and humanity. To stand Springs community, it will be hand in hand with Indian some time before the reserHead Casino and the Confedvation is fully restored. The erate Tribes of Warm Springs fire destroyed six homes and to host this benefit confive outbuildings. The rescert raising money for those ervation is also dealing with ABBAcadabra will perform at General Duffy’s Waterhole effected by the wildfires is a a water shortage which was Aug. 21 with a portion of the proceeds going to the Warm true honor.” Springs Wildfire Recovery Fund. exacerbated by a 6-inch crack As of Thursday, the Warm in a water main that supplies Springs recovery fund had water to facilities on the reservation, including Indian raised $282,991. Thrive Central Oregon connects Head Casino. people with resources. About 70% of the households Jason Gallagher, marketing director for the casino, working with Thrive have income under 30% of the says, “Due to the devastating wildfires affecting Warm Area Median Income. Springs and surrounding communities, Indian Head ABBAcadabra is a high energy band paying tribute Casino made the difficult decision to cancel our sum- to the 1970s Swedish pop group, ABBA, which was one mer concert series. While it was not a decision we took of the most commercially successful musical groups lightly, the safety and well-being of our guests, team in history. members, and community had to come first.” “In the midst of these challenges, we’ve also witOne casino concert has been moved to Gener- nessed the strength and generosity that define Central al Duffy’s Waterhole in Redmond. ABBAcadabra: The Oregon,” Gallagher says. “This is more than a concert. Ultimate ABBA Tribute will perform Aug. 21 with a It’s our community doing what it does best: showing portion of the proceeds going to the Warm Springs up for one another when it matters most.” Wildfire Recovery Fund and Thrive Central Oregon. General Duffy’s owner Tanner Robertson told the ABBA Wildfire Recovery Benefit Concert Fri, Aug 21, 8:30pm Source, “We are inspired most by the fearlessly generGeneral Duffy’s Waterhole ous and beautiful heart and spirit of the Confederated 404 SW Forest Ave, Redmond Tribes of Warm Springs to help people. Their immedietix.com/ticket/p/36536114/abbacadabra-the-ultimate-abate response to neighbors in need is always: ‘How can ba-tribute-redmond-general-duffys-waterhole?gclid= $27.65 we help?’ Their compassion, generosity and commitment to service make them the ultimate champion of

Unsplash, Yeh Xintong

ALL-YOU-CAN-EAT SPAGHETTI DINNER PASTA FOR A PURPOSE

Spaghetti with meat sauce, fresh salad, garlic bread and dessert included. Auction & 50/50 raffle tickets available at the door or in advance. Full plates, happy hearts and stronger community! All proceeds support Redmond Masonic Lodge. 6-8pm at Redmond Masonic Lodge, 627 SW Seventh St., Redmond. $20 per person $40 family price (2 adults and children).

TUESDAY

8/18

REDMOND COOKBOOK CLUB COMMUNITY COOKING

Join local home chefs for a potluck cooked from a different cookbook each month. Meet great people, enjoy delicious wine and share fabulous food! Choose a recipe at the monthly happy hour on the second Tuesdays, then bring a dish to the dinner party every third Tuesday. 6-8pm at Arome, 432 SW 6th St., Redmond. $15.

VOLUME 30 ISSUE 33 / AUGUST 13, 2026 / THE SOURCE

REDMOND NEWS

Wildfire Recovery Benefit Concert in Redmond

FEATURE

AUGUST 13, 2026 / BEND’S INDEPENDENT VOICE - NOW DAILY AT WWW.BENDSOURCE.COM

14

Financial Spelunking The Oregon Journalism Project provides a new metric for analyzing local government finances. We used it to track spending in Bend, Redmond and Deschutes County. By Peter Madsen

he price of everything has gotten more expensive over the past decade. That scene from “Arrested Development,” where clueless matriarch Lucille Bluth guesses the cost of a frozen banana at $10, is, sadly, more tragic than funny the closer inflation inches us toward that outlandish price tag. Adjusted for inflation, a $10 frozen banana in 2003 (when that Season-One episode aired) is worth $18.15 today, according to an online Consumer Price Index Inflation calculator. See? Financial analysis can be fun! Dollars spent by local governments are no less affected by inflation. The Oregon Journalism Project, a nonprofit investigative newsroom, wondered how inflation, coupled with population growth, has affected local governments’ spending since 2016. The Source is one of the newsroom partners throughout the state to participate in the project, which uses a government’s Statement of Activities — a total metric that differs from simply looking at budget figures — to track how local governments’ spending has followed population growth and inflation. We elected to sift through the datasets pertaining to Deschutes County and the cities of Redmond and Bend, aiming to help us understand how much those governments spend, and how that has tracked with inflation over time.

T

The idea: to help people better understand how their governments spend taxpayer dollars, and whether those local governments are getting better — or worse — at the job from year to year. Armed with the data analyzed by the Oregon Journalism Project, we called up each respective government’s chief financial officer to sift through the figures.

Notes on the methodology Since the number-crunching would otherwise be a Herculean undertaking, OJP tasked Claude AI to parse each local government’s spending, as reflected in each government’s Statement of Activities, which each jurisdiction includes in its Annual Comprehensive Financial Report. The Statement of Activities is the single audited number that represents what the jurisdiction actually spent in that fiscal year — no budget versus actual, no fund-by-fund interfund double-counting. OJP chose the Statement of Activities total because it is the only number consistently published across every level of government (state, county, city or school district, for example) under the same Governmental Accounting Standards Board, making cross-jurisdiction comparisons possible. Google Gemini - US Census Bureau

In visiting the Oregon Journalism Project’s online Civic Ledger, folks can explore and compare spending activities of seven Oregon cities, five Oregon counties, two school districts and Oregon and Washington at the state level. All real-dollar figures are deflated using the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics’ Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers in the West Region, not seasonally-adjusted June values. June aligns with most jurisdictions’ fiscal-year end, June 30. OJP indexed each fiscal year’s nominal spending to 2025 dollars by multiplying by the 2025 Consumer Price Index with that of any respective year. That means the inflation benchmark on the index page is the Compound Annual Growth Rate of the Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers over the same FY 2016 – FY 2025 period. Because the Consumer Price Index of Urban West Consumers is a single regional index, the inflation benchmark is the same for every jurisdiction. Indexed to 100 in Fiscal Year 2026, the population has already been divided out, which allows a measurement against a single inflation benchmark. That allows for a “banana-to-banana” comparison. OK! Let’s dive into the data.

Deschutes County: Climbing revenues and expenditures The ledgers of the third-fastest-growing county in the state reflect climbing revenues and expenditures, as its population has grown from 170,740 in 2016 to 212,141 in 2025 — a growth rate of 24%. Deschutes County Chief Financial Officer Robert Tintle agrees that the County’s Statement of Activities makes all government organizations comparable; each respective figure represents a full-accrual basis of accounting. Statements of Activities, Tintle explains, include expenditures such as pensions, cost depreciation and other accumulated costs that a government typically doesn’t pay on a year-to-year basis. “I noticed that Deschutes County is typically lower than the inflation rate, which I think the County has always been,” Tintle said. “The Board of County Commissioners has always been prudent as far as its expenditure growth.” When an entity clocks in below the inflation rate, it means they are spending less than they take in, even adjusted for inflation.

FEATURE

City of Redmond: Conservative approach to taxes and fees When reached by the Source via conference call, Redmond Financial Director James Wood and the City’s Deputy City Manager Jason Neff were giddy to discuss Redmond’s financials, using the Statement of Activities as a fiscal North Star. “This is probably the best methodology that we’ve seen,” Wood said. “This gives us an apples-to-apples perspective.” Wood’s first impression of the data was one that confirmed his and Neff’s understanding that the City of Redmond was below the inflation rate. The pair cited the Redmond City Council’s conservativeness as reflected in its approach to fees and taxes. Neff pointed out that rates on utilities like water and sewer have remained around 2.3%, well below the 3.6% Consumer Price Index across the 10-year span. “We run a balanced budget,” Neff said. “Annually, we really go out of our way to make sure that expenses don’t exceed revenues — or we try to stay neutral. By virtue of that, we should be running below the inflation and population growth rate. We’ve got to live within our means.” Looking at the Covid-19 pandemic years, Wood noted that inflation peaked at 9%; that impacts local governments just like individual consumers. In the interest of adding more nuance to the City of Redmond’s financial reading, Wood noted a minor adjustment for the Redmond Municipal Airport. As Wood indicated, airport enplanements — a metric indicating the number of times a passenger steps onto a plane — have increased by 118% over the last 10 years. That doesn’t even consider inflationary increases, he said; OJP’s Civic Ledger analysis implies only an 82.72% growth in expense would be reasonable for the airport during that time. In other words, an analysis like this is difficult when you’re analyzing an area — or a local government — that’s experiencing the rapid growth that Central Oregon is.

Civic Ledger PC- OJP

15 VOLUME 30 ISSUE 33 / AUGUST 13, 2026 / THE SOURCE

Tintle noted how the County’s expenditures increased between Fiscal Years 2019 and 2021 — during the Covid-19 pandemic — jumping from 88.1 to 110.9 points since being indexed at 100 in 2016. That’s when a lot of cash came in from the state and the federal government, such as the American Rescue Plan Act fund, a $1.9 trillion federal economic stimulus package. A third of that fund included Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds. Much of that cash went toward health services. Concurrently, health and welfare rang in at $62.69 million in FY 2021, about $13 million more than the two preceding years. Road funding was also a large factor during this period: Since 2016, annual County road spending hovered around $18 million each year through FY 2020. In the following year, spending kicked up to $25.5 million and $22 million in 2022. There was a $15 million dip in road spending in 2023 before ramping up to about $35 million in 2024 and 2025, respectively. “If we have more funding in those two areas, then we’re going to have more expenditures,” Tintle said. He also notes that Deschutes County took conservative efforts in the last few years to stabilize, since expenditures were growing faster than revenue as the state and federal funds were put to use. “We were responding to growing demands in the community, so we’ve had to expand more in certain areas, such as roads and all services, particularly public health and response to the pandemic,” Tintle said.

City of Bend: Big investments in projects The City of Bend’s spending has tracked above the rate of inflation, but Samantha Nelson, the City of Bend chief financial officer, says that’s not necessarily a bad thing, on par with overspending. Much of the City’s resources came from the federal government during Covid-19 and were spent in the following years. “We’ve had some fairly significant investments that occurred — and continue to occur — since then,” Nelson said. “That’s going to inflate our expense numbers a little bit, and those are one-time events that are occurring.” The City’s transportation GO Bond, for example, won voters’ approval in November 2020. That money came from a dedicated increase of property taxes. Nelson noted that also during the Covid Pandemic, the City was using the $14 million in ARPA money it received from the federal government, putting to use toward numerous services, including houseless services. For example, in 2021, the City of Bend used $2 million in ARPA funds to acquire the property that is now the Lighthouse Navigation Center. “Some of those increases during that time are very much tied to very specific capital projects,” said Nelson, who has 19 years in government financial experience and took over as the City’s CFO in 2023. That’s when construction had begun on the City of Bend’s Public Works campus, about a $128 million investment. “If you have ARPA money, that money has deadlines by the time you had to spend it,” Nelson said, adding that spending commitments were required by the federal government. Money from the GO Bond was similarly dogeared, with firm initiation and completion dates, Nelson said. The City is about halfway through that funding. Since 2020, the spending lines of Bend and Redmond have surfed similar waves. Nelson interprets that crest as a period of substantial growth for both cities, including population. You don’t have to live here to recognize that Deschutes County and its two largest cities have experienced explosive growth over the past few decades. U.S. Census data shows that Deschutes

County grew from about 174,300 residents in 2015 to 213,072 in 2025, the latest estimate available. Redmond grew from about 28,430 to 38,540 in that same time period, and Bend, from 76,639 to 107,342. Oregon, for its part, grew from 4.02 million in 2015 to an estimated 4.3 million in 2025. All this growth precipitated needs that had to be met with spending. Those needs included housing, and increased services. Nelson says narrative histories can be teased from these numbers. “It’s my job as a financial professional to explain the story behind the numbers and say, “OK, what attributed to that? What happened? Government expenditures are not that clear cut. They’re way more complex, more nuanced in the details.”

Oregon: spending grows the social safety net, state payroll Not to be neglected, Oregon’s state spending outgrew population growth during the pandemic and didn’t recede during this analysis period. That’s what Oregon Journalism Project reporter Nigel Jaquiss demonstrated in a recent piece that uses OJP’s Civic Ledger to look at the state’s spending patterns. He reported that a growing economy and revenues from existing taxes fueled spending. During the analysis period, Jaquiss reports that state employees grew by 11%, yet the largest source of spending came from supporting Oregon’s social safety net, including the expansion of the Oregon Health Plan. For a fuller understanding of state spending, read Jaquiss’ story, “Medicaid Shortfall Follows DecadeLong Growth in State Spending,” at Oregonjournalismproject.com. —The Oregon Journalism Project’s Civic Ledger is free and available to the public. It can be found at civicledger.oregonjournalismproject.org/ —This story is powered by the Lay It Out Foundation, the nonprofit with a mission of promoting deep reporting and investigative journalism in Central Oregon. Learn more and be part of this important work by visiting layitoutfoundation.org.

AUGUST 13, 2026 / BEND’S INDEPENDENT VOICE - NOW DAILY AT WWW.BENDSOURCE.COM 16

SOURCE PICKS THURSDAY

8/13

The Cutmen are an eight-piece instrumental funk and soul jazz band with a horn section. The band has been performing in the Oregon area for the last 10 years playing house shows, festivals and weddings. The Cutmen has shared the stage with the Polyrhythmics, the Wailers and more. 7:30-9:30pm at The Commonwealth Pub, 30 SW Century Dr., Bend. Free.

FRIDAY

8/14

THEATER IN THE PARK: "THE PRODUCERS" FLOP TO FAME

FRIDAY

YING YANG TWINS & MIMS 2000S THROWBACK PARTY BLAST FROM THE PAST

8/14

8/15

SUNRIVER MUSIC FESTIVAL 49TH SEASON FESTIVAL OF CLASSICS

The Tower Theatre presents the 49th Sunriver Music Festival. Artistic Director Brett Mitchell leads world-class musicians in Bend and Sunriver. Enjoy classical, pop and family concerts featuring Michelle Cann, Tessa Lark and more. 7:30pm at Tower Theatre, 835 NW Wall St., Bend. $40-$96/ $25 for people 25 and younger.

SATURDAY

SUNDAY

8/16

THE LIBRARIANS BETWEEN THE STACKS

Get ready for a throwback night packed with early 2000s energy. Mims, known for his breakout hit, “This Is Why I’m Hot,” is pulling up to Silver Moon in Bend for a nostalgic hip-hop show alongside the legendary Ying Yang Twins. Expect a night full of classic hits, high energy and crowd interaction that takes you straight back to the peak club era. 8-11pm at Silver Moon Brewing, 24 NW Greenwood Ave, Bend. $33.65 – $81.80.

SATURDAY

A unique outdoor theater experience in the heart of downtown Bend. Theater in the Park returns to Drake Park for two unforgettable summer evenings under the stars Friday and Saturday night. This year’s production is the Broadway smash hit, "The Producers," the outrageous musical comedy by Mel Brooks that tells the story of two scheming producers who try to stage the biggest flop in Broadway history...and accidentally create a hit. 6-9pm at Drake Park, 777 NW Riverside Blvd., Bend. $39 – $87.15.

8/14

Screen award winning documentary followed by panel discussion with local librarians. Librarians emerge as first responders in the fight for democracy and First Amendment Rights. As they well know, controlling the flow of ideas means control over communities. 11am-1pm at Central Library, 61956 SE Santorini Street, Bend. Free.

SUNDAY

8/16

THE RIVERSTONES AMERICANA LIVE

Come out and listen to the folk-rock and Celtic Americana sounds of the Riverstones! Enjoy their spirited performance on the backyard garden stage while sipping on award-winning cider, beer, wine & N/A options. Light appetizers available, outside food welcome. Kid & dog friendly. Free! 5-7pm at Bend Cider Co, 64649 Wharton Ave., Bend. Free.

MONDAY

8/17

8/15 Adobe Stock

BINGO WITH BREN SUPPORTING BOYS & GIRLS CLUBS OF BEND BINGO THAT GIVES BACK

Bingo with Bren is hosting an event to support the Boys & Girls Clubs of Bend! Half the proceeds go to cash prizes, while the other half helps provide kids with safe spaces, mentorship and opportunities to thrive. $2 per card or 6 cards for $10! This is a family friendly event. 6-8pm at Bevel Craft Brewing, 911 SE Armour St., Bend. $2-10.

TUESDAY Mt. Bachelor

FRIDAY NIGHT RACES MOUNTAIN NIGHTS

Join six unsanctioned Friday night downhill mountain bike races at Mt. Bachelor’s Bike Park. Test your skills on different tracks, compete in every event or choose your favorite trail. This year, Mt. Bachelor is using chip timing to enhance the racing experience for all racers involved. 3:30-7:30pm. $15.90-$21.20

towertheatre.org

Unsplash, Andrei Ianovskii

HOT PIPES MOTORCYCLE SHOW START YOUR ENGINES

RAIN OR SHINE! Let’s turn it up to 11 and show off what Bend and the surrounding areas have to offer in custom and vintage motorcycles! Noon-8pm at Volcanic Theatre Pub, 70 SW Century Dr., Bend. $23 adv.

Sunday, October 4

PETER ANTONIOU

PSYCHIC COMEDIAN

ZACH AARON CLASSIC ROOTS REVIVAL

8/18

Falling under the broad Americana banner, Zach’s music is a masterful blend of influences that fans of Townes Van Zandt, Adam Carroll, Doc Watson, Willie Nelson, Justin Townes Earle and Guy Clark will appreciate. His songs resonate with an authenticity that transcends time, weaving tales of heartache, grit, and the beauty found in life’s quieter moments. 6-9pm at Silver Moon Brewing, 24 NW Greenwood Ave., Bend. $12.24.

Tuesday, October 6

ROGER MCGUINN

Tuesday, October 13

OTTMAR LIEBERT & LUNA NEGRA

17 VOLUME 30 ISSUE 33 / AUGUST 13, 2026 / THE SOURCE

THE CUTMEN SMOOTH SOUNDS

FRIDAY

8/13 – 8/18

AUGUST 13, 2026 / BEND’S INDEPENDENT VOICE - NOW DAILY AT WWW.BENDSOURCE.COM 18

S

Local music venues are important to building Bend’s community By Abby Francis

I

’ve been making it a point to go to more small concerts lately. When all is said and done, there’s something good about knowing your money is fueling the next local show instead of disappearing into a corporate balance sheet. Small venues have a kind of magic that’s hard to explain until you’re standing in the middle of them. You’re close enough to see the guitarist banging out a perfect solo, to catch a lyric shouted back by the crowd or to watch strangers become concert buddies before the encore. The performance feels less spectacle and more like a conversation. But what happens to the music community when the places that nurture new artists and keep creativity local begin to disappear? To better understand what local music venues mean to the communities around them, I spoke to several venue operators, artists and fans. Chris Monlux, who recently retired after more than 30 years in the live music industry, is the co-founder of the music booking company Monqui Presents, which for years booked performances at Bend's amphitheater. He says that what makes any venue is both the experience of the artist and the experience of the audience while they are there. This can range from the quality of the sound to backstage amenities for artists. “If they take care of the bands and the customers, venues thrive,” he said. Elton John’s debut at the Troubadour in Los Angles or Nirvana’s first small tour at Satyricon in Portland helped the artists gain a massive following and sign with labels Sub Pop and DGC records. All musicians start somewhere. Jeshua Marshall is the event promoter for Silver Moon Brewing, which is currently boosting three to four music shows per week. In an era of digital disconnection and extreme discontent, he believes, “it’s an important time to put your phone down for a couple hours and just connect with other people. Seeing live music is such a great way to bridge this divide.” What is so special about small music venues for Marshall is the rawness of the performances — no huge production needed to keep the audience at attention. “You’re just experiencing the art itself coming off the performers…where you can reach out and touch them. Well, obviously, don’t actually touch them,” Marshall added with a laugh. Small music venues like Silver Moon put a generous emphasis on allowing artists to grow and foster their creativity in a safe space. Marshall told the Source of a couple of instances where local bands have formed from Silver Moon’s open mic nights. Avalon Disko, production manager and John Davis, owner of the Volcanic Theatre Pub, told the Source about their experience curating Bend’s music scene.

Volcan i

c Th eat

re

Left, John Davis, owner, and Avalon Disko, production manager at the Volcanic Theatre Pub. Pu

b

“It’s cool being able to have a space for people to show what they’ve created and hopefully make it from there,” Disko said. “People tend to just buy a ticket and see what happens.” Davis empathized that small and independent music venues are pivotal in any music community. “They really are like a conduit and cultivate the culture of a city,” Davis said. “I would say 10 to 15 artists a year end up making it to [amphitheater] level over the course of the years we have worked with them.” An intimate venue sets the stage for many artist careers. “If you took away all the small independent venues, you would feel this big drop out across the country,” Davis said. “The longevity of an artist’s career would probably be different because real fans are made in small intimate settings.” Both Disko and Davis say that smaller music venues make music more accessible to the community. Tickets at the Volcanic are usually 1/3 the price of a ticket to a show at bigger venues like the amphitheater. These types of musical events aren’t only for the musicians’ growth, but for other up-and- coming creatives. Photographers, for example. Iverson (Ivy) Smith is from Oakland, California, and started his photography career in Bend. Now based in Portland, his Instagram sports over 13,000 followers. “I love preserving moments that only exist for a few seconds,” Smith told the Source. “Music brings people together.” Small venues are where creatives get the chance to learn without the pressure of a huge production. “You get to experiment with lighting, movement…and storytelling while building relationships,” Smith said. “These experiences become foundations for shooting larger shower later on.” “Small venues are where careers begin…and [where you can] support the next generation of artists before the rest of the world knows their names,” Smith said. Rachael Vanasen, bluegrass aficionado, is an avid concert goer who’s been to more than 100 shows in Bend. “The most memorable of recent years would definitely be Armchair Boogie at Silver Moon, DeFunk or Bridge City Sinners at the Volcanic Theatre Pub, or two nights of Railroad Earth for New Year’s at the Midtown — and [I] can’t forget to mention my all-time favorite band, the Kitchen Dwellers, raging Midtown for their Valentine’s Day show in 2022,” Vanasen said. “Live music is church for me and so many others, and the intimacy of these smaller venues really deepens our connection with the music and with each other.” The Volcanic Theatre Pub has 14 upcoming shows in the month of August.

19 VOLUME 30 ISSUE 33 / AUGUST 13, 2026 / THE SOURCE

SOUND

Let’s Get Smooshed into Sweaty Little Venues Again

AUGUST 13, 2026 / BEND’S INDEPENDENT VOICE - NOW DAILY AT WWW.BENDSOURCE.COM 20

LIVE MUSIC & NIGHTLIFE

CALENDAR

Ticket and promote your events with BendTicket! BendTicket

The Commonwealth Pub Daring Greatly Daring Greatly has spent the last decade carving out a harmony-forward country rock sound rooted in classic songwriting and road-tested chemistry. The band has grown from Canadian transplants into one of the Southwest’s most respected independent touring acts. 8-10pm. Free.

M&J Tavern SUNGRATER w/JackRat and

Long Operators The Rock and Roll party just keeps coming with this collection of local mash ups! Can’t stop, won’t stop! Please tip the bands! 9am. Free.

McMenamins Old St. Francis School

The Coyote Free Line Dance Lessons Free be-

The McMenamins Karaoke Experience If you’re all about the Central Oregon vibe you won’t want to miss this special night of karaoke. Hosted by A Fine Note Karaoke Too, it’s the show where YOU ARE THE STAR. Doors at 6:30 PM in Father Luke’s Room. 7-10pm. Free.

ginner-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.

Portello Lounge Cheyenne West @ Portello

Lounge! Cheyenne West is a country music artist delivering a high-powered performance that’s not to be missed. 7-9pm. Free for customers.

Crosscut Warming Hut No 5 Erin

Cole-Baker Relax with a pint and enjoy great local music in the garden. 6-8pm. Free.

Shorty’s Taphouse Chasin’ Bandits Live!

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. Midtown Ballroom STS9 Human Dream Tour 8pm. $55.

Northside Bar & Grill Mellow Wednesday

Open Mic Night Open mic night hosted by Derek Michael Marc! 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.

Prost! - Bend Wednesday Trivia Fun at Prost!

Bend 7pm Useless Knowledge Bowl is a live trivia & more, no AI here! People can team up with friends for some casual fun, enjoy authentic food favorites, biers and more. Feed the brain and the belly! 7-9pm. Free.

SCP Redmond Hotel Trivia Night Wheth-

er you’re coming with your friends and family or flying solo, you’ll experience an evening of friendly competition, laughter and community. Open to both community members and hotel guests. Second Wednesday of every month, 6:30-8:30pm. Free.

Silver Moon Brewing Kristen Ford Kristen Ford Looping Indie Rock (Righteous Babe Records). Sacramento-based singer-songwriter performs as part of her Sad Sac tour. 7-10pm. $12.24. Silver Moon Brewing $5 Comedy Night There are many things in Bend that you can’t buy for five dollars. But $5 can get you a ticket to some of the best laughs in Bend! 7:30-9pm. $5.

13 Thursday Bevel Craft Brewing Live Music at Bevel

Seattle-based band Larches is playing at Silver Moon Brewing on Friday with support from Mari & The Dream.

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 The Cut-

men The Cutmen are an eight piece instrumental funk and soul jazz band with a horn section. The band has been performing in the Oregon area for the last ten years playing house shows, festivals and weddings. The Cutmen has shared the stage with the Polyrhythmics, the Wailers and more. 7:30-9:30pm. Free.

Frankie’s – formerly Sisters Depot

Grits ‘N Gravy Grits ‘N Gravy is a popular acoustic folk and classic country music trio performing across Central Oregon. Formed as an offshoot of the popular band Dry Canyon Stampede, the group features Lilli Worona (fiddle), Mike Biggers (guitar/vocals) and Kurt Silva (guitar/ vocals). 6-8pm. $8.

Initiative Brewing - The Hub Karaoke at Initiative in Redmond! 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 Rusty McRae Rusty McRae is a solo act with rhythm accompaniment. Old and new country music, plus rock & blues. Fairly new to Central Oregon, after thirty years living and working in Nashville, TN. 6-8pm. Free. M&J Tavern Papa Echo with Annika Hankshaw Music as soulful and hypnotic as the sea crashing into a rock, yet full of fire as hot as a forge that melts metals, this collection of musicians will mold the evening into a precious tale of possible love and murder. 9pm. Free. Pls tip the bands!

Mountain Burger Thursday Night Live! Mari & The Dream at Mountain Burger for Thursday Night Live! Great music, food & company! 6-8pm. Free.

Catch talented local artists on the patio, grab a bite from the on-site food carts and enjoy award-winning craft beer, wine, cider and more. 6-8pm. Free.

Hardtails Bar & Grill Karaoke at Hardtails Come out for a night of Karaoke with your host DJ GABY! Head to Hardtails for a fun Friday or Saturday night and sing your heart out! 8pm-Midnight. Free.

River’s Place Sweet Motor Captivating blend of Rock and Blues, with Southern Rock flavorings and a hint of R&B vibes 6-8pm. Free.

Silver Moon Brewing SONIC BENDERS Roots Funk wizards SONIC BENDERS play their first show at Silver Moon Brewing’s Outdoor Summer stage. Doors at 7pm. 2 sets between 8pm and 11pm. Central Oregon all-star lineup: “Brother Gabe” Johnson, Patrick Ondrozeck, Jarrod Donatelli, Dylan Bernal & David Watts. 8-11pm. $15 ADV / $20 DOOR. Stoller Wine Bar Bend Coyote Rider at

Stoller Wine Bar Kat Hilst, Kim Kelley and Tim Coffey perform original folk-Americana songs crafted for timeless storytelling with roots-driven sound and powerful harmonies. 6-8pm. Free.

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.

14 Friday 473 E Hood Ave The Roundabouts Improv at Spoons 100% of proceeds benefit the Sisters-Camp Sherman Fire District! Doors open at 6pm for pre-show dining—come early and grab a seat, enjoy a meal and prepare to laugh. 7:309pm. $20. Bend Cider Co. Bill Powers Old Growth Come

out and listen to the fresh originals, choice covers and traditional tunes of Bill Powers Old Growth. Comprised of guitar, bass, fiddle and mandolin, featuring soul, twang and gritty electric slide. 6-8pm. Free.

The Commonwealth Pub Dry Canyon Stampede Dry Canyon Stampede is a seasoned 7pc Country Western band based in Central Oregon. Playing Classic to Contemporary favorites, featuring 5 vocalists. 8-10pm. Free. Eurosports Sisters Food Cart Garden

Lilli Worona and Mike Biggers Free live music every Friday night from 5-7pm at Eurosports. This week it’s Lilli Worona and Mike Biggers. 5-7pm. Free.

Frankie’s – formerly Sisters Depot

Friday Nights with Tony Lompa Tony Lompa brings the vibe to Frankie’s most Fridays. If the weather’s nice, he plays in the courtyard. If not, he plays upstairs. 6pm. Free.

Submitting an event is free and easy.

From classic country favorites to rock anthems across the decades, Chasin’ Bandits brings the party wherever they play. Covering hits from the ’60s through today, this talented group delivers an energetic performance to remember long after the night ends. 6-9pm. Free.

Silver Moon Brewing JAMPOKE Just as a Cowpoke watches over their cattle, Jampoke is always chasing the next Jam. Blending deep grooves with rich Americana storytelling, the band creates an experience that’s as immersive as it is unpredictable. 7-10pm. $14.92. Silver Moon Brewing Larches & Mari & The Dream Larches’ recorded material takes inspiration from the guitar rock of Built to Spill and songwriting of Sparklehorse, aiming to capture the energy found playing live around the Pacific Northwest. 7-10pm. $12.24. Silver Moon Brewing YING YANG TWINS & MIMS 2000s THROWBACK PARTY Get ready for a throwback night packed with early 2000s energy. Mims is pulling up for a nostalgic hip-hop show alongside the legendary Ying Yang Twins. Expect a night full of classic hits, high energy and crowd interaction that takes you straight back to the peak club era. 8-11pm. $33.65 – $81.80.

15 Saturday

The Commonwealth Pub Double Jump Double Jump is an Indie Pop local band. Their music thrives to extend to all audiences. With high velocity vocals and stunning saxophone sounds; come jump around! 8-10pm. Free. Hardtails Bar & Grill Karaoke at Hardtails Come out for a night of Karaoke with your host DJ GABY! What’s your go-to karaoke tune? Come to Hardtails for a fun Friday or Saturday night and sing your heart out! 8pm-Midnight. Free. Hardtails Bar & Grill Cover City Bringing the soundtrack to every generation, this high-energy band delivers the biggest dance hits from the 1970s through today. From disco classics and ’80s favorites to ‘90s throwbacks, pop anthems, country dance hits and today’s chart-toppers, their show is designed to keep the dance floor packed all night long. 8-10pm. $10. Maragas Winery Lisa Dae & Co. - Port-

land Jazz Cream of the crop Pacific NW Jazz. Listen to this amazing jazz group surrounded by vineyard and the beauty of Smith Rock, pastoral countryside and multiple peaks of the Cascade Mountains. 7-9pm. 30.

Add your event to our calendar at bendsource.com

→

21 VOLUME 30 ISSUE 33 / AUGUST 13, 2026 / THE SOURCE

12 Wednesday

→

AUGUST 13, 2026 / BEND’S INDEPENDENT VOICE - NOW DAILY AT WWW.BENDSOURCE.COM 22

2020-2026

EVENTS Portello Lounge Chris Beland - Live Music @ Portello Lounge Chris Beland writes with a sincerity that draws audiences in with songs that feel deeply personal, as if they’re meant just for each audience member. 6:30-8:30pm. Free for customers.

Chasin’ Bandits play country & rock favorites from the ’60s through today. This talented band brings energy, fun and unforgettable entertainment to every show. 6-9pm. Free.

16 Sunday Bend Cider Co. The Riverstones

Come out and listen to the folk-rock and Celtic Americana sounds of the Riverstones! Enjoy their spirited performance on our backyard garden stage, while sipping on award-winning cider, beer, wine & N/A options. 5-7pm. Free.

Brooks Street Boat House Sunday Jazz on the Patio with Sean Alan & Jazz On The Side Singer, songwriter and keyboardist Sean blends diverse musical influences into a smooth, romantic sound. His soulful crooner-style vocals, accompanied by some of Central Oregon’s finest jazz musicians, create a warm and memorable live music experience. Family-friendly. 5-7pm. Free. The Commonwealth Pub Trifecta Irish Music Trifecta is a band that specializes in traditional Celtic music from Ireland and other parts of the world.They will transport you to simpler times in the rural Celtic countryside through music. 4-6pm. Free. Deschutes Brewery Tasting Room & Beer Garden Sunday Sessions: Fluffalove

This Bend, Oregon husband/wife duo plays all your fave ‘70’s cuts with acoustic guitars and harmony vox. 4-6pm. Free.

GoodLife Brewing Live Music in the GoodLife Beer Garden Free Live Music in GoodLife’s Beergarden with full kitchen, full bar, food trucks, playground, kids menu and GOOD VIBES! 4-6pm. 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 Swing & Line Dancing on the Patio Free swing lesson, two line dances and open dance means something for everyone. No experience necessary. No partner necessary. An evening of dancing on the patio lead by FireLine Dancing. 6-8pm. Free. Silver Moon Brewing Magnolia Boulevard If patience is a virtue, then the current state of Magnolia Boulevard plays right into the long-held notion that sonic grandeur evolves in its own time and place — one where the Lexington, Kentucky, rock-n-soul act is aiming to break into a national audience ready and roaring for the quintet’s soaring talents. 6-9pm. $14.82.

17 Monday Bevel Craft Brewing Bingo with Bren Supporting Boys & Girls Clubs of Bend Bingo with Bren is hosting an event to support the Boys & Girls Clubs of Bend! Half the proceeds go to cash prizes, while the other half helps provide kids with safe spaces, mentorship, and opportunities to thrive. $2 per card or 6 cards for $10! 6-8pm. $2. M&J Tavern Vinyl Night Monday Night just

got better!!! SupaFly will be your Dj. Bring your own vinyl and sign up to add it to the Playlist or pick from hers. 9pm-12am. Free.

18 Tuesday 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 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. The Commons Cafe & Taproom Open Mic StoryTellers open mic nights are full of music, laughs and community. Mason James is the host. Poetry, comedy and spoken word are welcome, but this is mainly a musical open mic. 6pm. Free. The Commonwealth Pub Summit Express Jazz - Tuesday Night Jazz “Taking Dixieland Jazz to new Heights” is a fitting slogan for this high energy band from Bend, Oregon. The members of this 6 piece traditional Dixieland jazz band are all versatile musicians. 7-9pm. Free. Ticketmaster

Popular indie-alternative artist Goth Babe takes the stage at Silver Moon Brewing on Saturday.

23 VOLUME 30 ISSUE 33 / AUGUST 13, 2026 / THE SOURCE

Silver Moon Brewing Goth Babe 8pm. Wetlands Taphouse Chasin’ Bandits LIVE!

CALENDAR

AUGUST 13, 2026 / BEND’S INDEPENDENT VOICE - NOW DAILY AT WWW.BENDSOURCE.COM 24

EVENTS

TICKETS AVAILABLE AT

CALENDAR Sunriver Music Festival

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! Bring good vibes and a pen. 6:30pm. Free.

Sunriver Music Festival Family Concert: Harry Potter and the Instruments of the Orchestra In a fun, informal

setting, learn more about the instruments of the orchestra — accompanied by Harry, Hedwig & friends! Arrive between 2:30-3:30 to Meet the Instruments before! Aug. 14, 4pm. SHARC, 57250 Overlook Rd., Sunriver. Contact: 541593-1084. tickets@sunrivermusic.org. Free 17 and under; $15 adults.

M&J Tavern Karaoke Sign-ups start at 8pm! 8pm-1:15am. Free.

River’s Place Bingo! Have fun, win money and help out a local non profit organization. Cards $1 - $5 6-8pm. Free.

DANCE

Boots & Brews at Worthy Brewing

The Sunriver Music Festival’s 49th season is here, featuring concerts in Bend and Sunriver.

Silver Moon Brewing M.A. Sampson

& Mustang County Boxing Jamboree A night of energetic original songwriting from PNW artists! 6-9pm. $12.24.

Hayden Homes Amphitheater TOTO + Christopher Cross + The Romantics 6:45pm.

Volcanic Theatre Pub Whitney Whitney

Tuesday, August 18th 2026 outside in the Courtyard Genre - Indie Rock / Pop Doors @ 6PM - Show Starts @ 7PM Presale - $25 Door $35 6pm. Presale - $25 Door - $35.

19 Wednesday

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. M&J Tavern Musicians Open Mic All Musicians welcome to the downtown living room! Sign-ups start at 6pm. Set up and ready to go by 6:30pm. 21 and over. 6:30pm. Free.

The Astro Lounge Karaoke with Christina

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.

The Commonwealth Pub Eric Leadbet-

ter Solo His music style is vast and diverse. With inspiration from vintage rock sounds sprinkled with tasteful jam sections, to a unique contemporary eclectic melting pot of songwriting styles. Eric delivers. 7:30-9:30pm. Free.

Crosscut Warming Hut No 5 Ben

Johnson Relax with a pint and enjoy great local music in our garden from 6-8pm. 6-8pm. Free.

Flux Thermal Lounge Flux Block Party

Just a little gathering with local businesses focused on health, wellness and good vibes. Join with your friends and family for a chill Sunday afternoon of music and to sample some tasty treats. 3pm. Free.

Frankie’s – formerly Sisters Depot

Handpicked Series by Tom Nechville & Linda Leavitt An intimate music series featuring handpicked performers by Tom Nechville & Linda Leavitt. No cover—only suggested donation proceeds supporting CoreSisters.org or the Latin Community Association. 6-8pm. Free.

WINNIE-THE-POOH Drake Park FRIDAY AUG 14 @ 11:00am

Bella Accapella Choir Celebrate the opening of the Central Library with sweet harmonies. Bella Acappella is a women’s group dedicated to music education and community outreach through the joy of singing. Aug. 16, 3-4pm. Central Library, 61956 SE Santorini Street, Bend. Contact: 541-3121-1032. lizg@ deschuteslibrary.org. Free. Coyote Rider Kat Hilst, Kim Kelley and

day Open Mic Night Open mic night hosted by Derek Michael Marc! 5:30-8pm. Free.

Tim Coffey perform original folk-Americana songs crafted for timeless storytelling with roots-driven sound and powerful harmonies. CHOW, 1110 NW Newport Ave., Bend. Free.

Portello Lounge Music Bingo Music Bingo

Sunday Sessions Enjoy a variety of free

Northside Bar & Grill Mellow Wednes-

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.

Prost! - Bend Wednesday Trivia Fun at

Prost! Bend 7pm Useless Knowledge Bowl is a live trivia & more, no AI here! Feed the brain and the belly! 7-9pm. Free.

Silver Moon Brewing Big Deck Energy re you ready for Big Deck Energy Bend, Oregon? A show that is exactly as it sounds. Eight comics share their twisted and hilariously wild opinions on a slideshow deck. Featuring: Jeddy Machete, Brian Keister, Jason Leonardo, Creach, Jon Brown, Katy Ipock, Fredo, and Ryan Traughbor. Hosted by Katy Ipock. 7:309pm. $5. Volcanic Theatre Pub Outdoor Courtyard KBong & Johnny Cosmic KBong is a Singer-songwriter inspired by traveling, hiking and spending time in tropical places. Johnny Cosmic is a multi instrumentalist with over 20 years of experience. 6pm. $25 Presale/ $35 at Door.

FEATURED EVENTS BEAT CHILDREN’S THEATRE PRESENTS

MUSIC

live music at the outdoor beer garden every Sunday until the end of August! Sundays, 4-6pm. Through Aug. 30. Deschutes Brewery Tasting Room & Beer Garden, 901 SW Simpson Ave., Bend. Contact: 541-385–8606. Free.

Sunriver Music Festival 49th Season The Tower Theatre presents the 49th

Sunriver Music Festival. Artistic Director Brett Mitchell leads world-class musicians in Bend and Sunriver. Enjoy classical, pops, and family concerts featuring Michelle Cann, Tessa Lark, and more. Wed, Aug. 12, 7:30pm, Fri, Aug. 14, 4pm, Sat, Aug. 15, 7:30pm. Tower Theatre, 835 NW Wall St., Bend. Contact: 541-593-1084. information@sunrivermusic.org. $40-$96/ $25 for people 25 and younger.

Sunriver Music Festival Classical Concert II This program celebrates the 100th

anniversary of William Grant Still’s jazzy tone poem, Darker America. Aug. 12, 7:30pm. Great Hall, Sunriver Resort, 17600 Center Dr., Sunriver. Contact: 541-593-1084. tickets@sunrivermusic.org. $45-$91; 25 & under $25.

Country line dance lessons 6-7pm. Two-step dance lessons 7-8pm. Open dancing 8-9pm. Food & drink specials. Tuesdays, 7-8pm. Worthy Brewing - Main Pub and Brewery, 495 NE Bellevue Dr., Bend. Contact: howdy@ swingnline.com. Free.

Free Community Square Dance Introduction Learn the basics of square

dancing with an introductory session. Everyone is welcome, and no dance experience or partner is necessary. There’ll be square-dancing professionals teaching all the moves. Aug. 15, 6-7pm. Pine Forest Grange Hall, 63214 Boyd Acres Rd., Bend. Contact: 6199570732. rswee3@gmail.com. Free.

La Bon Burlesque Presents: Tides of Temptation The tide is rising. This will

be a night of sirens, mermaids, pirates and ocean-inspired burlesque at Tides of temptation. Aug. 15, 7-9pm. Craft Kitchen & Brewery, 62988 Layton Ave Ste 103, (no city). Contact: NA. labonburlesque@gmail.com. $15.00$35.00.

FILM EVENTS

The Librarians Screen award winning documentary followed by panel discussion with local librarians. Librarians emerge as first responders in the fight for democracy and First Amendment Rights. Aug. 16, 11am-1pm. Central Library, 61956 SE Santorini Street, Bend. Contact: 541-312-1032. Free. The Peanuts Movie: Sensory Movie Night The Peanuts Movie offers a colorful

gateway into the world of its classic characters and a sweetly nostalgic treat for the adults who grew up with them. Aug. 12, 6pm. Tower Theatre, 835 NW Wall St., Bend. Contact: 541-3170700. info@towertheatre.org. Free (Reserve a seat in advance).

Ticket and promote your events with BendTicket!

THEATER IN THE PARK: THE PRODUCERS

HOT PIPES MOTORCYCLE SHOW

Drake Park

Volcanic Theatre Pub

The Pavilion

FRIDAY AUG 14 @ 6:00pm

SATURDAY AUG 15 @ 12:00pm

SATURDAY AUG 15 @ 7:00pm

ROLLER DERBY LAVA CITY VS. THE BRAWLIPOP GUILD

25 VOLUME 30 ISSUE 33 / AUGUST 13, 2026 / THE SOURCE

with a deeply moving multimedia work about Einstein’s inner world and relationships, written by Kevin Puts and featuring the return of bass-baritone Timothy Jones. Aug. 18, 7:30pm. Tower Theatre, 835 NW Wall St., Bend. Contact: 541-593-1084. tickets@sunrivermusic.org. Tickets $45-$91; age 25 & under - $25.

Initiative Brewing - The Hub Bingo at Initiative in Redmond! Randy is hosting Central Oregon’s “semi-pro” bingo legend, for a fun night with real cash prizes. Great food, cold drinks, and a good time—all while supporting the Redmond Senior Center! 5:30-7:30pm. Free.

Silver Moon Brewing Zach Aaron Falling under the broad Americana banner, Zach’s music is a masterful blend of influences. His songs resonate with an authenticity that transcends time, weaving tales of heartache, grit, and the beauty found in life’s quieter moments. 6-9pm. $12.24.

Sunriver Music Festival Classical Concert III The third Classical Concert opens

AUGUST 13, 2026 / BEND’S INDEPENDENT VOICE - NOW DAILY AT WWW.BENDSOURCE.COM

26

Meet Dr. Anna Kilgore! She sees cats and dogs and has a special interest in behavioral management (both training and pharmaceutical), surgery, and the treatment of sporting dogs.

Accepting new patients!

Exceptional care. Tailored to your pet.

Wellness Care, Dentistry, Surgery, Nutrition, Allergy and Dermatology,

541-678-5440

Behavioral Counseling, Limited Same

bendvets.com

Day Urgent Care Appointments

EVENTS

CALENDAR Brian Becker

27

PRESENTATIONS + EXHIBITS

Crook County Summer Celebrate the traditions that have shaped summers in Crook County with Crook County Summers, a special exhibit at the Belknap Exhibit Center at the Bowman Museum. Explore the history of the Crooked River Roundup, Horse Races and Fair through photographs, artifacts, and stories that showcase these beloved community events. Tuesdays-Fridays, 10am-5pm and Saturdays, 11am-4pm. Through Aug. 27. A. R. Bowman Museum, 246 N Main St, Prineville. Contact: 541-447-3715. sean.briscoe@crookcountyor.gov. Free. Pathways to Affordable Homeownership with RootedHomes Discover

how affordable homeownership is possible in Central Oregon. Third Tuesday of every month, 5:30-7pm. Through Dec. 15. Redmond Public Library, 827 SW Deschutes Ave., Redmond. Contact: 5413121032. lizg@dpls.lib.or.us. Free.

Topics in Contemporary Photography In this lecture, artist and photographer

Esther Macy Nooner examines the historical foundations of the medium alongside contemporary photographic practices, exploring how technology and evolving perspectives continue to influence the creation and interpretation of images. Aug. 13, 6pm. Scalehouse Gallery, 550 NW Franklin Ave, Bend. Contact: (541) 3621288. info@scalehouse.org. $15.00.

THEATER

Angels in America (Theater) The most

ambitious American play of our time: an epic that switches between realism and fantasy, from the tragedy of AIDS to the camp comedy of drag queens to the death or at least the absconding of God. From Bend’s only professional theater that brought you ONCE and Great Comet! Thu, Aug. 13, 7pm, Fri, Aug. 14, 7pm, Sat, Aug. 15, 7pm, Sun, Aug. 16, 7pm. The Greenhouse Cabaret, 1017 NE 2nd St., Bend. Contact: info@thegreenhousecabaret.com. $19-79.

The Play that Goes Wrong A thrilling

murder mystery takes a turn for the disastrous as things begin to go from bad, to worse, to irrecoverably wrong. The most ambitious production that Meadow Sky has taken on, The Play That Goes Wrong is an epic slapstick comedy for the whole family. Fri, Aug. 14, 7-9:30pm, Sat, Aug. 15, 2-4:30pm and Sun, Aug. 16, 3-5:30pm. High Desert Music Hall, 818 SW Forest Ave., Redmond. Contact: 4582066879. meadowskyproductions@gmail. com. 30.

Theater in the Park: The Producers Don’t miss this unique outdoor

theater experience in the heart of downtown Bend. Catch The Producers, the outrageous musical comedy by Mel Brooks that tells the story of two scheming producers who try to stage the biggest flop in Broadway history… and accidentally create a hit. Aug. 14, 6-9pm and Aug. 15, 6-9pm. Drake Park, 777 NW Riverside Blvd., Bend. $39 – $87.15.

Theater in the Park: Winnie-thePooh BEAT Children’s Theatre proudly pres-

ents Winnie-the-Pooh by A.A. Milne, adapted by Kathryn Schultz Miller. Step into a world of gentle adventure and timeless friendship and the simple magic of childhood with this classic, heartwarming play. Perfect for families and dreamers of all ages, this production is sure to delight both longtime fans and those discovering these treasured characters for the very first time. Aug. 15, 11am-12:30pm. Drake Park, 777 NW Riverside Blvd., Bend. $28.29 – $39.

Winnie-the-Pooh With this classic, heartwarming production, BEAT joins audiences around the world in celebrating 100 years of Winnie-the-Pooh, Christopher Robin, and all their beloved friends from the Hundred Acre Wood. Fridays-Saturdays, 6-7pm and Saturdays-Sundays, 1-2pm. Through Aug. 16. Open Space Event Studios, 220 NE Lafayette Ave, Bend. Contact: 541-419-5558. admin@ beatchildrenstheatre.org. $20.

WORDS

“Something Wicked” Part 2: Famous Scenes from “Macbeth” Explore the most famous moments from William Shakespeare’s popular play. Aug. 19, Noon-1pm. Central Library, 61956 SE Santorini Street, Bend. Contact: 541-312-1032. lizg@dpls.lib. or.us. Free.

The Art of Ultrarunning: Tried & Tested Strategies for Long-Distance Runners, Ian Sharman Join Bend resident Ian Sharman to discuss his book, The Art of Ultrarunning: Tried & Tested Strategies for Long-Distance Runners (available July 2nd). Aug. 13, 6:30-7:30pm. Roundabout Books, 900 NW Mount Washington Dr., #110, Bend. Contact: 5413066564. events@roundaboutbookshop.com. $5.

At a Loss for Words Explore the power of words with Oregon Poet Laureate Ellen Waterston. Space is limited and registration is required. Aug. 16, 2-4pm. Central Library, 61956 SE Santorini Street, Bend. Contact: 5413112-1032. lizg@deschuteslibrary.org. Free.

VOLUME 30 ISSUE 33 / AUGUST 13, 2026 / THE SOURCE

Theater in the Park returns to Drake Park Friday and Saturday night.

AUGUST 13, 2026 / BEND’S INDEPENDENT VOICE - NOW DAILY AT WWW.BENDSOURCE.COM

28

Heating & A/C Inc.

541-350-6663

EVENTS

TICKETS AVAILABLE AT

Unplash - Reno Laithienne

FAMILY + KIDS

Garlic Bread, and Dessert Included Dessert Auction & 50/50 Raffle Tickets svailable at the door or in advance Full Plates, Happy Hearts, and Stronger Community All Proceeds Support Redmond Masonic Lodge Aug. 14, 6-8pm. Redmond Masonic Lodge, 627 SW Seventh St., Redmond. Contact: 541-699-6947. $20 per person $40 family price (2 adults and children).

August 14, at 9 AM to walk through classrooms, meet school leaders and learn more about the college-prep program. This event is for prospective PK–12 parents and guardians; rising 6th–12th grade students are welcome and encouraged to attend. Aug. 14, 9-10:30am. Cascades Academy, 19860 Tumalo Reservoir Rd., Bend. Contact: 5413820699. admission@ cascadesacademy.org. Free.

Bingo with Bren Supporting Boys & Girls Clubs of Bend Bingo with

Bren is hosting an event to support the Boys & Girls Clubs of Bend! Half the proceeds go to cash prizes, while the other half helps provide kids with safe spaces, mentorship and opportunities to thrive. $2 per card or 6 cards for $10! This is a family friendly event. 6-8pm at Bevel Craft Brewing, 911 SE Armour St., Bend. $2-10.

U.S. Poet Laureate Arthur Sze Readings from his work and a discussion about poetry as Arthur Sze shares insights into a career spanning five decades. Aug. 15, 3-4pm. Central Library, 61956 SE Santorini Street, Bend. Contact: 541312-1032. lizg@deschuteslibrary.org. Free.

ETC.

Hot Pipes Motorcycle Show

Hot Pipes Motorcycle Show Saturday, August 15th 2025 Presale - $23 12:00 PM - 8:00 PM RAIN OR SHINE We are looking to turn it up to 11 and show off what Bend and the surrounding areas have to offer in custom and vintage motorcycle Aug. 15, Noon. Volcanic Theatre Pub, 70 SW Century Dr., Bend. $23 adv.

Trivia Night Third Tuesday trivia at Funky Fauna, free to enter & prizes for the winners. Hail yeah! Third Tuesday of every month, 6-8pm. Funky Fauna Artisan Ales, 1125 NE Second St., Bend. Free. Trivia Tuesday Trivia Tuesday with Emily! Free to play with prizes for 1st, 2nd and 3rd. Industry Night with 25% off beverage service for workers in the food, bev or cannabis industry! Tuesdays, 6-8pm. Cheba Hut, 1288 SW Simpson Ave., Bend. Contact: 541-388-8400. bend-westside@chebahut.com. Free.

OUTDOOR EVENTS Dark Sky Party - Perseids Meteor Shower Marvel at our incredible universe

in the gorgeous and convenient setting of downtown Sisters, Oregon! Thanks to Explore Sisters, you attend for free! You’ll take in the brilliance of Central Oregon’s night sky while locating constellations and observing visible planets. This party celebrates the peak of the perseids meteor shower! Aug. 13, 8:45-9:45pm. Cliff Clemens Park, 550 N. Larch St. in Sisters, Oregon., Sisters. Contact: 541-645-0688. jennie@starshine-theater.com. FREE!.

Deschutes River Conservancy: Flows and Farms in a Changing Landscape

For over 40 years, the Deschutes River has sustained Fields Farm, a small, family-run, urban vegetable farm in east Bend. Trace that water from river to field, learn about river impacts, and discuss the challenges of balancing flow restoration and farming through a growing city and a changing climate. Aug. 19, 4-6pm. Fields Farm, 61915 Pettigrew Rd., Bend. Contact: 541382-4077. taylor@deschutesriver.org. Free.

Friday Night Races Join six unsanc-

tioned Friday night downhill mountain bike races at Mt. Bachelor’s Bike Park. Test your skills on different tracks, compete in every event or choose your favorite trail. This year, Mt. Bachelor will be using chip timing to enhance the racing experience for all racers involved.Fri., Aug. 14, 3:30-7:30pm. $15.90-$21.20.

Bingo for Senior Dogs Play bingo while

supporting senior and disabled rescue dogs at RylieMay Rescue Ranch. Spider City will also donate $1 from all beverage purchases. ryliemayrescueranch.com. Every other Thursday, 6-8pm. Spider City Brewing - Brewery Tap Room, 1177 SE Ninth St., Bend. Contact: ryliemayrescueranch@gmail.com. $1-$3 per game.

Meet Your Farmer Dinner in the Cave

Central Oregon Locavore hosts a rare dinner inside a 60,000-year-old cave beneath Juniper Preserve’s golf course. Chef Matt Christianson prepares a multi-course meal from two local farms, Well Rooted Produce and Big Summit Beef, with guests dining alongside the farmers. Proceeds benefit Locavore’s new marketplace expansion on Bend’s Westside. Aug. 14, 5-9pm. Juniper Preserve, 65600 Pronghorn Club Dr., Bend. Contact: info@centraloregonlocavore. org. $172.57.

EVENTS Perseids Meteor Shower Hiking Tour + MARKETS Two amazing hiking options to take in the Perseids Meteor Shower this summer. Join for what is sure to be a magical night experiencing one of the brightest meteor showers that will grace our solar system in 2025. Aug. 12. Wanderlust Tours, 61535 S Hwy 97, Bend. Contact: 541-389-8359. info@wanderlusttours. com.$130.

Roller Derby - Lava City vs. The Brawlipop Guild Doors Open at 6:00pm,

Game Starts at 7:00pm. Tickets are $15 in advance, $18 at the door, $12 for Seniors/ Veterans/Students, 5 and under free with paid adult. Seating is limited-please bring your own chair. Aug. 15, 7-8:45pm. The Pavilion, 1001 SW Bradbury Way, Bend. $12–$15.

Skyball Have fun while getting your exercise. For active men and women ages 60+. Mondays and Thursdays 9:30-10:45. Meet at the net just west of playground. Information and video available on Substack. Search “SkyBallOregon”. Contact Dave 541-233-7573 or email: skyballoregon@icloud.com.Free.

East Fork Seconds Pop-up - Bend

East Fork’s signature seconds sale pop-up series is coming to Bend for one-day only. Come shop sustainably crafted pottery “seconds” at 30% off retail price. A portion of all proceeds will be donated to The Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs. Aug. 15, 10am. Mud Lake Studios, 50 SE Scott st. #5, Bend. Free.

Redmond Farmers Market Peruse and

shop for some goods from local vendors and farmers. The Friday Farmers Market runs from May through August. Fridays, 3-7pm. Through Aug. 28. Centennial Park, Evergreen, Between 7th and 8th St., Redmond. Free.

THREADS N’ TUNES Your Sunday plans

are officially handled. Grab your friends and head to Threads N’ Tunes for an afternoon of vintage finds, good beats, coffee, cold beer and community. Aug. 16, 11am-4pm. Upp Liquids, 550 SW Industrial way, Bend. Contact: 5416400118. vintagehouse81@gmail.com. Free.

Cascade Academy All-School Open House An all-school open house on Friday,

Crook County Summer Celebrate the traditions that have shaped summers in Crook County with Crook County Summers, a special exhibit at the Belknap Exhibit Center at the Bowman Museum. Explore the history of the Crooked River Roundup, Horse Races and Fair through photographs, artifacts, and stories that showcase these beloved community events. Tuesdays-Fridays, 10am-5pm and Saturdays, 11am-4pm. Through Aug. 27. A. R. Bowman Museum, 246 N Main St, Prineville. Contact: 541-447-3715. sean.briscoe@crookcountyor.gov. Free. Culver Crawdad Festival Enjoy live

music by Thomas T & the Blue Chips and Olivia Harms, explore 50+ vendors, and savor a delicious crawdad dinner (tickets available at the event). Food, fun, festivities, and free admission! Aug. 15, 10am-4pm. Culver Veterans Memorial Park, Culver, Culver. Contact: 541546-6494. culvercrawdad@gmail.com. Free.

Hello! Storytime Roundabout Books Sto-

rytime! Share stories, movement and a touch of music with 0-5 year olds, geared toward those younger ages. There will be a heavy emphasis on fun, so bring your listening ears and a smile. Aug. 12, 10:30-11am. Roundabout Books, 900 NW Mount Washington Dr., #110, Bend. Contact: 5413066564. events@roundaboutbookshop.com. Free.

Museum & Me A quieter time for children

and adults who experience physical, intellectual and/or social disabilities to enjoy the High Desert Museum after hours. Explore the Museum’s newest exhibitions and revisit your favorites. Sensory packs are available to borrow with headphones, fidgets and more. Aug. 13, 5-7pm. High Desert Museum, 59800 S. Highway 97, Bend. Contact: 541-382-4754. info@highdesertmuseum.org. Free.

Nature Kids: Teddy Bear Picnic! Join

the Deschutes Land Trust for Nature Kids! Get outside and explore the nature of Central Oregon on guided family nature walks just for kids ages 5-10. Families pack a picnic, kids bring your favorite stuffed animal, and we’ll have a picnic beneath the trees with wonderful games to play! Aug. 12, 9:30-11am. Shevlin Park, 18920 Shevlin Rd., Bend. Contact: 541-3300017. event@deschuteslandtrust.org. Free.

29 VOLUME 30 ISSUE 33 / AUGUST 13, 2026 / THE SOURCE

FUNDRAISING

All-You-Can-Eat Spaghetti Dinner Spaghetti with Meat Sauce, Fresh Salad,

Lava City Roller Derby faces off against The Bawlipop Guild this Saturday at The Pavilion.

CALENDAR

CALENDAR FOOD + DRINK

Chef’s Dinner & Wine Pairing Join this second dinner collaboration with Chef Adrien Calmels! The first event was so well received that they've invited Adrien back to share his extraordinary culinary talents with a late-summer menu. Northwest flavors through a modern lens, perfectly paired with wines from Viaggio. Seating limited. Reservations at info@ viaggiowine.com. Aug. 15, 6-9pm. Viaggio Wine Merchant, 210 SW Century Dr., Bend. Contact: 541-299-5060. info@viaggiowine.com. $160 per person (exclusive of beverages or gratuity).

AUGUST 13, 2026 / BEND’S INDEPENDENT VOICE - NOW DAILY AT WWW.BENDSOURCE.COM

30

Redmond Cookbook Club Join local home chefs for a potluck cooked from a different cookbook each month. Meet great people, enjoy delicious wine, and share fabulous food! Choose a recipe at the monthly happy hour on the 2nd Tuesdays, then bring a dish to the dinner party every 3rd Tuesday. Third Tuesday of every month, 6-8pm. Arome, 432 SW 6th St., Redmond. Contact: 503-409-7944. kelsey.seymour@jillscookbookclub.com. $15.

BEER + DRINK

$10 Rebuy Hold’em Tournament

Thursday Night $10 no limit Hold’em poker tournament at Bend Poker Room starting at 6pm. Unlimited rebuys for the first hour and an optional add-on after the first break. Friendly crowd, great vibes and action packed night! Thursdays, 6pm. Bend Poker Room, 917 NE Greenwood Ave, Bend. Contact: bendpokerroom@gmail.com. $10.

$20 Tuesdays Every Tuesday, all to-go wine bottles are $20 with the purchase of a glass. Enjoy wines you cannot find anywhere else in the world, besides the little cabin. Made exclusively from grapes sourced mainly in California and Oregon, many of which are biodynamic, these wines are exceptional. Tuesdays, 3-10pm. Olvi, 1142 NW Galveston Ave., Bend. Contact: 541-241-2443. $20.

Thank You Redmond for voting us #1

Insurance Company in Redmond, OR!

Coffee Bar & Brunch Now open for de-

licious weekend brunch, weekday craft coffee and breakfast everyday! Sunriver Brewing Company’s Eastside Pub is an East Bend meeting spot for friends and family. A place for community gathering, featuring large locally crafted wood tables, open kitchen, kids play area, and relaxed outdoor seating. Saturdays-Sundays. Sunriver Brewing Co. - Eastside Pub, 1500 NE Cushing Dr., Bend. $10-$30.

Commonwealth Pub Happy Hour It’s 5 for 5, with $5 draft beers, $5 house wines, $5 margaritas, $5 crushes and $5 well liquor. Play ping-pong, darts, cornhole, games and enjoy afternoon music on patio and indoors. Ongoing, Noon-6pm. The Commonwealth Pub, 30 SW Century Dr., Bend. Free. Friday Night $80 Poker Tournament

Bend Poker Room is hosting the most popular no limit hold’em poker tournament starting at 6pm. Register before 6pm for an extra 1/3 starting stack. Late registration runs till 7:10pm. Blind levels are 20 mins and a 10 min break every hour. Optional add-on after the 1st break! Fridays, 6-11:30pm. Bend Poker Room, 917 NE Greenwood Ave, Bend. Contact: (541) 508-9123. bendpokerroom@gmail.com. $80.

Happier Hours + Power Hour $3

draft Coors Light, $5 draft beer and food cart specials that will make your taste buds dance! Mondays-Thursdays, 2-4pm and Mondays-Thursdays, 8-9pm. Midtown Yacht Club, 1661 NE Fourth St., Bend. Contact: 458-2565454. midtownyachtclub@gmail.com. Free.

Locals’ Day Come on down to Bevel Craft Brewing for $4 beers and cider and $1 off wine all day. There are also food specials from the food carts located out back at The Patio! Tuesdays. Bevel Craft Brewing, 911 SE Armour St., Bend. Contact: holla@bevelbeer.com. Free.

EVENTS

CALENDAR Unsplash - Kelsey Knight

31

Mezcal Mondays Every Monday get to

know one new mezcal in cocktail form, and as a neat pour, at a discounted price. Plus all of our signature mezcal drinks are just $11 all night. Mondays, 4-11pm. The Flamingo Room, 70 SW Century Dr., Bend. Contact: 541-323-0472.

Monday WINE Down @ Portello Lounge Survived Monday? Reward yourself!

All wines by the glass are $9 all night at Portello Lounge EVERY Monday. Bold reds, crisp whites, bubbles, dessert pours - no commitment required, try them all! Mondays, 4-9pm. Portello Lounge, 2754 NW Crossing Dr., Bend. Contact: contact@portellobend.com.

The Pursuit of Hoppiness Hop heads unite! Join Bevel Craft Brewing for The Pursuit of Hoppiness on Saturday, August 15, 12–5pm. Sample 12 hop-forward beers from breweries across Bend and beyond. Early-bird tickets are $30 through Aug. 8 and $40 thereafter, which includes a commemorative snifter glass and 12 tasting tokens. Check out BevelBeer.com. Aug. 15, Noon-5pm. Bevel Craft Brewing, 911 SE Armour St., Bend. Contact: 5419723835. holla@bevelbeer.com. $30. Soak & Sip at Flux Your midweek reset just got an upgrade! Rent robe + sandals at Flux, and walk over to Flamingo Room for a cocktail (1 drink included in the price of rental). Tues, Wed, Thurs 4-9p, every week. Tuesdays-Thursdays, 4-9pm. Flux Thermal Lounge, 70 SW Century Dr., Suite 145, Bend. Taco & Margarita Tuesdays Enjoy 2/$10 chipotle chicken street tacos and $10 margaritas! Tuesdays, 4-9pm. Portello Lounge, 2754 NW Crossing Dr., Bend. Contact: 541-3851777. contact@portellobend.com. Free. Thirsty Thursday! $7 glasses of wine/ bubbles, $4 Rainiers, $10 margaritas + mules, $7 Wild Roots vodka lemonades, $12 Aperol spritz. Thursdays, 4-9pm. Portello Lounge, 2754 NW Crossing Dr., Bend. Contact: 541385-1777. contact@portellobend.com. Free. Tiki Tuesdays Do you love rum? Every Tues-

day we will feature a new rum at a discounted price.Truly get to know this spirit on a new level. Additionally all signature rum drinks will be just $11 all night. Tuesdays, 4-11pm. The Flamingo Room, 70 SW Century Dr., Bend. Contact: 5413230472. info@theflamingoroombend.com.

Wine On The Deck Come sit, relax and learn from the different local wineries featured on our year-round wine list. Each glass will be paired with a unique array of small-plates from our chef, using seasonal ingredients to compliment each wine. Tuesdays, 5-8pm. Through Sept. 1. The Suttle Lodge & Boathouse, 13300 Hwy 20, Sisters. Contact: sales@thesuttlelodge.com. $81.80.

HEALTH + WELLNESS

Belly Dance Classes, all levels welcome Expand your movement language by

learning a variety of Belly Dance styles + build strength, grace, confidence, & community. Classes include a great workout, yoga, professional technique, functional fitness approach for alignment, longevity, & safety in movement and body. Performance opportunities for those who desire Mondays, 5-6:15pm. Private Studio, ., Bend. Contact: https://www.templetribalfusion.com/contact/. $20.

Energetic Readings/Intuitive Readings Energetic readings reveal the energies

that boost, block, or impact you in specific areas of your life. Tuning into your unique energy system, we explore where you feel stuck, limited, or unsettled, and how you can shift to feel more joyful and empowered. In-person and Zoom. Learn more at bluelotusenergetics. com/energetic-readings. Tuesdays, 10am-7pm and Thursdays, 7-9pm. Blue Lotus Energetics, 145 NE Revere Ave, Studio C, Bend. Contact: 541-241-2207. hello@bluelotusenergetics. com. $125.

Experience Divine Healing! Need

healing? Have mysterious pains? Need spiritual insights? Then come experience Divine Healing! The Divine Healers are a wonderfully talented community of healers doing Angelic channeling, Reiki, Quantum Healing, Angel Card & Tarot readings, Mediumship, and Healing Touch every 3rd Saturday 2 - 4 PM at Unity Spiritual Community. Third Saturday of every month, 2-4pm. Through Dec. 31. Unity Spiritual Community of Central Oregon, 63645 Scenic Drive, Bend. Contact: Info@DivineHealers.org. Donation-based.

Healing Circle Tired of being stuck in your

story? Stuck in judgement and lack of freedom internally? You are warmly invited to learn to practice the 6 steps of undoing stuck emotions and apply the Choose again Method. Contact by phone or email for more details. Third Saturday of every month, 1:30pm. Through Dec. 19. Location TBA, Location TBA, Location TBA. Contact: 760-208-9097. lmhauge4@gmail. com. Free.

Men’s Connection Group This is the

perfect event for men struggling with life challenges and looking for support. This event is a circle for an evening of support, sharing, and connection. Mondays, 6:30-8:30pm. Living Undone, 33 NW Louisiana Ave, Bend. Contact: 541-410-5572. centraloregonmen@gmail.com. Free/ Donations accepted.

VOLUME 30 ISSUE 33 / AUGUST 13, 2026 / THE SOURCE

All wines by the glass are $9 all night at Portello Lounge every Monday.

AUGUST 13, 2026 / BEND’S INDEPENDENT VOICE - NOW DAILY AT WWW.BENDSOURCE.COM

32

Voted Best House Cleaners 3 Years in a Row. Voted Best Eco-Friendly Business 2 Years in a Row. Voted Best Place to Work Under 50 Employees

We have service options for all your home and business needs SERVICES SERVICES WE WE PROVIDE: PROVIDE: •• • • •• • • • •• •• • •• ••

Post Post Construction Construction Cleaning Cleaning Demo and Debris Haul Off Commercial Cleaning Medical Office Office Cleaning Cleaning Medical School and Daycare Cleaning School and Daycare Cleaning Window Cleaning Window Pressure Cleaning Washing Pressure Washing House Cleaning Vacation Rental Cleaning House Cleaning Cleaning Rental Dumpster Rental Vacation Cleaning Pick up and Delivery for Wash, Dry Cleaning Dumpster Rental and Fold Laundry Service • Pick up and Delivery for Wash, Dry and Fold Laundry Service CLEANING PROGRAMS: • Concierge Packages

CLEANING MEMBERSHIP • Cleaning Membership Packages •PROGRAMS: Home Watch Packages • Concierge Packages • Cleaning Membership Packages • Home Watch Packages

Consistent cleaning and complete home support available with our Cleaning Membership program Packages start at $329/month

A+ Cleaning & Sanitation • CCB# 234707 541-833-7856 • Tsimon1023@gmail.com apluscleaningsanitation.com

EVENTS

TICKETS AVAILABLE AT

CALENDAR Mt. Bachelor

Men’s Yoga for Low Back & Hips Mobility Stop ignoring that stiff lower back

healing 432Hz crystal bowl, didgeridoo, Reiki, sound bath and breathwork experience. We open with gentle movement, tapping and Chi Kung, flowing into a guided breathwork session and sound bath skillfully supported with live didgeridoo, sitar, gongs, Koshi chimes, and more. Aaaahhhhh......namaste! Aug. 16, 6-7:15pm. Unity Spiritual Community of Central Oregon, 63645 Scenic Drive, Bend. Contact: 808-8870830. lisacswisher@gmail.com. $28.52.

Mini Yogi 6-Week Summer Series

The Lionsgate Activation Sound Journey Enjoy an extraordinary escape into

Each class is designed around a theme and includes age-appropriate yoga sequences, partner poses, songs, and mini obstacle course to help with kids’ social, mental, and physical development! Age 3-5. Fridays, 11am-Noon and Fridays, 11am-Noon Through Sept. 4. Free Spirit Yoga + Ninja + Play, 320 SW Powerhouse Drive, Suite 150, Bend. Contact: 541-241-3919. info@freespiritbend.com. $134.

NAMI Family Support Group Gain hope and develop supportive relationships. This group allows one’s voice to be heard and provides an opportunity for personal needs to be met. It encourages empathy, productive discussion and a sense of community. Second and Fourth Wednesday of every month, 5:30-6:30pm. First Presbyterian Church, 230 NE Ninth St., Bend. Contact: info@namicentraloregon.org. Free. NAMI Mental Health Peer Support Group: La Pine NAMI’s Peer Connection

Support Group is a free, peer-led support group for adults living with mental health challenges. You will gain insight from hearing the challenges and successes of others, and the groups are led by NAMI-trained facilitators who’ve been there. 1st & 3rd Tuesdays of each month. First and Third Tuesday of every month, 3pm. La Pine Senior Activity Center, 16450 Victory Way, La Pine. Contact: 541-316-0167. programs@namicentraloregon.org. Free.

New Moon Breathwork & Reiki Experi-

ence a guided breathwork practice infused with healing reiki, paired with the New Moon, to help let go of what no longer serves you and cultivate space for new beginnings. Aug. 12, 6:30-8:30pm. Tumalo Lavender, 19825 Connarn Road, Bend. Contact: tamar@tumalolavender.com. $45.

Outdoor Yoga Classes This event is an

all-levels Outdoor Yoga Class! Classes offering sun salutations and creative yoga sequences to spark heat, amp up endurance and build strength and flexibility. Mondays-Wednesdays-Fridays-Saturdays, 9:15-10:15am. Through Sept. 12. Free Spirit Yoga + Ninja + Play, 320 SW Powerhouse Drive, Suite 150, Bend. Contact: 541-241-3919. info@freespiritbend.com. $22.

Pain Free Posture - Celebrating More than 50 Years of The Vance Stance Tired of being in pain? Get to the root

of why you are tight & suffering. Learn to stand in gravity, not behind it. Offering a series of 5 1.5 hour sessions in a private studio for $175. You pick the date and time. Wednesdays, 121:30pm. EastSide Home Studio, 21173, Bend. Contact: 541-330-9070. vancebonner@juno. com. $175 for 5 class series.

tranquility with a harmonic journey of sound with Lynette and Kris during a sacred sound journey. Enter the Lionsgate Portal and experience an Intuitive Sacred Sound Journey of healing and renewal. Aug. 15, 10-11:15am. Hanai Center, 62430 Eagle Road, Bend. Contact: info@intuitivesacredsound.com. From $49.87.

Enjoy fresh air and mountain views at Mt. Bachelor’s Yoga in the Wild on Thursday afternoon.

Planet Dance Drop-in and try this weekly,

gently-guided movement & art practice for women & girls (under 14 with parent). Wear comfortable layers. No experience needed. Located at the park across the street from the DRRH Clubhouse in Three Rivers. Sundays, 11am-12:30pm. DRRH-Unit 9 Private Park, 17205 Milky Way Rd., Bend. Contact: 503-3673555. alisa@alooney.com. $8-$20 (suggested donation).

Prineville In-Person Group NAMI

Connection Peer Support Group is a free, peer-led support group for any adult who has experienced symptoms of a mental health condition. You will gain insight from hearing the challenges and successes of others, and the groups are led by trained leaders who’ve been there. First and Third Wednesday of every month, 3pm. Our Savior’s Lutheran Church, 695 N.W. Third St., Prineville. Contact: organize@ namicentraloregon.org. Free.

Redmond NAMI Family Support Group The National Alliance of Mental Illness

is having a Family Support Group. This is a peer-led group program for family members, caregivers, and loved ones of individuals living with mental illness. In these groups, family members can talk frankly about their challenges and help one another through their learned wisdom. Third and First Tuesday of every month, 6-7pm. Redmond Seventh Day Adventist Church, 945 SW Glacier Rd, Redmond. Contact: 541-316-0888. organize@ namicentraloregon.org. Free.

Rest as Resistance Slow down with

supported restorative postures, hands-on or hands-hovering Reiki, and guided rest. Close with space to share or simply be witnessed — because there is power in being together. Wednesdays, 6:15-7:30pm. Pine & Prism Wellness Collective, 856 NW Bond St., Suite 202, Bend. Contact: 918-671-5457. hello@ pineandprism.com. Pay what you can.

Rest in Rhythm This slow, floor-based

practice combines gentle movement, supported rest, guided meditation and live sound to help settle into the body and reconnect with breath. Designed to support the nervous system without urgency or expectation, Rest in Rhythm offers a softer start to the day. Thursdays, 7-8am. Pine & Prism Wellness Collective, 856 NW Bond St., Suite 202, Bend. Contact: 918-671-5457. hello@pineandprism.com. Pay what you can.

Reverie Healing: Mobile Reiki In a

world that rarely slows down, Reiki offers a chance to pause. Reverie Healing provides personalized sessions that support stress relief, emotional balance and nervous system restoration, helping you feel more grounded, present and connected to yourself. Mobile sessions available throughout Central Oregon. June 22-Sept. 2. Central Oregon, Countywide, . Contact: 971-266-3401. Paige.Bevando@ gmail.com. $85.

RISE Modern Wellness- New Ownership Celebration Join for RISE Modern

Wellness’s new ownership celebration! Enjoy a live DJ, BBQ, door prizes and exclusive $10 premium wellness services while exploring innovative therapies designed to support health, recovery and well-being. Aug. 15, 10am-4pm. Rise Modern Wellness, 320 Century Dr. Suite 400, Bend. Contact: 541-634-9247. bend@ risemodernwellness.com.

Rooted in Refuge Through long-held,

supported in postures, Rooted in Refuge invites one to slow down, soften, and reconnect with oneself through breath, awareness, and rest. With Erin’s warm and grounded guidance, this class offers space to tune inward and gently tend to the nervous system in community. Thursdays, 4:30-5:30pm. Pine & Prism Wellness Collective, 856 NW Bond St., Suite 202, Bend. Contact: 918-671-5457. hello@ pineandprism.com. Pay what you can.

The Mother Daughter Dynamic: A Retreat for Storytelling, Deep Connection and Generational Reflection

This 4-day & 3-night mother-daughter retreat offers a gentle pause from everyday life with quality time and space to reconnect with yourselves and each other. This retreat is designed to create more connection, clarity, ease, and compassion for one another through guided experiences, gentle movement, time in nature and reflection. Aug. 13. Green Rock Retreat, 15580 Southwest Fs 5480 Road, Culver. Contact: 847-707-6060. nicoleamanda@ greenrockretreat.com. $1350.00.

Wednesday Night Astrology Talk People root themselves in ancient teachings of both philosophy and astronomy to link to the astrology of modern times. Learn about the divine cosmic tapestry of time. Wednesdays, 4:30-6:30pm. Unity Spiritual Community of Central Oregon, 63645 Scenic Dr,, Bend. Contact: 657-349-9750. esoteric.butcher@gmail.com. $5-$20 Donation. Weekly Online Breathwork Weekly

online breathwork hosted from Bend, Oregon and open worldwide. Release stress, reset the nervous system, and reconnect to calm through guided Conscious Connected Breathing. Trauma-aware and choice-based. Wednesdays, 6:30pm. Through Dec. 30. Contact: confluencebreathbody@gmail.com. $22.

Yoga in the Park The best thing about summer is doing yoga outside! Happening the 1st and 3rd Wednesday of the month all summer long, 1 hour of fun, all levels donation-based yoga! 6pm-7pm in Pioneer Park. Bring your own yoga mat! Aug. 19, 6-7pm. Pioneer Park - Bend, 1565 NW Wall St, Bend. Contact: 5419052949. lisamichelletynan@gmail.com. $5-10 Donation. Yoga in the Wild Get rejuvenated and breathe in the fresh mountain air during the Yoga in the Wild series at Mt. Bachelor this summer season! Select evenings throughout the summer for a one-hour, all levels combination class of Vinyasa and Hatha yoga, taught by Mobility Duo. Thu, July 30, 4-5pm, Thu, Aug. 13, 2-3pm, Thu, Aug. 20, 2-3pm, Thu, Aug. 27, 2-3pm, Thu, Sept. 3, 2-3pm and Thu, Sept. 17, 2-3pm. Mt. Bachelor, 13000 Century Drive, Bend. Free.

33 VOLUME 30 ISSUE 33 / AUGUST 13, 2026 / THE SOURCE

and locked hips. Join Mondays at 5pm for a zero-fluff mobility session built for the male frame. Reset your nervous system, clear the compression and rebuild your physical baseline. No flexibility required—just show up and do the work. Email/text for Zoom link/address. Mondays, 5pm. Private Home, Deschutes River Woods, Bend. Contact: 541-668-7594. andrew@masculineembodiment.com. Donation.

Sonic Bliss ~ Breath& Soundbath Experience Breath gently and deeply into this

AUGUST 13, 2026 / BEND’S INDEPENDENT VOICE - NOW DAILY AT WWW.BENDSOURCE.COM 34

GUNG HO By Nic Moye

Gritty rock ‘n’ roll packed with soul streams. The Spokane native pours his heart into his blend of Americana grit, rock ‘n’ roll ballads. In his single, “Send for me,” St. John agonizes over his longing for a lost love. am Li

S t.

Jon

Nashville-based, rock and alt-country rambler Liam St. John will stop in Redmond on his nationwide on Aug. 15 after releasing his debut album, “Man of the North.” Rolling Stone described it as “a bluesy, powerful album that announces the Washington state songwriter as an artist you need to know.” His music has more than 100 million global

Liam St. John

Sat., Aug. 15, 6pm General Duffy’s Waterhole 404 SW Forest Ave., Redmond On eventbrite.com $33.85

Dance party on steroids since 2019. He performs under the name Mr. Danimals. He and DJ Giancarlo will also be at Dogwood Aug. 21.

Oli ve rD

r la ol

Berlin DJ and record producer Oliver Dollar has fired up international dance floors with a blend of soulful, disco-driven grooves. The electronic dance music scene has been steadily growing in Central Oregon, thanks to Daniel Fry of House of Sutiki, who's been bringing powerhouse DJs to the local scene

Oliver Dollar

Fri., Aug. 21, 9pm Dogwood at the Pine Shed 821 NE Second St., Bend dogwoodatthepineshed.com/ events/oliver-dolla

A rowdy, riff-heavy good time

T

The Texas Headhunters are, at the very least, an outlaw band. Ian Moore, Johnny Moeller and Jesse Dayton produced their latest record, “Rise and Shine,” in five rs unte days. It’s described as adh He s a packed with scorchex ing guitar, greasy shuffles, epic storytelling and a whole load of swagger. It drops Oct. 9, but they’ll be at the Tower in September with a preview. The trio is proud to be loud, sweaty, a little dangerous and a whole lot competitive, trying to outdo one another on stage. “We’re doing our own take on the whole Texas thing, and I think it’s fresh for a lot of listeners,” Dayton

said in a news release. “I really up my game when I play concerts with the band,” Moeller says. “Having been more of a side man for years, I’m stepping into a new role when I sing my songs. It’s a lot of fun.” Publicist Jen de la Osa says, “Pity the band that tries to follow these guys. They’ve burned up the stage behind them.” Texas Headhunters

Wed., Sep. 23 7:30pm Tower Theatre 835 NW Wall St., Bend towertheatre.org/events $17+

35 VOLUME 30 ISSUE 33 / AUGUST 13, 2026 / THE SOURCE

Raw, Heartfelt Country Musicians Put Central Oregon on their National Tours

AUGUST 13, 2026 / BEND’S INDEPENDENT VOICE - NOW DAILY AT WWW.BENDSOURCE.COM

36

m o c . r e g r bendbu Bend 1939 NE 3rd Street (541) 382-1914

Redmond 249 NW 6th Street (541) 316-5262

CONTENTS RECAP OF ALL WINNERS PG 89

BEST OF FOOD

WHO DOESN’T WANT TO LIVE AMONG THE STARS? It is time, after a great deal of anticipation and hard work, to pull open the pages on this year’s Best of Central Oregon. It is a great honor to work on this project. This issue, more than any other in the year, requires an enormous amount of staff collaboration and dedication to produce a truly remarkable compendium of what makes this community great. Growing up, many of us sat at the TV and watched Mr. Rogers regale us with tales of his neighborhood and the magical, stellar collection of characters that he interviewed every week to make us appreciate not celebrities, but the regular Joes and Janes that make your community special. And if you allow us to play Mr. Rogers for a week, you’ll give us the chance to share with our readers the small businesses and individuals who do a stellar job making our lives in Central Oregon the best it can be. This publication is not possible without the thousands of individuals who took time out of their busy week to let us know who makes their day sparkle. It is a heavy obligation to compile these votes. And, what is important to us here at The Source, is that this is an equitable democratic process. We believe in the American principle that everyone gets one vote and one vote only, and while some cracker-jack entities out there would try to game the system for likes and clicks, we continue to feel that the results should speak for themselves and let the heart emojiis fall where they may. This year’s contest includes new categories including Best Matcha, and Best Nachos among the food and drink categories, Best Architect Firm, Best Apparel and Goods Supplier and Best Handyman Services in the Goods and Services category, Best Shoe Store in Shopping, and in the People category, look for Best Local Artist, Best Rabble Rouser and Best Tattoo Artist. Also find Best Locals’ Hangout for Redmond, Sisters and Sunriver — all fun new additions to the Best of Central Oregon winners’ list. Cheers to all the winners! From all of us here at The Source, thank you supporting us in our 29th year. We are blessed to publish for this community and do not take lightly the responsibilities that we have to report and produce in this region. Our publication, like the town, continues to grow to match the greater number of readers that have made this place home. Whether you have been here one month or 10 years, please enjoy this guide to the stars that walk among us! — Aaron Switzer, publisher and founder

Best Nachos Best Mediterranean & Best Falafel Best Burrito

BEST OF DRINKS Best Matcha Best Sour Beer Best Local Brewer

45 47 49

BEST OF GOODS & SERVICES Best Local Home Builder & Best Restoration/Remodel Best Architect Firm Best Local Fundraiser & Nonprofit serving animal welfare & Best Thrift Store

51 53 55

BEST OF HEALTH & WELLNESS Best Fitness Studio Best Chiropractor

57 59

BEST OF PEOPLE Best Radio Personality Best Local Artist Best Local Band

65 67 69

BEST OF PLACES Best Senior Living Community Best Nonprofit Serving Basic Needs

71 73

BEST OF SHOPPING Best Bike Shop Best Shoe Store

75 77

BEST OF REDMOND Best New Food Cart in Redmond Best Lodging & Best Happy Hour & Best Bar in Redmond Best Coffee Shop in Redmond

BEST OF SISTERS Best Restaurant in Sisters

EDITOR IN CHIEF: Nicole Vulcan • MANAGING EDITOR: Nic Moye CONTRIBUTORS: Peter Madsen, Clayton Franke, Dallas Finn Calvert PAGE DESIGNER: Jennifer Galler • AD DESIGNER: Adrian Galler SALES DIRECTOR: Ashley Sarvis • EXECUTIVES: Ban Tat, Chad Barnes COPY EDITOR: Richard Sitts • INTERN: Abby Francis

39 41 43

BEST OF SUNRIVER Best Lunch in Sunriver

79 81 83

85

87

VOLUME 30 ISSUE 33 / AUGUST 13, 2026 / THE SOURCE

BEST OF BEND

37

VOTED BEST BREAKFAST 17 YEARS IN A ROW! 2010 – 2026

THANK YOU SO MUCH TO OUR WONDERFUL CUSTOMERS!

Best Bagel

Best Chef

1st Place - Big-O-Bagels Runner Up - Haven Bagel + Coffee

1st Place - Carlos Anthony - Hawkeye & Huckleberry Lounge Runner Up - Nate King + Bill Dockter - BOSA Food & Drink

GREATFOOD FOOD GREAT

Best Bakery 1st Place - Sparrow Bakery Runner Up - M's Bakery

Best BBQ

GREAT GREAT SETTING SETTING FUN FOR FUN FORKIDS KIDS

GREAT PEOPLE

AUGUST 13, 2026 / BEND’S INDEPENDENT VOICE - NOW DAILY AT WWW.BENDSOURCE.COM

38

Best of Food

GREATSERVICE SERVICE GREAT

GREAT BREAKFAST BREAKFAST

1st Place - Baldy's BBQ Runner Up - Runaround Sue Barbecue

1st Place - Chi Chinese & Sushi Bar Runner Up - Chan's Chinese Restaurant

Best Bowl

Best Dessert

1st Place - Active Culture Runner Up - Cafe Yumm!

1st Place - Bontá Gelato Runner Up - Elly's Ice Cream

Best Breakfast

Best Dinner

1st Place - McKay Cottage Runner Up - The Victorian Café

1st Place - Rancher Butcher Chef Runner Up - BOSA Food & Drink

Best Breakfast Burrito

Best Doughnut

1st Place - Bend Breakfast Burrito Runner Up - Burrito Sunrise

Best Breakfast Sandwich 1st Place - Farmer's Deli Runner Up - Sparrow Bakery

Best Brunch 1st Place - The Lemon Tree Runner Up - McKay Cottage

Best Burger 1st Place - Bend Burger Co. Runner Up - Dandy's Drive-In

Best Smash Burger 1st Place - Americana Runner Up - Blue Eyes Burgers & Fries

Best Burrito 1st Place - Los Jalapeños Runner Up - Super Burrito

Best Caterer

SERVING BREAKFAST & LUNCH EVERYDAY 7AM TO 2PM 62910 O.B. RILEY ROAD 541.383.2697 WWW.THEMCKAYCOTTAGE.COM

Best Chinese

1st Place - Bleu Bite Catering Runner Up - Luckey's Woodsman

1st Place - Richard's Donuts & Pastries Runner Up - The Dough Nut

Best Eggs Benedict 1st Place - The Victorian Café Runner Up - McKay Cottage

Best Falafel 1st Place - Kefi Fast Fresh Mediterranean Runner Up - Shimshon

Best Family Dining 1st Place - Jackson's Corner Runner Up - Sunriver Brewing

Best Fine Dining 1st Place - Ariana Restaurant Runner Up - Rancher Butcher Chef

Best Food Cart 1st Place - The Dominican Runner Up - Cotto

Best Food Cart Lot 1st Place - Dogwood at the Pine Shed Runner Up - The Podski

BEST OF BEND: FOOD

BEST NACHOS Luckey’s Woodsman

VOLUME 30 ISSUE 33 / AUGUST 13, 2026 / THE SOURCE

Clayton Franke

39

“ In particular, the pesto, aioli and beans create a ʻcraveable’ flavor that keeps people coming back ” — Jackson Higdon

Stevens Arian

Luckey’s Woodsman owner Jackson Higdon stands outside his food cart at the Basecamp lot behind Powderhouse in Bend

Owner Jackson Higdon says the “craveable” flavor of his “mountain nachos” was created partially by accident By Clayton Franke

S

ome masterpieces only come after years of dedication, practice and tinkering. Others are born out of pure necessity. That’s how Jackson Higdon describes the creation of his “mountain nachos,” which were voted the best nachos in Central Oregon by readers of the Source. Higdon started his mountain man-themed food truck, Luckey’s Woodsman, in the parking lot of the Sunrise Lodge at Mt. Bachelor six years ago. That year, Higdon says, the lodge had turned to a menu of Asian fusion and wasn’t selling chili-cheese fries — a classic that Higdon grew up eating at the mountain. To fill the gap, he started selling chili-cheese nachos. But space became limited when he took the truck to Silver Moon Brewing in Bend. It came down to chili and baked beans competing for a single steam well. So instead of chili, he decided he would top nachos with grilled pork and baked beans.

Little did he know, it would become his best-selling menu item. “I went ‘ah, good enough, who cares, it’s just a nacho,’” Higdon told the Source. “Everything else, I try and pour my life into and make it the best. This one I didn’t. I just pivoted, and it created this beautiful flavor.” The nachos come with pork carnitas, baked beans, queso, pico de gallo, roasted jalapeño, arugula pesto, chipotle aioli and cotija cheese. In particular, the pesto, aioli and beans create a “craveable” flavor that keeps people coming back, Higdon said. The homemade baked beans are modeled after Busch’s, but include a trifecta of organic black beans, pinto beans and kidney beans. He sees baked beans as the quintessential outdoorsy food.

Luckey’s Woodsman is modeled after a Willamette Valley restaurant his grandparents opened under the same name in 1956. Today, Higdon has a brick-and-mortar restaurant in Sisters, a food cart at the new Basecamp lot behind Powderhouse and an outdoor-adventure focused catering business. Lucky’s Woodsman also took home runner up awards for Best Caterer, Best Restaurant in Sisters and Best Lunch in Sisters. Luckey’s Woodsman 352 East Hood Ave., Unit B, Sisters luckeyswoodsman.com Runner Up: Active Culture

AUGUST 13, 2026 / BEND’S INDEPENDENT VOICE - NOW DAILY AT WWW.BENDSOURCE.COM 40

BEST OF BEND: FOOD

Kefi Fast Fresh Mediterranean Nick Stanitsas

Nick Stanitsas

Clayton Franke

Kefi Fast Fresh Mediterranean owner Nick Stanitsas dug into authentic Greek recipies to make his falafel, a process that takes three days.

Kefi’s build-your-own pitas and wraps earn Best Mediterranean five-peat By Clayton Franke

W

hen Nick Stanitsas opened a new Greek joint in a north Bend shopping center, his goal was to be voted Best Mediterranean restaurant in the Source’s annual readers poll. Today, as he looks to sell the restaurant, Stanitsas can confidently say he achieved what he set out to do and then some: Kefi Fast Fresh Mediterranean has won the Best Mediterranean category five years in a row. Not only that, but readers have voted his falafel the best in Central Oregon for two consecutive years. The accolades mean a lot, he said. “It’s the customers, it’s the people of Bend voting,” Stanitsas said. “It’s not someone who’s just a critic.” Stanitsas will soon step away from Kefi in order to support his wife and potentially start a family. He announced the sale in May, a little more than six years after he opened. It didn’t take long for the new restaurant owner to meet his first challenge: the COVID-19 pandemic. Lockdown began just two weeks after he opened his doors. Still, Stanitsas was able to stay afloat. And Source readers were impressed. Later that year, Kefi was voted the Best New Restaurant in Central Oregon, serving up build-your-own pitas, wraps and bowls filled with beef kabob, gyro meat, chicken,

shrimp or falafel and piled with veggies. “Kefi is just a very different concept,” Stanitsas said. “It’s really one of the only quick healthy places in town. There’s not many places where you can get a vegan meal in, like, two minutes.” In some ways, Kefi’s style of service is modeled like a mediterranean Chipotle, the popular burrito and bowl fast food chain. “I would go and sit at Chipotle for hours and just watch,” Stanitsas said. “I didn’t want to work at a Chipotle, but I like the concept, the idea of it.” Stanitsas grew up in San Diego on a Mediterranean diet. His father immigrated from Greece as a teenager, and his mother’s parents are also from Greece. “Kefi” is a Greek term for good spirits. Stanitsas said he’s made a point not to stray from authenticity. His award-winning falafel is one example. But when he first made the classic street food, he admits it was an afterthought. “I don’t really like falafel. It wasn’t really something I enjoyed eating,” he said. He spent a long time researching recipes, and came up with one he liked, he said. “We got some good feedback, but people that would come in that were Turkish or Israeli, people who would eat that food, they were like, ‘This isn’t falafel,’” he said. “That kind of lit a fire in me, like, ‘I’m

going to do it right then, and make sure it’s authentic.’ Being one of the only places in town, I want people to come here and be like, ‘We’re going to go there and get real falafel.’” Stanitsas said it takes three days to make falafel, between soaking the garbanzo beans for 24 hours, grinding in onion, garlic, parsley, cilantro and spices, and mixing it with a large dough hook before rolling golf-ball size pieces and freezing them. Lately, they’ve been going through 700 to 800 falafel balls per week — about 270 orders. “It’s super popular,” he said. Stanitsas said he wanted to remind people that Kefi isn’t closing, just changing ownership. “I’m just looking for the right person to take it over and continue what I started,” he said. Kefi Fast Fresh Mediterranean Mon-Fri 11am-8pm Sat-Sun 11:30am-8pm 20520 Robal Ln, Suite 120, Bend kefifresh.com Runner Up: Zorba The Greek

41 VOLUME 30 ISSUE 33 / AUGUST 13, 2026 / THE SOURCE

BEST MEDITERRANEAN AND BEST FALAFEL

Thank you for voting us best food cart!

Best Fried Chicken

42 AUGUST 13, 2026 / BEND’S INDEPENDENT VOICE - NOW DAILY AT WWW.BENDSOURCE.COM

Best of Food cont. 1st Place - The Tin Pig Runner Up - Wonderland Chicken Co.

Best Fries 1st Place - Americana Runner Up - Blue Eyes Burgers & Fries

Best Gluten-Free Menu 1st Place - Blissful Spoon Runner Up - Spork

BRINGING THE BOLD, SOULFUL FLAVORS OF THE DOMINICAN REPUBLIC TO BEND From marinated meats, boiled yuca and tostones to Dominican twists on American classics.

COME TASTE THE LOVE IN EVERY BITE!

Visit us at: 821 NE 2nd Street Bend, OR 97702 Dogwood at the Pineshed lot

MON: CLOSED TU-TH: 11 AM TO 8 PM FRI-SAT: 11 AM TO 8 PM+ SUN: CLOSED

Best New Restaurant - Open 1 year or less 1st Place - Casa Sur Runner Up - Rosemary & Fox

Best Patio Dining 1st Place - Pine Tavern Runner Up - Bend Brewing Co.

Best Pizza

Best Indian

1st Place - Pizza Mondo Runner Up - Pinky G's Pizzeria

1st Place - Taj Palace Runner Up - Spiceland

Best Sandwich/Deli

Best Italian 1st Place - BOSA Food & Drink Runner Up - Trattoria Sbandati

Best Japanese 1st Place - Yokocho Izakya Runner Up - Five Fusion

Best Lunch 1st Place - Valentine's Deli Runner Up - Jackson's Corner

Best Lunch Deal 1st Place - Pizza Mondo Runner Up - Toomie's Thai Cuisine

Best Mac n Cheese

1st Place - Valentine's Deli Runner Up - Cheba Hut

Best Seafood 1st Place - Sebastian's Seafood and Specialty Market Runner Up - Anthony's in the Old Mill

Best Sushi 1st Place - Kanpai Runner Up - Five Fusion

Best Tacos 1st Place - El Sancho Runner Up - Hablo Tacos

Best Thai 1st Place - Wild Rose Runner Up - Dear Mom Cafe

Best Vegan

1st Place - Brother Jon's Public House Runner Up - Wonderland Chicken Co.

1st Place - Toasty Runner Up - A Broken Angel

Best Mediterranean

Best Vegetarian

1st Place - Kefi Fast Fresh Mediterranean Runner Up - Zorba the Greek

1st Place - Active Culture Runner Up - Toasty

Best Mexican 1st Place - El Sancho Runner Up - El Rodeo

Best Nachos 1st Place - Luckey's Woodsman Runner Up - Active Culture

Best New Food Cart - Open 1 year or less 1st Place - Tekka Tiger Runner Up - PotLuck

Best Vietnamese 1st Place - Pho Viet & Cafe Runner Up - Dang’s Vietnamese Restaurant

Best Wings 1st Place - Fire on the Mountain Runner Up - Wonderland Chicken Co.

BEST OF BEND: FOOD

BEST BURRITO Los Jalapeños

“The main thing is, we prepare everything from scratch, we don’t buy any sauces from the store. Everything we make is fresh.” — Gonzalo Morales Nicole Vulcan

Los Jalapeños Owner Gonzalo Morales stands in front of his restaurant on Greenwood Avenue in Bend.

It’s a long time coming for the three-decade staple By Clayton Franke

W

hen Gonzalo Morales opened Los Jalapeños on Greenwood Avenue, Bend’s population was somewhere around 30,000 people, the Old Mill District shopping center was still just an old mill, and the town’s first roundabout hadn’t even been built yet. That was 1995. The restaurant has been serving authentic Mexican fare ever since. “I’ve seen every change, ups and downs,” Morales said. Morales said at some point he won a “Best Of” award from the Source but can’t remember when. Maybe 20 years ago? Now, he has another feather in his cap. The burritos from Los Jalapeños were voted best in Central Oregon by readers of the Source.

That award says something given the number of other restaurants and food trucks serving burritos, Morales said. “After seeing the competition, it just completely feels great,” Morales said. He hails from the state of Tlaxcala, Mexico, near Mexico City. His recipes are family recipes inspired by his mother, he said. “The main thing is, we prepare everything from scratch,” Morales said. “We don’t buy any sauces from the store. Everything we make is fresh.” Customers love the habanero sauce, he said. “The beans, we cook here,” he said. “These days, you can buy the beans ready. We don’t do that.” Online forums rave about large portions and reasonable prices at Los Jalapeños. Their house burritos

are $16.75, but there’s an option to get the “student” burrito with beef and homemade mole sauce for $13.50. A sign outside Los Jalapeños says, “Best Breakfast Burritos.” But for Morales, it’s not just the burritos that are the best in town. He said Los Jalapeños has some of the best margaritas and Chile relleno, as well. Los Jalapeños Mon-Fri 7:30am-8pm, Sat 8am-5pm 601 NE Greenwood Ave., Bend losjalapenosbend.com Runner Up: Super Burrito

VOLUME 30 ISSUE 33 / AUGUST 13, 2026 / THE SOURCE

Clayton Franke

43

Best of Drinks

AUGUST 13, 2026 / BEND’S INDEPENDENT VOICE - NOW DAILY AT WWW.BENDSOURCE.COM

44

Best Bar 1st Place - Dogwood at The Pine Shed Runner Up - The Flamingo Room

Best Bartender 1st Place - Buck Bales D&D Bar & Grill Runner Up - Ian - The Podski

Best Bloody Mary 1st Place - The Victorian Café Runner Up - Washington Dining & Cocktails

Best Boba 1st Place - Boba Tea Bend Runner Up - Teacupfuls

Best Brewer 1st Place - Tonya Cornett - UPP Liquids Runner Up - Nate Doss Bevel Brewing

Best Brewery 1st Place - Monkless Belgian Ales Runner Up - Van Henion Brewing

Best CBD Beverage 1st Place - ABLIS Runner Up - Boneyard Elixir

Best Cider 1st Place - Bend Cider Co. Runner Up - Tumalo Cider

Best Drive-Thru Coffee 1st Place - Porchlight Coffee Co. Runner Up - Backporch Coffee Roasters

Best Happy Hour 1st Place - Hawkeye & Huckleberry Lounge Runner Up - Lady Bird Cultural Society

Best Hazy 1st Place - Fresh Haze - Deschutes Brewing Runner Up - Because Science - Bend Brewing Co.

Best Hotel Bar 1st Place - Minnie's - The Westman Hotel Runner Up - ROAM Oxford Hotel

Best IPA 1st Place - RPM Boneyard Beer Runner Up - IPA - Van Henion Brewing

Best Light Beer 1st Place - Kolsch - Van Henion Brewing Runner Up - Helles - Van Henion Brewing

Best Local Coffee 1st Place - Thump Coffee Runner Up - Backporch Coffee Roasters

Best Margarita

Best Coffee Shop

1st Place - Hola! Runner Up - El Sancho

1st Place - Thump Coffee Runner Up - Backporch Coffee Roasters

Best Matcha

Best Cold Brew Coffee 1st Place - Thump Coffee Runner Up - Backporch Coffee Roasters

Best Dark Beer 1st Place - Black Butte Porter - Deschutes Brewery Runner Up - Cocoa Cow - Sunriver Brewing

1st Place - Little Cole Coffee Co. Runner Up - Backporch Coffee Roasters

Best Milkshake 1st Place - Dandy's Drive-In Runner Up - Blue Eyes Burgers & Fries

Best NA Beer 1st Place - Fresh Squeezed NA - Deschutes Brewery Runner Up - NoMo - Crux Fermentation Project

BEST OF BEND: DRINKS

BEST MATCHA Little Cole Coffee Co.

Nicole Vulcan

Nicole Vulcan

Little Cole Coffee Co

Nicole Vulcan

Best matcha? You betcha! Owner Cole Rodriquez also specializes in pour-over coffee at the midtown cart.

A cart specializing in coffee pour-overs is also standing out for its matcha creations By Nicole Vulcan

W

ith matcha gaining traction over coffee, especially among Gen Z, it was only a matter of time before this little ol’ paper’s readers’ poll got on board and added the powdered Japanese green tea beverage as an official category. Consider us caught up. The inaugural winner in our Best Matcha category is, like many local places that serve it, primarily a coffee shop — but not your average coffee shop. First, Little Cole Coffee Co. is more of a cart than a shop. Second, its specialty is pour-over coffee, a technique that owner Cole Rodriquez came to love during a decade and a half working in coffee in Australia, and later in their home state of Arizona. Whether it’s matcha or coffee, Rodriquez isn’t interested in giving patrons a rush job. The service is intentional, meant for customers to sit, relax and connect. With Little Cole’s cheery atmosphere, located among the food carts at Dogwood at the Pine Shed, it’s not difficult to sit a while — and the cart’s creations offer plenty to talk about. “Little Cole is a slow bar. Essentially, I want

people to come and just hang out with me, and educate people further on coffee and matcha and the amount of work that goes into it,” Rodriquez told the Source. “Whether it’s coffee or matcha — tracing back to the farmer and how that plant started and the processes in which it has to go through to get to this stage, and how many hands it’s touched.” To help convince this Gen Xer that the Zers are onto something, this coffee and tea aficionado served up three options: First, the Uncle Mike, featuring matcha, agua de coco, vanilla and cream: a sweet-but-not-too-sweet iced drink that never presented that grassy flavor I often fear among matcha drinks. That’s due to the quality of the matcha, Rodriquez said — not to be taken for granted in this moment of mass matcha consumption. “There’s the matcha craze going on, which created a shortage,” they said. “I like the knowledge. I like sharing and like educating people.” Next up was the Under the Mesquite, featuring matcha, brown sugar, roasted three-chile lemonade and honey. If you’re in the mood for a spicy

margarita, but A., it’s morning and B., day drinking isn’t in the cards, this should be a go-to. Playing with flavors that could make great mocktails is one of Little Cole’s signature moves. Finally, to get a real taste of the shop’s matcha, sourced from Nekohama Matcha company, there comes the Matcha Water, featuring the tea — skillfully whisked — over ice and water. Those are just a few of the dozen or so ways to try matcha at Little Cole Coffee Co. “I want people to come and have a chat and look around and chat with other people,” Rodriquez said. “Take the time for yourself here, and allow me to make you something great.” Little Cole Coffee Co. Thu-Sun 8am-2pm At Dogwood at the Pine Shed 821 NE 2nd Ave., Bend Instagram @littlecolecoffeeco

Runner Up: Backporch Coffee Roasters

VOLUME 30 ISSUE 33 / AUGUST 13, 2026 / THE SOURCE

Little Cole Coffee Co

45

AUGUST 13, 2026 / BEND’S INDEPENDENT VOICE - NOW DAILY AT WWW.BENDSOURCE.COM

46

Thank You, Central Oregon. WE ARE HONORED TO BE NAMED BY THE SOURCE READERS.

Best Cocktail “ e Beetnik”

A huge thank you to our incredible community of local business owners, employees, musicians, families, and guests who make this place unforgettable. We're proud to celebrate these wins together

CO N G R AT U L AT I O N S T O O U R A M A Z I N G F O O D C A R T W I N N E R S !

BEST FOOD CART

BEST MATCHA

BEST MEDITERRANEAN

821 NE 2ND STREE T•BEND, OREGON 97701 WWW.DOGWOODAT THEPINESHED.COM

BEST OF BEND: DRINKS

BEST SOUR BEER Sea Plague

Jennifer Galler

Jennifer Galler

“We try to incorporate a little bit of Oregon into every single beer. There’s local agriculture in every beer.” — Michael Firth

Small brewery Funky Fauna gets its funk on with uniquely tasty beers

The two-person team of Michael Firth and Danielle Burns run one of Central Oregon's more unique breweries.

By Richard Sitts

T

ucked away in a quiet, shady block on Second Street in the Makers District, adventurous beer drinkers will find Funky Fauna, the home of truly unique brews, owned and operated by Michael Firth and Danielle Burns. The front of the house exudes a cool, dark vibe despite large windows that let in plenty of light. Outside, there are welcoming picnic tables under shade trees, making for a great spot for summer sipping. Inside, visitors will find a groove of cool tunes playing over the intercom. There’s a large TV screen playing skateboarding videos or classic, kitschy movies rented from the nearby Blockbuster. For Funky Fauna’s winning sour, Sea Plague, the main ingredients are hops, yeast and malt, all from Oregon, and seaweed and wasabi root from over on the Oregon coast, and ginger, lime and sea salt. Sea Plague was born out of a collaboration with a Portland heavy metal band, Sunrift, that has since disbanded, according to Firth. The wild ales age from one to four months in bulbous oak barrels called foeders (pronounced FOODer). Then they sit on top of fruit for another month

before hitting the taps or being canned. By comparison, your typical IPA ages for about two weeks, Firth says. Funky Fauna has been in business for about five years, the first three years in Sisters before moving to Bend. Before that, Firth says he was a home brewer for about 15 years. He says his main philosophy is producing terroir-driven beers made with all local ingredients that can only be made here. “Keeping it local and supporting local farms” is part of the mission, he adds. “We try to incorporate a little bit of Oregon into every single beer. There’s local agriculture in every beer.” Funky Fauna beers are available around Oregon and with limited self-distribution in Washington, with no plans to expand any further. While Firth handles the brewing side of the operation, Burns takes care of the marketing and produces the unique graphics that fit so well with the eccentric brews. “I get to do the fun stuff, the nonheavy lifting,” she says. Beers are made in small batches and are rarely brewed twice. Four to six wild ales are in process at any given time, and the brewery aims to offer four to six new releases each month to keep its 23 taps

flowing. The backbone of Funky Fauna’s brews is its native wild yeast. “We feed it, keeping it happy and active in each of our oak barrels,” says Firth. Bend and the rest of Central Oregon in general tend to lean heavily toward IPAs, which provides Funky Fauna with a niche outlet offering a completely different tasting experience. But the brewery does offer its own IPAs on a smaller scale. “We try to have something for everybody,” Firth says. And good brews take time. “I would love to give our beers more time. An extra three months would be awesome,” he says. But visitors don’t have to wait that long. Funky Fauna is waiting and ready to pour your new favorite wild ale. Funky Fauna Tue-Fri 3-8pm, Sat 1-9pm, Sun 1-6pm 1125 NE 2nd St., Bend funkyfaunabeer.com/ Runner Up: Ching Ching (Bend Brewing Co.)

VOLUME 30 ISSUE 33 / AUGUST 13, 2026 / THE SOURCE

Funky Fauna

47

AUGUST 13, 2026 / BEND’S INDEPENDENT VOICE - NOW DAILY AT WWW.BENDSOURCE.COM

48

THANK YOU FOR VOTING US

BEST LIQUOR STORE! WE LOVE PROVIDING YOU WITH THE LARGEST SELECTION IN CENTRAL OREGON!

740 NE 3RD ST SUITE 5, BEND

�

(541) 797-0028

3RDSTREETBEVERAGE.COM

BEST OF BEND: DRINKS

Best of Drinks

1st Place - Jubelale - Deschutes Brewery Runner Up - Red Chair - Deschutes Brewery

49

Tonya Cornett — UPP Liquids

Best Sour 1st Place - Sea Plague - Funky Fauna Artisan Ales Runner Up - Ching Ching - Bend Brewing Co.

Best Specialty Cocktail 1st Place - Sayuri Sour - Five Fusion Runner Up - The Beetnik - Dogwood at The Pine Shed

Photos by Jennifer Galler

Best Specialty Mocktail 1st Place - Calm the F Down - San Simón Runner Up - Cool Hand Luke - Hawkeye & Huckleberry Lounge

Best Sports Bar 1st Place - The Hideaway Runner Up Sidelines Sports Bar & Grill

Best Smoothie/ Juice Bar 1st Place - Mother's Juice Cafe Runner Up - Fix & Repeat

Best Wine Bar 1st Place - Portello Lounge Runner Up Amaterra Kitchen + Social Club

Winning Best Brewer is the latest in a slate of beer-making awards for her team at UPP By Peter Madsen

P

recious little is handed to anyone in Central Oregon’s robust brewing scene that isn’t hard-won. In roughly two years, Tonya Cornett went from being laid off from the Canadian cannabis company that owns 10 Barrel Brewing, to winning a slew of awards for the beers she helped create as a co-owner at UPP Liquids, the brewery formerly known as Immersion Brewing. Those beers, which include two sours, two stouts, a kölsch and a session mead, won five total medals at the Oregon Beer Awards. UPP Liquids also won Small Brewery of the Year and Best New Brewery. While the state’s beermakers recognize Cornett’s work at UPP, the fact that she has now won Best Local Brewer on the Source’s Best of Central Oregon readers’ poll must indicate that Bend beer hounds are excited about Cornett’s recipes, as well. Making UPP a destination for locals and tourists alike was an initial goal for the brewery, and it seems they’re well on their way. “I’m lucky to call many brewers in town my friends. We all work together to make Bend a beer destination,” Cornett told the Source by email. “Winning this award means that people are talking about UPP, including other breweries. Every day, someone walks in and says another brewery recommended they stop in. I can’t think of a bigger compliment.” Cornett is the first female brewer to win the Source’s Best Brewer award.

“There are many women brewers in the industry, silently working hard, making the best beer they can, trying to get noticed,” Cornett said. “I hope I have been an inspiration to other women over the years. There is no reason a woman can’t be successful in this field.” An aspect that Cornett enjoys about the UPP brewery/ taproom space, located in the Box Factory, is the proximity regulars have with the brewers, whose tanks are located near the bar. To stoke conversation, Cornett and her crew established a mug club early on. “It was amazing being in the brewery and hearing chatter from the bar — we had our first regulars!” Cornett said. “We’ve gotten to know them over the past year and they have become part of the UPP family. I love hearing about what they love on the beer list or what they would like to see come back.” UPP Liquids

550 SW Industrial Way #185, Bend Uppliquids.com Sun-Thurs 11:30am-9pm Fri & Sat 11:30am-10pm

Runner Up: Nate Doss — Bevel Craft Brewing

VOLUME 30 ISSUE 33 / AUGUST 13, 2026 / THE SOURCE

Best Seasonal Beer

BEST LOCAL BREWER

Best of Goods and Services AUGUST 13, 2026 / BEND’S INDEPENDENT VOICE - NOW DAILY AT WWW.BENDSOURCE.COM

50

Best Architect Firm 1st Place - Crabtree Architecture + Design Runner Up - Neal Huston & Associates Architects

Best Auto Body Repair 1st Place - Central Oregon Auto Body Runner Up - Precision Body & Paint

Best Auto Repair 1st Place - Import Performance Runner Up - Happy Danes Auto Repair

Best Bank Branch 1st Place - OnPoint Credit Union Runner Up - Wells Fargo

Best Barbershop 1st Place - L&K Barber Shop Runner Up - Blade & Barrel Barbershop

Best Branded Apparel & Goods Supplier 1st Place - Accolades Engraving Runner Up - N the Zone Ink

Best Dog Training

Best Eco-Friendly Business 1st Place - A+ Cleaning & Sanitation Runner Up - Central Oregon Locavore

Best Hair Salon 1st Place - Lemon Drop Salon Runner Up - Salon June

Best Handyman Services 1st Place - Ace Handyman Services Runner Up - Handy Home Hero

Best Heating & Cooling 1st Place - Custom Plus Heating & A/C Runner Up - Bend Heating & Sheet Metal

Best House Cleaning Services 1st Place - A+ Cleaning & Sanitation Runner Up - JHB Cleaning Services

Best Landscape Service 1st Place - Bluestone Gardens & Landscape Runner Up - Venable Tree Service & Preservation

1st Place - Dancin' Woofs Runner Up - The Kind Canine

Best Lash Services

Best Esthetician Services

1st Place - Groovy Lash Runner Up - Wilderluxe Beauty

1st Place - EsthetixMD Runner Up - Megan Gerding Aesthetics & Nutrition

Best Florist 1st Place - Flowers by Eryn Runner Up - Donner Flower Shop

Best Golf Course 1st Place - Widgi Creek Golf Club Runner Up - Juniper Preserve

Best Law Firm 1st Place - High Desert Law Runner Up - Bryant, Lovlien and Jarvis

Best Local Farm 1st Place - Rainshadow Organics Runner Up - Well Rooted Farms

Best Local Fundraiser 1st Place - HSCO - Tuxes and Tails Runner Up - KIDS Center - Cork & Barrel

BEST OF BEND: GOODS AND SERVICES

Sierra James Construction

51 VOLUME 30 ISSUE 33 / AUGUST 13, 2026 / THE SOURCE

BEST LOCAL HOME BUILDER & BEST RESTORATION /REMODEL

The Sierra James Build Team.

Photos by Nic Moye

Also winners, the Sierra James Restoration Team.

Adapting to meet the housing needs of the future By Nic Moye

S

ource readers voted Sierra James Construction the Best of Central Oregon in two categories this year. The Restoration team has also taken top honors the past few years. “I’m proud of our teams and proud of our growth. We’re going into our 10th year,” says Charley Roberts, partner and chief financial officer of Sierra James Construction. His business partner is Jesse Rowden. The company has more than 200 projects currently underway and about 60 employees. The restoration side accounts for 35% of the company’s business, but takes a larger team than the design/ build side. Water and fire damage are the most common restoration projects. “We’re one of the few, if not only company that’s vertically integrated, or completely enabled to perform big fire jobs,” Roberts explains. “So, someone’s house burns partially, say 40%, we’ll go in and remediate the existing structure that’s salvageable. We can eliminate the odor, and then we can rebuild the house completely because we’re builders first and foremost. We probably have five fire jobs going at any given time (including) cleaning up contents and saving people’s family heirlooms. There’s a whole room devoted to cleaning dishes, vases, musical instruments, records, books, things that may not be financially valuable, but they’re very sentimental.” Some of the most meaningful builds, Roberts says, involve clients who have very little. “In disaster restoration, our client comes from anywhere. It

could be a trailer in La Pine that has snow load issues and being creative to figure out how we’re going to get their underinsured trailer repaired so they can get back in their house is very gratifying to the disaster restoration side. We often encounter people that may get a $15,000 check from their insurance company, and that’s the most money they’ve ever held in their life, and it’s going to take more than that to get their house where it needs to go. Our project managers are really creative about how to get that done.” In addition, Sierra James builds a lot of ADUs, an area Roberts is hoping the company can expand. “We’re really interested in cottage communities,” he says. “Our marketing department and our architect have gone to great lengths to understand the ADU compliance issues for every jurisdiction from La Pine to Sisters to Bend. Every governmental agency has a different code.” Sierra James designed the four pre-approved ADU plans offered through the City of Bend, which streamlines the permitting process and saves on the cost of building a small unit. Roberts says the future in homebuilding is addressing the needs of the aging population. Oregon now has more residents over age 65 than it does under age 18. The median age in Deschutes County is 43. “Accessibility is the future of our design-build focus for the next 10 years. That’s what the demographics say we should be building. That’s what we want to build. We believe in universal design,

accessible, but not looking like what people think ADA looks like… There are a lot of tricks to make great design not look like it’s accessible.” Sierra James recently partnered with LiveAble Homes, which specializes in accessible, adaptable design for people of all ages and abilities. Roberts says that partnership helped his company learn how to hold difficult conversations: “How to talk to people about designing for their future without offending them, without scaring them, without being doom and gloom about it, because not a lot of people want to talk about their future inability to navigate their home physically…but it’s a worthy conversation.” Even with thousands of home builds and restorations under its belt, the foundation of the company’s success, says Roberts, boils down to the workers. “I have really smart people here and they’re all adaptable. We try to pay people well enough that they can actually afford to live in Bend. That’s my biggest pride in this company.” Sierra James Construction 747 SE Business Way #4, Bend 541-306-3775 sierrajamesconstruction.com Runner Up Home Builder: Hayden Homes Runner Up Restoration/Remodel: Black Diamond Woodworks

AUGUST 13, 2026 / BEND’S INDEPENDENT VOICE - NOW DAILY AT WWW.BENDSOURCE.COM 52

BEST OF BEND: GOODS AND SERVICES Best of Goods and Services

Crabtree Architecture + Design

1st Place Sierra James Construction Runner Up Hayden Homes

Photos by Nicole Vulcan

Best Mani / Pedi 1st Place - Three Sisters Nails Runner Up Crescent Nails

Best Mortgage Company 1st Place - A2Z Home Loans Runner Up - Boss Mortgage

Best Painting Company 1st Place - SmileA-Mile Painting Runner Up Webfoot Home Improvements

Best Pet Boarding 1st Place - Pet Paradise Runner Up - Happy Tales Pet Resort

Best Pet Grooming 1st Place - Dirty Dog Grooming Runner Up - Muddy Paws Bathhouse

Best Plumbing 1st Place Severson Plumbing Runner Up - Roth Home

Best Property Management 1st Place - A Superior Property Management Co. Runner Up - Lava Ridge Property Management

Designing some of Bend’s most popular hangouts By Nicole Vulcan

B

est Architect Firm is a new category in our Best of Central Oregon readers’ poll for 2026, and based on Central Oregon’s explosive growth — and the wealth of beautiful new buildings that come with that growth — the category definitely faced some stiff competition. You might not know Crabtree Architecture + Design by name, but chances are you’ve walked into one of its projects. Among its recent work, Crabtree designed the Flamingo Room and San Simón — both frequent winners in the Best Bar category — along with Dear Irene, the retail store Jack and Millie and the new Patio World space. After growing up in Eugene and spending six years in the Navy, owner and architect Greg Crabtree studied architecture at California Polytechnic State University. Crabtree then started his career in the field in that area before making the move back to Oregon — this time to Bend in 2017. As he got the firm established, Crabtree began taking on more projects, which allowed him to grow the firm. “Slowly, we kind of got busier and busier, and eventually hired one and two and three now, and four of us,” Crabtree told the Source. Now, the company occupies a bright space on Arizona Avenue, just steps from the bustling Box Factory.

Crabtree credits the win as Best Architect Firm to his team’s ability to work closely with the community. Having designed all three of the Bend bars owned by Brian Trottier (of San Simon, Flamingo Room and Olvi), Crabtree said he continues to enjoy working with local businesses most, helping them refine their vision into something that works, and makes an impression, too. “They might have a really — like in his case, a very interesting eye on what his vision is,” Crabtree said. “We just like to work together. I think collaborating with people, from engineers to owners to builders, and trying to have that full kind of design-build team effort is where we shine.” And another perk? Getting to hang out in a super-cool space you helped to bring into the world. “I like small commercial — bars and restaurants are super fun. You get to go there afterwards and enjoy it.” Crabtree Architecture + Design 616 NW Arizona Ave., Ste. 2, Bend crabtreearch.com Runner Up: Neal Huston & Associates Architects

53 VOLUME 30 ISSUE 33 / AUGUST 13, 2026 / THE SOURCE

Best Local Home Builder

BEST ARCHITECT FIRM

AUGUST 13, 2026 / BEND’S INDEPENDENT VOICE - NOW DAILY AT WWW.BENDSOURCE.COM

54

Thank you Central Oregon for sharing your dogs with us since 1999! Our Hearts are Full! Thank you for your continued trust in us for training with you and your dogs. We love building relationships, skills, and enriching lives-one wagging tail at a time! Compassionately caring for both ends of the leash.

D O G D AYC A R E & T R A I N I N G C E N T E R Central Oregon wins our votes for being “The Best Dog People 2026”

BIG SHOUT-OUT to our friends at The Kind Canine for runner-up! We positively LOVE what you do, too!

63027 Lower Meadow Dr, Ste D, Bend • 541-312-3766 • dancinwoofs.com

BEST OF BEND: GOODS AND SERVICES Best of Goods and Services

Humane Society of Central Oregon

1st Place - Bend Premier Real Estate Runner Up Cascade Hasson Sotheby's International Realty

Photos by Nic Moye

Best Restoration/ Remodel 1st Place - Sierra James Construction Runner Up Black Diamond Woodworks

Best Roofing Company 1st Place - Scott's Roofing Runner Up CH Roofing & Construction

Best Solar Company 1st Place - Sunlight Solar Runner Up - e2 Solar

Best Tattoo Studio 1st Place - Adored Tattoo Boutique Runner Up Monolith Tattoo Studio

Best Veterinary Practice 1st Place - Bend Veterinary Clinic Runner Up Riverside Animal Hospital

Best Waxing 1st Place - Radiant Waxing Runner Up - Sage & Honey Spa

HSCO wins the triple crown (again) for its dedication to saving animals By Nic Moye

T

he Humane Society of Central Oregon has a long history of winning multiple “Best of Central Oregon” categories, which shelter managers say is a tribute to the public. “This community cares so deeply about animals and I am just astounded every time the community shows up in so many ways. We see that by people coming in to adopt animals. We see it by people bringing in donations, not only monetary donations but donations for our animals,” says HSCO Director of Philanthropy and Communications, Bekka Austin. About 1,400 animals are adopted each year through the shelter, which includes dogs, cats and small animals like rabbits, gerbils and guinea pigs. Its Veterinary Outreach Clinics also travel around Central Oregon. The nonprofit is celebrating its 65th anniversary, but the road there was no easy feat. “Since 1961 we’ve gone through some rough times, but the board and the staff and everyone has just been so committed that we provide such essential and vital services to the community that we worked our butts off to make sure that we could raise the funds and keep the doors open,” says HSCO Director of Community Partnerships Lynne Ouchida. She credits the more than a decade of wins as Best Nonprofit, Best Fundraiser (Tuxes and Tails ) and Best Thrift Store to the relationships and reputations HSCO has nurtured over the years. “People know that we’re here to support the animals and their owners. I think we’ve been able to establish a lot of trust within that time,” Ouchida adds. To survive financially, the shelter relies on fundraisers, like Tuxes and Tails and the Pup Crawl. The thrift store on SE Third Street has also provided a lifeline, bringing in $1.4 million a year in gross revenue.

Ouchida says the store has a similar mission — rehoming something that still has value. Volunteers play a significant role in caring for animals at the shelter, sorting items at the thrift store and acting as foster homes. HSCO is also involved with mass rescues, defined as 10 or more animals, usually in partnership with law enforcement. The shelter is always in need of more foster families. Training and supplies are provided. It’s also hosting an open house on Aug. 29 for its annual Clear the Shelters campaign. “We’re a voice for the animals and we’re a place for the people to turn to for those animals who don’t have a voice,” Ouchida says. Humane Society of Central Oregon Tue-Sat 10am-5:30pm 61170 SE 27th St., Bend 541-382-3537 hsco.org HSCO Thrift Store Daily 10am-6pm 61220 S. Highway 97, Bend 541-388-3448 Runner Ups: Best Nonprofit Serving Animal Welfare: Street Dog Hero Best Fundraiser: Kids Center: Cork & Barrell Best Thrift Store: REgroup Thrift Store

55 VOLUME 30 ISSUE 33 / AUGUST 13, 2026 / THE SOURCE

Best Real Estate Company

BEST LOCAL FUNDRAISER & BEST NONPROFIT SERVING ANIMAL WELFARE & BEST THRIFT STORE

AUGUST 13, 2026 / BEND’S INDEPENDENT VOICE - NOW DAILY AT WWW.BENDSOURCE.COM 56

BEST OF BEND: HEALTH AND WELLNESS Best of Health and Wellness

1st Place - Bend Family Dentistry Runner Up Skyline Dental

57

Altius Pole Studio

Photos by Dallas Finn Calvert

Best Alternative Health Clinic 1st Place Hawthorn Healing Arts Center Runner Up Inspired Health

Best Chiropractic Clinic

After initially refusing to try the practice, Altius owner Emily Aygun says it has changed her life.

1st Place Wellness Doctor Runner Up Armington Chiropractic

Best Day Spa 1st Place - Jinsei Spa Runner Up - Anjou Spa

Best Dermatology Group 1st Place - Bend Dermatology Clinic Runner Up - Juniper Dermatology

Best Fitness Studio 1st Place - Altius Pole Studio Runner Up - Barre3

Best Gym 1st Place - SNAP Fitness Runner Up - Larkspur Community Center

Best Health & Recreation Facility 1st Place - Juniper Swim & Fitness Center Runner Up - Larkspur Community Center

Altius owner says offering a safe, welcoming “third space” is vital By Dallas Finn Calvert

E

mily Aygun totally understands that people might not know what to expect when they walk into Altius Pole Studio, named the 2026 Best Fitness Studio in the Source readers’ poll. She recalls feeling the exact same way when she attended her first pole-dancing class. It was a moment that changed her life. A mathematics major at San Jose State University, she was going to school and working as a math tutor when a friend invited her to attend a pole class. “I told her, ‘Absolutely not,’” Aygun recalls with a laugh. “I was never a sports person growing up. I had never worked out before, and I wasn’t a gym goer, but she convinced me after a couple of times to go with her. I remember my very first class. I drove into the parking lot, and I couldn’t find where it was located, so I started panicking and freaking out because I was so nervous about going. I ended up calling the place in tears. I remember the instructor walked out, and I saw her head peek out the door. For my first class, I just sat and watched this community of men and women of all different ages and sizes and shapes and abilities cheer each other on. It was mind-blowing to me, and I fell in love from that class forward. I loved it so much that I wanted to get more into it and wanted to understand it more, and it became my life.” There were no certifications to be had as a pole-dancing instructor back then, so she did the next best thing she could think of and eschewed mathematics for kinesiology and became a personal trainer and corrective exercise specialist. However, her goal was always to open her own pole-dancing studio to introduce others to the workout and community she adores. “What I feel like Altius is, and does, is provide this third space that I feel has become so important since

Covid when we were all stuck in our houses,” she said. “That’s actually when we did our build-out, was during Covid when the gyms shut down. Having had to be, myself, in my house with my kids and husband, I knew I needed a third space, and I realized how important third spaces were in a world where I feel like that’s not happening as much anymore. Altius is more than just a workout. We often say that you don’t really feel like you’re even working out while you’re here, but then you wake up the next morning and you’re, like, ‘Oh, yeah, I did.’” Aygun said all Altius instructors have undergone trauma-informed training, and they’re all ready to welcome anyone who comes through the door. Creating a safe, supportive, collaborative environment is the goal. “Fitness can be intimidating,” she added. “I think that there’s a lot of noise out there. I know from myself that I went from the couch to pole dancing, and I saw that fostering community where we’re celebrating each other. I think the hardest part about starting any sort of fitness journey is the unknown. You don’t know what’s behind that door. Is it going to be a really hard class? Am I going to succeed? Am I going to fail? Am I going to look stupid? These are all things that I think people starting a fitness journey think about. We have a saying here that the hardest part about starting pole dancing is walking through the door.” Altius Pole Studio 20370 Empire Ave., Unit C 3, Bend 541-275-2810 altiuspolestudio.com Runner Up: Barre3

VOLUME 30 ISSUE 33 / AUGUST 13, 2026 / THE SOURCE

Best Adult Dental Group

BEST FITNESS STUDIO

AUGUST 13, 2026 / BEND’S INDEPENDENT VOICE - NOW DAILY AT WWW.BENDSOURCE.COM

58

real therapy for real people OUR CORE VALUES Kindness Compassion Integrity Humility Teamwork Humor Hunger for Knowledge Accountability

Thank You for voting us

Best Therapy/Counseling Practice 541.633.4591 296 SW Columbia, Suite A, Bend, OR 97702

WE RISE BY LIFTING EACH OTHER

INTRO MONTH–$49 We are Bend’s longest standing yoga studio, offering yoga classes, workshops, teacher trainings, massage and Ayurveda. Class styles for all levels and abilities. 1135 NW Galveston Avenue, Bend

namaspa.com

BEST OF BEND: HEALTH AND WELLNESS Best of Health and Wellness

1st Place - Dejohn Bodywork Runner Up Intuitive Touch

Wellness Doctor

Photos by Abby Francis

Best Medical / Cosmetic Enhancement Services 1st Place EsthetixMD Runner Up - Elite Medi Spa

Best Medical Group 1st Place - High Lakes Health Care Runner Up Summit Health

Best Pediatric Dental Group 1st Place Deschutes Pediatric Dentistry Runner Up Pediatric Dental Associates

Best Pediatric Medical Group 1st Place - Central Oregon Pediatric Associates Runner Up - Mosaic Community Health Pediatrics

Best Therapy/ Counseling Practice 1st Place - Drishti Mental Health Runner Up Rimrock Trails Treatment Services

Best Yoga Studio 1st Place Namaspa Runner Up Groove Yoga

From left, Brittany Violette, Matt Tompkins, Jason Kremer and Cassie Kremer.

Two decades in, Wellness Doctor continues to center its philosophy in getting to the root cause of pain By Abby Francis

W

ellness Doctor’s win of Best Chiropractor comes in a very timely matter – the business just celebrated its 20th birthday. When I popped in to talk to the founder of Wellness Doctor, Jason Kremer, he was called from his office by a friendly yell down the hallway, “Hey Dr.K!” This pretty much sums up the atmosphere within the office – an overall palpable energy. While others may operate from a disease-focused approach, he says, Kremer bases his business on promoting the wellness of the community. During his time in university, Kremer was studying cardiac rehab but switched to a chiropractic focus in grad school. “In the first semester they were asking students, ‘What made you want to be a chiropractor?’” he said. “Everyone had a chiropractic experience to back it up, but I had never been to a chiropractor before.” Kremer raised his hand and said that the chiropractic work did interest him but beyond that, the nutrition, the rehab, the connection with natural health care was a no-brainer for him. Kremer comes from an extensive athletic exercise background. He says this niche is what makes him stand out in the health care industry, a perfect fit for Bend’s active lifestyle. “Keeping healthy people staying active, injury free and offering a lot of therapeutic modalities…we offer a lot under one umbrella from a natural health care standpoint,” he said.

Another part of his practice is co-treating. Kremer collaborates with other naturopaths including his wife, Cassie Kremer, who works as a nutritionist at the Wellness Doctor. Kremer also has a steady list of connections to acupuncturists, personal trainers, even foot and ankle specialists. “Just putting myself in my patients’ shoes,” is his recipe for success. “You don’t want this treatment to drag out; you want to get better and back in your life and then maybe [we won’t have to] see you for a while,” Kremer said. Kremer’s goal at his practice is to treat the whole person. He gave an example of this instance. “[Someone] might present with a sore elbow or shoulder, but then on intake they also have digestive issues,” he said. “I just don’t like to miss anything.” In the past 20 years Kremer has taken on a handful of associates at the Wellness doctor, including Matt Thompkins, also a chiropractor, as the most recent addition. “He’s got just so much energy and compassion, and I couldn’t imagine anybody else as an associate,” Kremer said. “We just feed off each other.” Wellness Doctor 61555 Parrell Rd., Bend 541-318-1000 bendwellnessdoctor.com Runner Up: Armington Chiropractic

59 VOLUME 30 ISSUE 33 / AUGUST 13, 2026 / THE SOURCE

Best Massage Therapist

BEST CHIROPRACTOR

AUGUST 13, 2026 / BEND’S INDEPENDENT VOICE - NOW DAILY AT WWW.BENDSOURCE.COM 60

2026_Sourc-4PageSpread.pdf

1

8/6/26

7:43 PM

CENTRAL OREGON’S PREMIERE

ARTS AND CRAFTS SHOW IS HERE.

Central Oregon’s premiere juried art tradition is back. Wander through a vibrant open-air gallery and connect one-on-one with over 130 independent fine artists and master craftspeople showcasing their latest original creations.

AUGUST 28 TO 30 RIVERBEND PARK, BEND, OREGON Preview this year's featured artists at artinthehighdesert.com.

2026_Sourc-4PageSpread.pdf

2

8/6/26

7:43 PM

SCHEDULE Friday, August 28th: 5pm to 8pm Saturday, August 29th: 10am to 6pm Sunday, August 30th: 10am to 4pm

LOCATION Riverbend Park 799 SW Coloumbia Street Bend, Oregon 97702

There is a reason art lovers and vacationers cross the country to be here every single summer. Art in the High Desert isn't just an event—it’s a national destination, consistently ranked among the top 25 selling art shows in the entire United States!

Our independent jury reviews hundreds of applications to select only the most exceptional creators. That means you get direct, personal access to elite, museum-quality original work right here in our own backyard. Whether you are looking to invest in your very first statement piece, upgrade your home gallery, or simply spend a sunny day getting inspired by breathtaking Art, this is your community hub for all things creative.

2026_Sourc-4PageSpread.pdf

3

8/6/26

7:43 PM

WHO WILL BE THERE? Art in the High Desert 2026 will feature over 130 jury-selected fine artists and craftspeople in the categories of painting, 2D and 3D mixed media, jewelry, glass, ceramics, fiber, wearables, drawing, metalworks, printmaking, sculpture, digital, woodworking, and photography.

2026_Sourc-4PageSpread.pdf

4

8/6/26

7:43 PM

For more information visit artinthehighdesert.com or @artinthehighdesert on Instagram.

100+ ARTISTS 15 MEDIUMS 2.5 DAYS AND YOU’RE INVITED!

NEW

Free Art Shuttle & Parking Park Off-Site: Old Mt. Bachelor Park & Ride 1000 SW Bradbury Way (next to the Pavilion) Ride for Free: Catch the free Art Shuttle to and from Riverbend Park. Shuttle Schedule: Runs all 3 days of the festival. Departs every 30 minutes. Operates continuously during all open show hours.

BEST OF BEND: PEOPLE

Best of People Best Budtender

65

Kris Arnold

Photos by Nicole Vulcan

Best Insurance Agent 1st Place - Fabian Clark - Country Financial Runner Up - Eric Janssen - Country Financial

Best Interior Designer 1st Place - Legum Design Runner Up - Iron Roots

Best Local Artist

DJ Kris Arnold has been rocking the Central Oregon airwaves for going on 20 years. Her Husky mix, Cassie, is just one of many fans.

1st Place - Megan Marie Myers Runner Up - Sheila Dunn

Best Local Band 1st Place - Not Your Ex Lover Runner Up - CPTN Over

Best Local Elite Athlete 1st Place - Max King Runner Up - Casey Sherrel

Best Local Influencer 1st Place - The Bend Foodie Runner Up - Fertile Liza

Best Local Radio Personality 1st Place - Kris 92/9 Runner Up - Dave Clemens KQAK 105.7

Best Realtor 1st Place - Tiffany Clark Runner Up - Stormy Clark

Best Rabble Rouser 1st Place - Nancy Zadoff Runner Up - Caleb Trowbridge

Best Tattoo Artist 1st Place - Chase Tafoya Runner Up - Taya Nolan

Best TV Personality 1st Place - Emily Kirk Runner Up - Tracee Tuesday

Winning never gets old for the 92/9 program director and popular DJ By Dallas Finn Calvert

K

ris Arnold oozes cool. She’s rocking an allblack outfit and black sparkly slides, her blonde beachy waves shot through with vivid pink. She looks like she’d be right on point in front of the camera on a cool music show or fronting a rock band. But fortunately, for Central Oregonians, she’s quite happy behind the mic, playing a wide selection of rock from the past five decades as a DJ on 92/9 FM. It’s no surprise she’s this year’s Best Radio Personality in the Source readers’ poll. She’s won it countless times over the years. She said the win never gets old. “(People) kind of have to jump through hoops to fill out that ballot. You have to know my name and what station I work for, so yes, it means a lot. I’m thankful to everyone out there,” said Arnold, as Cassie, her Husky mix that accompanies her to work, snoozes in the corner of the studio in Southwest Bend. Arnold has always loved music and radio. She got her start behind the mic while in high school and worked in the recording industry for Atlantic Records in Los Angeles. A move to Bend saw her land at 92/9, where she’ll celebrate two decades behind the mic next May. She’s the program director in addition to hosting on air Monday through Friday from 10am-3pm and on Saturdays from Noon-5pm. She also hosts a Tuesday night show at 8, called “Highway 97,” that highlights local bands and artists. She loves the chance to expose people to music they might not have heard before, and also to play beloved songs that get listeners pumped up. “I just love playing music for people because I hope it makes them happy and maybe changes the trajectory of their day if they hear something they love or something that surprises them,” she said from the studio on Bend’s west side. “My hope is

I’ll just make someone’s day because music has that power, right? It could make or break your day.” Arnold, sitting in her DJ chair in between songs, graciously agrees to answer a couple rapid-fire questions about music. Top five favorite songs? “That’s impossible. I can’t do it,” she said with a laugh before rattling off The Beatles’ “Dear Prudence” as number one and then pausing to think about the next ones, which include Sonic Youth’s “Teenage Riot” and “anything” by The Replacements. “I love The Replacements,” she said, before capping off her list with “Old to Begin” by Pavement. First song she remembers hearing? “Simon & Garfunkel, because that was my dad’s favorite band,” she recalls. “Maybe ‘Bridge Over Troubled Water.’” Song she can’t resist singing along with when it comes on? “Anything from the ‘70s. Maybe Player’s ‘Baby Come Back’ or something with Michael McDonald singing on it,” she said. As she prepares to slip on her headphones and jump back on the air to spin tunes across the Central Oregon airwaves, she says winning the award made her day. And she plans to be around to win many more. “I’ve been working here for 19 years,” she said. “As long as they let me stay on the air, I’ll stay on air.” Kris Arnold On the air Mon-Fri 10am-3pm; Sat Noon-5pm; Tue 8pm 92.9 FM Runner Up: Dave Clemens 105.7 FM

VOLUME 30 ISSUE 33 / AUGUST 13, 2026 / THE SOURCE

1st Place - Jacob Butterfield - Tokyo Starfish Runner Up - Krista Hunter

BEST RADIO PERSONALITY

Lean on two of Central Oregon’s Best Real Estate Professionals who go above and beyond! AUGUST 13, 2026 / BEND’S INDEPENDENT VOICE - NOW DAILY AT WWW.BENDSOURCE.COM

66

Best Mortgage Company

Best Realtor

Andy Zook

Tiffany Clark

A2Z Home Loans

Bend Premier Real Estate

NMLS-2579289 & 147460

RealEstateTiffany@gmail.com 541-706-0911 AllBendRealEstate.com

andy@A2ZHomeLoans.net 541-420-2625 a2zhomeloans.net

We are honored to once again be voted “Best of Central Oregon”

can’t be beat and we’re proud to have been voted

BEND’S BEST GOLF COURSE 24 times

Play Central Oregon’s Favorite Golf Course 18707 SW CENTURY DRIVE, BEND

BEST OF BEND: PEOPLE

BEST LOCAL ARTIST

VOLUME 30 ISSUE 33 / AUGUST 13, 2026 / THE SOURCE

Megan Marie Myers Images courtesy of Megan Marie Myers

A self-portrait by Megan Marie Myers, featuring Smokey, her faithful border collie and running buddy.

You might not know the artist personally, but the warm whimsy of her art is renowned around town By Peter Madsen

W

hen Megan Marie Myers relocated from Portland to Bend in 2015, it was hard for most Bendites not to notice. Not that Myers cuts an outsize public persona — she’d rather be ultra-running in the Cascade foothills with Smokey, her border collie. Instead, her playful art, reminiscent of children’s book illustrations and vintage Saturday morning cartoons, quickly found a place in the hearts of locals and tourists alike. Business owners soon commissioned her to make murals at their businesses. Greeting cards and original works soon hung on the walls and shelves of coffee shops, galleries and beyond. Myers has also been busy making children’s books, including last year’s “The Tagalongs,” which centers on the natural world, self-reliance and helping others. No matter one’s art-buying budget, Myers invites viewers to interact with her dynamic settings in any number of ways. Myers’ move to Bend coincided with another leap of faith: leaving a reliable — and enjoyable — job as an in-house sign artist at Trader Joe’s and devoting that energy to her own work. “That was the crux right there. Am I going all-in?” Myers told the Source. “I was prepared that if it didn’t work out, I could probably go back to Trader Joe’s.”

It’s easy to see why Myers’ art continues to move and delight viewers. The artist’s work consistently features a human character exploring the mountains, the coastline, the high desert. Importantly, this cartoon avatar interacts with various companions — usually of the lupine, ursine or canine persuasion. The way Myers renders light, texture and movement borrows from relatable, warm childhood touchstones such as “The Little Prince” by Antoine de Saint Exupery, “Calvin & Hobbes” by Bill Waterson; and Hanna-Barbera cartoons from the 1960s and ‘70s. (If you look at Myers’ mountains, for example, you glimpse the influential contours of Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park, she says.) Myers says her work is not just about nature; it showcases the relationships we stumble on when we’re exploring the outdoors. Earlier this year, Myers revealed her diagnosis for astrocytoma, a type of brain cancer. A GoFundMe campaign, meant to cover medical and travel expenses, can be found online. In speaking with the Source, Myers was upbeat. She spoke of her treatment’s progress and how she’s using this life-altering event to re-focus on original works while she gives herself plenty of rest. “My worst symptoms are fatigue, so now I give myself a mid-day nap,” Myers said with a laugh. “But

67

I feel pretty good. I give myself the opportunity to be more thoughtful and well-rested. But I think that will yield some really cool work. I’m trying to take any win where I can get them.” Her training runs with Smokey have been reduced, for now, to daily walks. Fine by Myers, she says, since she’s still communing with nature. Myers continues to make art at the co-working artist space The Workhouse, in southeast Bend, where a lot of those close-knit collaborations continue throughout the various artists’ workspaces and events. “There’s such a large art community,” Myers said. “We all try to help each other out with resources and supplies. It’s nice to commune with artists who do different types of work yet we’re still in the industry. We’re sharing information about connecting with audiences.” Megan Marie Myers

Studio located at The Workhouse 50 SE Scott St. #6, Bend Meganmariemyers.com

Runner Up: Sheila Dunn

ARC'TERYX • BEDROCK • BLACK DIAMOND • CHACO DARN TOUGH • HYDRO FLASK • KAVU • LA SPORTIVA MAMMUT • METOLIUS • MSR • NOCS PROVISIONS OBOZ • OSPREY • OUTDOOR RESEARCH • PATAGONIA PETZL • PRANA • RAB • SALEWA • SALOMON SCARPA • SMARTWOOL • SMITH • THERM-A-REST BEND’S LOCAL INDEPENDENT OUTDOOR RETAILER

THANK YOU TO OUR AMAZING COMMUNITY!

AUGUST 13, 2026 / BEND’S INDEPENDENT VOICE - NOW DAILY AT WWW.BENDSOURCE.COM

68

1ST PLACE

BEST OUTDOOR CLOTHING STORE 834 NW Colorado Ave Bend, Oregon 97703 541-388-0688 www.mountainsupplybend.com

RUNNER UP

BEST OUTDOOR GEAR SHOP

Monday - Saturday 10am-6pm Sunday 10am-5pm

BEST OF BEND: PEOPLE

BEST LOCAL BAND Not Your Ex Lover

69

Not Your Ex Lover poses for the camera before a recent Bend gig. From left are Alyssa Reyes “Reya,” KiKi Castro, KOURTNi and Julie Canales.

Not Your Ex Lover performs a recent set at The Commonwealth Pub in Bend.

Not your typical homegrown band (and that’s a good thing!) By Richard Sitts

V

oted Best Local Band by Source readers, Not Your Ex Lover describes itself as a “Latina, femme, (mostly) queer, ALL GRRL rock band based in Bend, Oregon.” The band also offers the following: “Their music tells the story of love and heartbreak with a grunge-pop vibe — and lots of sparkle. The band was formed in Central Oregon in 2022, bringing together KOURTNi (lead vocals, lyricist and rhythm guitar). Julie Canales (lead guitar and violin), Alyssa Reyes “Reya” (bass and vocals) and KiKi Castro (drums). Since then, they’ve moved from the garage to opening locally for the Dandy Warhols, Dayglow, Thelma and the Sleaze, and traveling across the land to play at festivals like Treefort Music Fest (Boise, Idaho) and Dream Roll (a women-only motorcycle camp and arts event in Shelton, Washington).” Band members were asked how and when the band got together. KOURTNi: It was a beautiful summer day in 2023 ...I posted on Instagram looking for an all-girl band. KiKi and Reya responded right away! We all hadn’t played in a band before so it was all new for us. We met Julie and the band was complete. We’ve been rocking since our first appearance at M&J’s open mic. Reya: Some say it was kismet. KOURTNi posted on Instagram about wanting to form an all-girl band, which didn’t really exist in Bend at the time. We spent months making noise in the garage that resembled music until that fateful day, when we met Julie. the Source: Do the band members have a general philosophy or goal when it comes to playing music?

KOURTNi: Inspire girls and queer people to play music and create art! KiKi: Art is a form of resistance! Every song is a refusal to stay quiet and remind people that they are not alone. Support your local girl bands! Julie: If you’re able, get curious about picking up an instrument. If you have and just haven’t played in a while, consider getting back to it. Music is medicine and I’m thankful for it every day. Reya: We use our voices, our instruments, our songs to share our story and speak out on the things that matter . . . and we do it covered in glitter. Make art from the heart and let it be fun! tS: Why do you play music, and what do you get out of it? KiKi: I started playing drums after learning that my grandfather was a famous musician who played at Woodstock. He was the percussionist in the red shirt and black headband in Santana's legendary performance, and still lives in the Bay Area. Music has always been a part of me. I actually started on guitar, but discovering that connection inspired me to pick up the drums and I haven’t looked back. I also play because I want other women to see that you really can do it all if it’s important to you. Between work, family, running events and being in a band, life is busy. But I’ve learned that we make time for the things we truly care about. If you tell yourself, “I don’t have time,” I’d challenge that. I might be one of the busiest people I know and I’m still here! Playing loud, chasing my dreams, and rockin’ stronger than ever. If I can do it, so can you. KOURTNi: I’ve been writing poetry since I was very young and have always loved music but never

found the push to become a musician. I had picked up the guitar a few times in my life but it never stuck. I started playing live music in 2018 and it was all over from there. I love to perform and I love the way songwriting can connect so many different people. My hope is that our words can help someone who might need to hear them. Reya: As a kid, I loved to perform. I had a portable karaoke machine that came out at family functions (LOL, it was the 90’s) and I used to dream that one day I would be a famous singer like Selena or something. My grandpa gave me a guitar when I left for college, but I never leaned more than a couple of campfire chords. As I grew up and leaned into academia, my creative side kinda phased out. It took this group of women coming into my life for me to step into becoming an artist and I’ll be grateful for that forever. I feel like our music is an extension of our friendship and the stage is a place for us to be playful, loud and unapologetically honest about what’s going on. Not Your Ex Lover is writing new songs and has a five-track EP coming out at the end of summer, including the next single, “Ride,” coming out at the end of this month. Plans are to record two more singles this year. Not Your Ex Lover Aug 21 Cheba Hut Aug 29 The Commonwealth Pub notyourexlover.com Instagram @not_your_ex_lover Runner Up: Cptn Over

VOLUME 30 ISSUE 33 / AUGUST 13, 2026 / THE SOURCE

Photos by Richard Sitts

Best of Places

AUGUST 13, 2026 / BEND’S INDEPENDENT VOICE - NOW DAILY AT WWW.BENDSOURCE.COM

70

Best Indoor Music Venue

Best Open Mic

1st Place - Volcanic Theatre Pub Runner Up - Silver Moon Brewing

1st Place - The Commons Cafe & Taproom Runner Up - Silver Moon Brewing

Best Locals' Hangout

Best Place To Work (over 50 employees)

1st Place - Hayden Homes Amphitheater Runner Up - The Podski

1st Place - Hayden Homes Runner Up - Whispering Winds Retirement

Best Locals' Night 1st Place - Bevel Brewing Runner Up - On Tap

Best Lodging 1st Place - The Oxford Hotel Runner Up - The Westman

Best Nonprofit Serving Animal Welfare 1st Place - Humane Society of Central Oregon Runner Up - Street Dog Hero

Best Nonprofit Serving Arts/Culture 1st Place - Cascade School of Music Runner Up - Tower Theatre Foundation

Best Nonprofit Serving Basic Needs 1st Place - The Giving Plate Runner Up NeighborImpact

Best Nonprofit Serving Education, Families and Children 1st Place - Boys and Girls Club of Central Oregon Runner Up - Family Access Network

Best Nonprofit Serving Health and Environment 1st Place - The Environmental Center Runner Up - Oregon Natural Desert Association

Best Place To Work (under 50 employees) 1st Place - A+ Cleaning & Sanitation Runner Up - Tokyo Starfish

Best Radio Station 1st Place - KPOV 88.9 Runner Up - 92/9

Best Senior Living Community 1st Place - Whispering Winds Retirement Runner Up - Touchmark

Best Spot for a Night Out with the Crew 1st Place - Dogwood at The Pine Shed Runner Up - The Coyote

Best Staycation Destination 1st Place - Sunriver Resort Runner Up - Brasada Ranch

Best Trivia Night 1st Place - Silver Moon Brewing Runner Up - Bevel Brewing

Best Wedding Venue 1st Place - Sunriver Resort Runner Up - Aspen Hall

BEST OF BEND: PLACES

BEST SENIOR LIVING COMMUNITY

71

Nic Moye

Whispering Winds

Whispering Winds

General Manager Carrie Kasch, VP of Operations Angela Vanderpool and Marketing Director Shannon Brown.

A community sharing love, activities and scrumptious food By Nic Moye

T

he daily calendar at Whispering Winds Retirement Community is packed with a variety of activities including bingo, cardio drumming, birthday parties, chair volleyball, mimosas & watercolor class, bridge club, shopping trips, live music and so much more. Whispering Winds, which opened in 2003, has 148 residents and about 60 staff members. Source readers voted it Best Senior Living Community (for the third time) and as runner up this year for Best Place to Work (over 50 employees). “I think a lot of it has to do with we are privately owned,” General Manager Carrie Kasch says when asked why the retirement community garnered enough votes to launch it to the top. Whispering Winds is managed by Dharma Healthcare Management, which manages five retirement communities in Oregon with locations in Bend, Eugene and Medford. Rooms range from studio to two-bedroom, with five cottages behind the main building. “I think as soon as you walk into Whispering Winds you can feel the difference,” Angela Vanderpool, VP of Operations, adds. “Everyone’s here because they care and love the residents.” It’s an independent living community for anyone

55 or older. There is no medical staff. The overall mission is to enjoy life with friends. “We’re going to take care of their meals, activities, socialization, driving services, housekeeping, maintenance — all the things that can allow them just to live their best life,” Vanderpool explains. “A lot of them (residents) refer to it like being on a cruise ship, like being on vacation. They move in and everything is taken care of,” says Kasch. “I think also learning new things…One of the members was like, ‘I can’t believe I’m 90 and I’m finally learning new things.’ She was learning to do calligraphy that she’s always wanted to learn.” The main building on NE Conners Avenue has a cozy fireside room for residents to socialize in or read a book, a gym with regular fitness programs, a hydroponic garden, a spacious dining area with a private, fancier dining room for special occasions and a courtyard with a pond. In addition, field trips are offered to places like the Tower Theater, hiking, local lakes and horse races. Sometimes longer trips are planned to locations like Hawaii or the Monterey Bay Aquarium. But even with all that, both Kasch and Vanderpool agree, the biggest draw is the cuisine.

“The dining room is just like a restaurant here. It’s open all day long. They can come in any time,” Vanderpool says. “We have a full menu with more than 30 entrees, daily specials, a full salad bar, two soups. We are known for our food. Our food is delicious and we are all about food around here!” “I think the hydroponic garden too is a really nice touch,” Kasch adds. “We use some of those items in our salad bar and the chef uses (it) too.” It’s a community where everyone is invested. “We have some very long-term staff members. I’ve been here for 23 years,” Kasch says. “We have a hospitality director who’s been here 15 years. Our office manager has been here 13.” “I’ve been here 18 years and can’t imagine doing anything else,” Vanderpool agrees. “What makes it special is we all love it.” Whispering Winds 2920 NE Conners Ave. Ste. 100, Bend whisperingwinds.info/ 541-312-9690 Runner Up: Touchmark

VOLUME 30 ISSUE 33 / AUGUST 13, 2026 / THE SOURCE

Whispering Winds

AUGUST 13, 2026 / BEND’S INDEPENDENT VOICE - NOW DAILY AT WWW.BENDSOURCE.COM 72

BEST OF BEND: PLACES

The Giving Plate

Photos by Nic Moye

It takes a hard-working, dedicated crew to carry out The Giving Plate's mission of feeding those most in need in Central Oregon.

Raising the standard of how people expect to be treated By Abby Francis

T

he Giving Plate started 16 years ago when Gary and Debra Kelso started a food bank with the hope of helping 500 local families. The nonprofit has been growing with its community ever since. Gregory Prestel joined The Giving Plate in April as the executive director. He emphasized that his new role reflected the efforts of everyone, especially those who had been with the organization longer than he had. One of those people is Janae McMaster, The Giving Plate’s warehouse manager who has been working there for more than seven years. “I’m proud, but it’s also humbling because the organization has existed for more than 15 years,” Gregory said. “To be able to take a leadership role for something that someone else established and now obviously the results show that it was built well.” McMaster jumped in to share her story with her beginnings at The Giving Plate. “It [was] like, wow, this could be something that really fulfills,” she said. “My heart is going to be really full and [this work] restores your faith in our community.” The Central Oregon community is what gives The Giving Plate the opportunity to serve 2,400

households per month. That is over 7,800 individuals in June alone. “We’ve been here through Covid and the fires and all of that. We were here and just watch[ed] the community truly rally around our mission,” said Janae. “I stood at that back door every day,” McMaster said, pointing to the back of their warehouse in northeast Bend. “And people [were] constantly bringing food in.” The nonprofit operates on the preventative side of homelessness, providing a way for people to pay their bills rather than spending money on groceries. Some 95% of The Giving Plate’s recipients are from housed, working class families. The Giving Plate stands out in the community because of its unique model of food distribution. This model allows people to shop like regular supermarkets: grabbing a cart, looking around, picking what they would like. This allows a sense of autonomy and self-respect. Unlike other food pantries, the store is stocked with essentials including canned goods, but also fresh produce, eggs and milk. “People aren’t treated any differently,” McMaster said. “It’s a safe space for them.”

But the team is what makes this nonprofit run to its fullest potential. “This team works super hard. I mean it can sometimes not be so glamorous…[but] everybody shows up every day. We all have different lanes and we all execute those pretty well,” McMaster said. The Giving Plate’s main mission is feeding the community, but it also serves to pull the community back toward each other, keeping its resources within the community Gregory emphasized. When asked what they would like the community to know about the organization, Prestel says he wants people to know that the nonprofit exists and there’s room for everyone in the community to be part of it. The Giving Plate Wed. 2-6pm, Thu-Fri 10am-4pm, Sat 10am-2pm Community store: 61470 S. Hwy 97, Bend 541-797-6883 thegivingplate.org Runner Up: NeighborImpact

73 VOLUME 30 ISSUE 33 / AUGUST 13, 2026 / THE SOURCE

BEST NONPROFIT SERVING BASIC NEEDS

Best of Shopping

AUGUST 13, 2026 / BEND’S INDEPENDENT VOICE - NOW DAILY AT WWW.BENDSOURCE.COM

74

Best Antique Store

Best Home Décor

1st Place - Iron Horse Runner Up - Gathered Wares

1st Place - Lark Mountain Modern Runner Up - Borgo Rosati

Best Beauty Boutique

Best Indoor Plant Store

1st Place - Wren & Wild Runner Up - Lemon Drop Salon

1st Place - Somewhere That's Green Runner Up - Desert Rose Cactus Lounge

Best Bike Shop

Best Jewelry Store

1st Place - Pine Mountain Sports Runner Up - Sunnyside Sports

1st Place - Silverado Runner Up - Saxon's Fine Jewelers

Best Bookstore

Best Liquor Store

1st Place - Roundabout Books Runner Up - Dudley's Bookshop Cafe

1st Place - 3rd Street Beverage Runner Up - Trailhead Liquor

Best Car Dealership

Best Local Appliance Store

1st Place - Subaru of Bend Runner Up - Kendall Toyota

Best CBD Company 1st Place - ABLIS Runner Up - Metolious Wellness

Best Children’s Clothing 1st Place - Hopscotch Kids Runner Up - Stone Soup

1st Place - Johnson Brothers Appliances Runner Up - Standard TV & Appliance

Best Men’s Clothing 1st Place - Revolvr Menswear Runner Up - Vanilla Urban Threads

Best Nursery/ Garden Center

Best Clothing Consignment

1st Place - Moonfire & Sun Garden Center Runner Up - Eastside Gardens

1st Place - Cosa Cura Runner Up - Truffle Pig Trading Co.

Best Outdoor Clothing Store

Best Dispensary 1st Place - Tokyo Starfish Runner Up - Oregrown

Best Furniture Consignment 1st Place - Roundabouts Home Consignments Runner Up - Furnish Hope

Best Gift Store 1st Place - ju-bee-lee Runner Up - Modern Games

Best Grocery Store 1st Place - Newport Ave Market Runner Up - Market of Choice

1st Place - Mountain Supply Runner Up - The Gear Fix

Best Outdoor Gear Shop 1st Place - The Gear Fix Runner Up - Mountain Supply

Best Pet Store 1st Place - Bend Pet Express Runner Up - Local Paws

Best Place to Buy Art 1st Place - The Workhouse Runner Up - Tumalo Art Co.

BEST OF BEND: SHOPPING

BEST BIKE SHOP Pine Mountain Sports

75 VOLUME 30 ISSUE 33 / AUGUST 13, 2026 / THE SOURCE

Photos by Peter Madsen

Pine Mountain Sports, on Bend's west side, has won Best Bike Shop three years in a row.

Despite a recent change of ownership, the west side bike shop remains in good hands By Peter Madsen

E

ven though he only bought Pine Mountain Sports in June, Rafe Lehner says he regularly notices longtime customers who walk into the west side Bend bike shop. And they recognize him. Lehner worked at Pine Mountain in 2013, shortly before opening Mountain View Cycles in downtown Hood River the following year. Lehner, who co-owns Pine Mountain with his business partner and wife Lydia Lehner, told the Source that that familiarity was one of the reasons they wanted to helm the shop, which Dan and Michelle McGarigle opened in 2000. No fewer than six employees are still at the shop since Lehner’s stint 13 years ago. “The shop culture here is still really strong,” Lehner told the Source, adding that several have worked at the mountain bike and gravel bike shop for more

than two decades. “I think that says something about how amazing Pine has been. To retain employees that long in retail is pretty rare.” Not for nothing, this is the third consecutive year that Pine Mountain Sports has won Best Bike Shop. Lehner isn’t patting himself on the back. In speaking about winning the readers’ poll, he’s quick to credit the crew, steered by general manager Jason Marshall, for not only fostering a work culture worth showing up for, but the regular customers who make it happen. Lehner says the shop’s approach to customer service begins with a straightforward question: What are your goals? He says that’s key in recognizing how to proceed. Is the customer just getting back into regular riding? Are they a former racer who wants to get back to speed immediately from the couch? (Consider an e-bike.) Tackling the High Cascades 100 or the Oregon Timber Trail? We’ve got you — right this way.

For the time being, Lehner splits his time between Bend and Hood River, where he lives with his family — five days here, five days there. “It’s really fun reconnecting with people,” Lehner said. “I think locals love to see the same faces. We’re really dedicated to Bend and the people who work here really love it.” Pine Mountain Sports 288 SW Century Dr., Bend 541-385-8080 Mon-Fri 10am-6pm, Sat 9am-6pm, Sun 9am-5pm pinemountainsports.com Runner Up: Sunnyside Sports

AUGUST 13, 2026 / BEND’S INDEPENDENT VOICE - NOW DAILY AT WWW.BENDSOURCE.COM

76

I

– Es

years in t 0 h 2

e

I LL DI S TR

! CT

O

M LD

tablishe d

g

20

05

–Celebra t

in

425 SW Powerhouse Dr #307 Old Mill District · 541-617-6113

–

So much love for you Central Oregon! Thank you for making us one of your fave spots for women’s and men’s clothing swimwear, and so much more!

BEST OF BEND: SHOPPING

Best of Shopping

Bend Shoe Co

1st Place - Vanilla Urban Threads Runner Up - Soul Bella

Teague Hatfield

Nic Moye

Best Shoe Store 1st Place - Bend Shoe Co Runner Up Footzone

Best Ski/ Snowboard Shop

Nic Moye

1st Place - Powder House Ski & Patio Runner Up - Tactics

Best Smoking Accessories 1st Place - Hempies Runner Up MidTown Direct Smoke Shop

Best Thrift Store 1st Place - HSCO Thrift Store Runner Up REgroup Thrift Store

Best Toy Store 1st Place - Leapin' Lizards Toy Co. Runner Up Learning Express

Best Vintage Clothing 1st Place - Old Boy Vintage Runner Up - Revival Vintage

Best Women’s Clothing 1st Place - Vanilla Urban Threads Runner Up Hempies

Owners Teague Hatfield and Tori Oshel.

Where comfort and style merge By Nic Moye

T

eague Hatfield has owned the Birkenstock-Bend Shoe Co store on NW Wall Street for a decade. That store has a long history in downtown Bend, originally opening in 1976. Hatfield and co-owner Tori Oshel opened the eastside location off NE Highway 20 in the Forum Shopping Center four years ago. Together, the stores have 26 employees. “We’re a classic comfort shoe store,” said Hatfield, who has a long history in the local shoe scene. He worked at a shoe store during college, which is when he started thinking of it as a viable future in business. “I look at shoes as a tool, but then I also have that side of my life where you like design and you like beauty and all the cool stuff,” he says. Hatfield opened FootZone Bend in 1995 and later opened Outside In, both of which he sold. Dozens of brands are sold at the stores including Birkenstock, Blundstone, Dansko, Hoka, Taos, Ugg and much more. One of the most popular brands, Birkenstock, is made in Germany, and other shoes in the store are manufactured in Spain, affected by tariffs, but Hatfield says, customers are still buying. “It’s been a big deal as far as it’s made shoes more expensive, for sure,” he says. Nonetheless, he continues, “business has been very strong.” “The eastside location has definitely grown,” Oshel says. “It feels like people are figuring out that we’re here, which is fun.” Oshel started as an employee but started buying into an ownership opportunity several years ago. In a promotional video, Hatfield says, “I put shoe stores on the same pedestal as coffee shops and bike shops, and great bookstores and things that just define a community and define a place.”

“It can make an experience better. It can make a trip better if you have footwear that works for you,” Oshel says. “Best Shoe Store” is a new category this year, and the Bend Shoe Co won right out of the gate. “We put a lot of heart into it,” Hatfield says. “We care a lot about running a local, independent business. We put a lot of energy in. We both love shoes, to be perfectly honest, and we’re of different generations, so we bring some different perspectives to it. And we have an amazing staff that chooses to be here.” Both Oshel and Hatfield love shoes so much, they each own more than 50 pairs. “They’re in all my closets,” Oshel confesses. “My wife would tell you, there are bins in the garage that she doesn’t know what’s in there, and it’s probably a good thing,” Hatfield laughs. Both he and Oshel are grateful to Source readers who voted for them. “Thank you, Central Oregon. It was really flattering and super fun,” Hatfield says. Bend Shoe Co Mon-Sat 10am-6pm, Sun 11am-5pm Downtown: 836 NW Wall St., Bend Eastside: 2680 Hwy 20, Ste 320, Bend bendshoeco.com Runner Up: FootZone

77 VOLUME 30 ISSUE 33 / AUGUST 13, 2026 / THE SOURCE

Best Place to Buy Swimwear

BEST SHOE STORE

AUGUST 13, 2026 / BEND’S INDEPENDENT VOICE - NOW DAILY AT WWW.BENDSOURCE.COM

78

Thank you Central Oregon for choosing Grace and Hammer as your favorite pizza place for six years in a row!

Best of Redmond Redmond Best Adult Dental Group 1st Place - Gilmore Dental Runner Up - Keener Family Dentistry

Redmond Best Auto Repair 1st Place - Redmond Auto Service Tire Pros Runner Up - Robirts Auto Care

Redmond Best Bar 1st Place - Wayfarer Club Runner Up - The Hideaway

The building is 115 years old but the food and mood ARE made fresh daily. We make everything from scratch using fresh and wholesome ingredients.

IN THE HISTORIC REDMOND CHURCH ON THE CORNER OF 7TH AND CASCADE g rac ean d hammer.com • 541-668-668 4

Redmond Best Barbershop 1st Place - Aziz Crew Runner Up - The Station Barbershop

Redmond Best Boutique 1st Place - Willow Wild Runner Up - Desert Prairie

Redmond Best Breakfast

Redmond Best Dessert 1st Place- Kook'i Runner Up - Ida's Cupcake Café

Redmond Best Fitness Studio 1st Place - Redmond Athletic Club Runner Up - Love Bird Yoga

Redmond Best Food Cart 1st Place - Jonny's Joint Runner Up - Cascade Alchemy Bowls

Redmond Best Food Cart Lot 1st Place - Blacksmith Public House Runner Up - Dry Canyon Club

Redmond Best Gift Shop 1st Place - Welcome Home Runner Up - Lady Bug Flowers & Gifts

Redmond Best Hair Salon

1st Place - Brand 44 N Runner Up - One Street Down Cafe

1st Place - Wilderluxe Beauty Runner Up - Hip Chicks Salon

Redmond Best Breakfast Burrito

Redmond Best Happy Hour

1st Place - Jonny's Joint Runner Up - La Bonita Brunch

1st Place - Wayfarer Club Runner Up - Feast Food Co.

Redmond Best Brewery/Brewpub 1st Place - Wild Ride Brewing Runner Up - Cascade Lakes Brewing

Redmond Best Burger 1st Place - Redmond Burger Co. Runner Up - Jonny's Joint

Redmond Best Coffee Shop 1st Place - Tite Knot Craft Coffee Runner Up - Junction Roastery

Redmond Best Insurance Agent 1st Place - Jake Waardenburg - State Farm Runner Up - Brian Myers - State Farm

Redmond Best Locals' Hangout 1st Place - General Duffy's Waterhole Runner Up - Wild Ride Brewing

BEST OF REDMOND

BEST NEW FOOD CART IN REDMOND

79

Dallas Finn Calvert

VOLUME 30 ISSUE 33 / AUGUST 13, 2026 / THE SOURCE

Top Dogs

“Why hot dogs? Why not hot dogs. I had no idea how much people liked hot dogs until I was setting this up. It’s an American staple.” — Kenny Wilson Kenny Wilson

Ashley Sarvis

These are not your parents' hot dogs. Top Dogs owner Kenny Wilson displays one of his creations that takes hot dogs to a whole new level.

Prepare to be amazed by the delicious and spicy secret ingredient on the street dogs By Dallas Finn Calvert

M

ustard, mayo and ketchup? Check! Bacon, grilled onions and peppers? Yes, please. Flamin’ Hot Cheetos? Wait, what? At Top Dogs, named 2026 Best New Food Cart for Redmond, there are big dogs, little dogs, chili dogs and the fan favorite, street dogs, which feature a bacon-wrap grilled dog topped with all the usual condiments, grilled onions and peppers — and the aforementioned Flamin’ Hot Cheetos. “I slap the bags of Hot Cheetos in the food processor and turn them into dust,” said Kenny Wilson, 57, who owns the operation with his son, Greyson, 10. Top Dogs went live last year and calls home a spot out front of Redmond’s Home Depot. Currently, Top Dogs is under a tent on the south end of the building, but Wilson has purchased a food truck that he’ll move Top Dogs into within a month. It’ll be parked in the Home Depot lot. Once the new truck is in place, Wilson plans to expand his “lunch” menu to include baked potatoes

with all the toppings available on his hot dogs, and then he’ll also open for breakfast. He’s already got his breakfast menu mostly set, and it includes burritos, biscuits and gravy, tater tots smothered with eggs and gravy and, “some kind of breakfast sandwich.” Currently, he’s open Thursday through Sunday from 10 am to 3 pm. Wilson “supports local” by using only hot dogs from Hill’s Premium Meats in Pendleton. When the truck arrives, he plans to open for breakfast daily. “We went live with it last year at Music on the Green. That’s where we cut our teeth, and then it just blew up. It’s fantastic,” said Wilson, explaining he was doing pop-ups around town until just signing on for a permanent spot recently at Home Depot. He’s also worked at several concerts and is booking private events. Top Dogs is 10 years in the making, said Wilson, who also continues to tend bar part-time at Timbers in Redmond.

“I had an opportunity right before (my son) was born to buy a hot dog cart, and I didn’t do it. Every time I’d go to an event and there’s vendors, I’d kick myself in the butt. Three years ago, this opportunity came up, and I jumped on it,” said Wilson, who surfs the internet and socials, looking for the latest hot dog crazes that he can put a personal spin on at Top Dogs. “Why hot dogs?” Wilson asks as he prepares an order for a customer. “Why not hot dogs. I had no idea how much people liked hot dogs until I was setting this up. It’s an American staple.” Top Dogs Thu-Sun 10am-3pm Home Depot parking lot 300 NW Quince Ave., Redmond Runner Up: La Bonita Brunch

AUGUST 13, 2026 / BEND’S INDEPENDENT VOICE - NOW DAILY AT WWW.BENDSOURCE.COM

80

­ ­

() - Jefflarkinrealty.com

 SW th Street Redmond, OR 

BEST OF REDMOND

BEST LODGING IN REDMOND SCP Redmond Hotel

81

Wayfarer Club SCP Hotel

SCP Hotel

Innovative SCP Hotel sets the bar high for hospitality and the environment

Richard Sitts

From left are SCP General Manager Tobias Colvin, Food & Beverage Director Kels Rook and Food & Beverage Supervisor Carmen Schulthess.

By Richard Sitts

O

n a recent hot Friday afternoon the Wayfarer Club in the cozy confines of the SCP Hotel in downtown Redmond is fairly packed, with only a few empty seats to be had. The happy clientele appeared to be a mix of hotel guests and locals, probably more of the latter. Smoky skies and an unhealthy Air Quality Index did not seem to deter anyone from getting out and about. The popular hotel is a triple winner in the Source readers’ poll, hauling in first place for Best Bar, Best Happy Hour and Best Lodging in Redmond. SCP Hotel General Manager Tobias Colvin offered a tour of the hotel including the rooftop, which was closed to service on this smoky day. Visitors were welcome to take their drinks up there (though there were no takers), but Colvin said he wanted to protect his staff from working in the heat and smoke. The outstanding views would have to wait for another visit. We took the elevator up, but returned to the lobby on the stairs, many of which were crafted out of the original nearly 100-year-old wooden planks. The welcoming and spacious lobby is an attraction unto itself. There’s even a working turntable and a crate of records waiting for lounging visitors to spin. Colvin also responded to some submitted questions. the Source: What makes the SCP Wayfarer Club experience special?

Tobias Colvin: It comes down to our concept of “Holistic Hospitality.” We believe food and beverage is energy — it’s how we care for the body, connect with our community and nurture the planet. Everything we craft is intentional, from our housemade cocktail syrups crafted from real ingredients like local Metolius teas, fresh produce and high-quality raw demerara sugar, to our cocktails designed and created by our talented and creative bartenders, to our “Wild and Free” non-alcoholic drinks. The “Verdita Bandito” is our most popular drink and showcases our creativity and commitment to quality craft cocktails. It is made with Hood River’s Batanga silver tequila, pineapple and lime juices, and a proprietary mix of green herbs and peppers for a unique, herbaceous flavor and a little bit of spice. We put the same level of creativity and execution into our non-alcoholic creations. We are finding that many of our customers who want to connect over a fun and fancy beverage without the alcohol really resonate with the Wild and Free beverage program. tS: What can you say about your Happy Hour? TC: We wanted to create a space and time that attracts our local community and makes it easy to enjoy an expertly crafted and refreshing beverage after a long day at an accessible price point. Our happy hour is also unique in that we offer it every day

of the week — including weekends — from 3-5 pm. tS: What is the SCP philosophy and goals of hospitality? TC: Our vision is to make the world a better place by serving those who value wellness, kindness and the environment. Our core values are Healthy (personal wellness), Kind (social good) and Green (sustainable practices). We also grow some berries, herbs, and edible flowers on our Rooftop garden to utilize in our handcrafted beverages. We reuse, recycle and compost everything that we can to lessen our environmental impact whenever possible. SCP Redmond & Wayfarer Club Bar open Sun-Thu 3-9pm, Fri-Sat 3-11pm Happy Hour 3-5pm 525 SW 6th St., Redmond scphotel.com/redmond Runner Ups:

Redmond Best Lodging: Eagle Crest Resort Redmond Best Happy Hour: Feast Food Co. Redmond Best Bar: The Hideaway

VOLUME 30 ISSUE 33 / AUGUST 13, 2026 / THE SOURCE

BEST HAPPY HOUR & BEST BAR IN REDMOND

Best of Redmond

AUGUST 13, 2026 / BEND’S INDEPENDENT VOICE - NOW DAILY AT WWW.BENDSOURCE.COM

82

Redmond Best Lodging

Redmond Best Nonprofit Event

1st Place - SCP Redmond Hotel Runner Up - Eagle Crest Resort

1st Place - Festival of Trees - ClearPath Healthcare Runner Up - Brightside Gala

Redmond Best Lunch 1st Place - Yi's Wok Runner Up - Feast Food Co.

Redmond Best Mani/Pedi 1st Place - Redmond Nails Runner Up - Hip Chicks Salon

Redmond Best Margarita 1st Place - Hola! Runner Up - Xalisco Latin Cuisine

Redmond Best Mexican 1st Place - Xalisco Latin Cuisine Runner Up - Mazatlan Mexican Restaurant

Redmond Best Mortgage Co 1st Place - Boss Mortgage Runner Up - Fairway Home Mortgage

Redmond Best New Food Cart 1st Place - Top Dogs Runner Up - La Bonita Brunch

Redmond Best New Restaurant/Bar 1st Place - Kook'i Runner Up - La Catrina Chingona

Redmond Best Nonprofit 1st Place - ClearPath Healthcare Runner Up - BrightSide Animal Shelter

Redmond Best Painting Company 1st Place - Smile-A-Mile Painting Runner Up - Paint Pros Central Oregon

Redmond Best Pizza 1st Place - Grace and Hammer Runner Up - Jersey Boys Pizzeria

Redmond Best Place for Live Music 1st Place - General Duffy's Waterhole Runner Up - Blacksmith Public House

Redmond Best Real Estate Co 1st Place - Jeff Larkin Realty Runner Up - Trout Realty

Redmond Best Restaurant 1st Place - Feast Food Co. Runner Up - Brickhouse

Redmond Best Roofing 1st Place - Scott's Roofing Runner Up - Tin Shield Roofing

Redmond Best Taco 1st Place - Axel's Taco Shop Runner Up - El Imperio

Redmond Best Veterinary Practice 1st Place - Cinder Rock Veterinary Clinic Runner Up - Redmond Veterinary Clinic

BEST OF REDMOND

BEST COFFEE SHOP IN REDMOND

83

Nic Moye

Nic Moye

Ashley Sarvis

Ashley Sarvis

Nic Moye

Lauri & Nick Dahl, owners of Tite Knot Craft Coffee.

Serving good coffee and gourmet pastries in a friendly atmosphere

From left are Tite Knot Owner Lauri Dahl & Manager Amanda Hulbert.

By Nic Moye

S

tepping into the slice of tranquility created by the owners of Tite Knot Craft Coffee in downtown Redmond, visitors can sit quietly inside or enjoy the lush, grassy garden area outside. The coffee shop opened in 2021 during the pandemic, so customers were forced to order outside at a cart parked behind the building. That turned out to be an unexpected blessing, so owners Lauri and Nick Dahl kept it that way. “I’ve seen so many interactions happen in line. People waiting in line to order and they’ve never met before and all of a sudden they’re just having a conversation. There’s something about this location in particular that really allows that to happen. Maybe because they’re waiting for good things,” says Lauri. Tite Knot has four Redmond locations including inside the Dry Canyon Club on NW Hemlock and a southside drive-thru on SW Canal Boulevard that opened in March. The demand for its pastries became larger than the small downtown kitchen

could handle, so the Dahls opened The Tite Knot Central Bakery on SW Veterans Way, near Fred Meyer, to the public in November. “We roll probably about 400 to 500 scones a day,” Lauri says. She started working in restaurants at age 13 and learned the art of gourmet coffee and pastries from a mentor on the east coast. “We laminate our scones. We hand roll everything and we laminate them like they were croissant dough,” she explains. Scones are offered in blueberry lemon zest, cinnamon roll and cardamom, bourbon, vanilla as well as seasonal flavors. Tite Knot also has biscuits & gravy on the menu along with a variety of recipes using brioche sourdough. But the biggest draw, of course, is the coffee. “We take our coffee really seriously. We start off with the best equipment that you can get because that makes a huge difference,” Lauri Dahl says. “We have a very unique blend [of coffee]. You can’t get it anywhere else. [Sisters Coffee] roasts it for us.”

Tite Knot has been voted the “Best” by Source readers for years. “We’re really genuine in what we do. We’re very, very genuine in what we’re offering and I think that strikes a chord with people,” Lauri says, smiling. “It’s about the hospitality of creating these experiences and these spaces for our customers, and I think they know that.” “Good food and good coffee doesn’t have to be pretentious,” Nick Dahl adds. Tite Knot Craft Coffee Downtown Daily 6am-4pm 706 SW 10th St., Redmond Central Bakery 6am-1pm 950 SW Veterans Way, Redmond titeknot.com Runner Up: Junction Roastery

VOLUME 30 ISSUE 33 / AUGUST 13, 2026 / THE SOURCE

Tite Knot Craft Coffee

AUGUST 13, 2026 / BEND’S INDEPENDENT VOICE - NOW DAILY AT WWW.BENDSOURCE.COM 84

BEST OF SISTERS Best of Sisters Sisters Best Bar/Brewpub

Sisters Best Boutique 1st Place - Bedouin Runner Up - Blue Burro

The Open Door Abby Francis

Sisters Best Breakfast 1st Place - Cottonwood Cafe Runner Up - Sisters Bakery The Open Door

Sisters Best Coffee Shop 1st Place - Sisters Coffee Runner Up - Fika Sisters Coffeehouse

Sisters Best Food Cart 1st Place - Boone Dog Pizza Runner Up - Brunchies

Sisters Best Gift Shop 1st Place - Bedouin Runner Up - The Hen's Tooth

Sisters Best Happy Hour 1st Place - Hardtails Outlaw Country Dive Bar & Grill Runner Up - The Barn

Sisters Best Locals' Hangout 1st Place - The Barn Runner Up - Hardtails Outlaw Country Dive Bar & Grill

Sisters Best Lodging 1st Place - FivePine Lodge Runner Up - Black Butte Lodge

Sisters Best Lunch 1st Place - Sisters Meat and Smokehouse Runner Up - Luckey's Woodsman

Sisters Best New Restaurant/Bar 1st Place - Three Finger Jack Tavern Runner Up - The McArthur

Sisters Best Nonprofit Event 1st Place - Sisters Folk Festival Runner Up - Sisters Quilt Show

Sisters Best Place for Live Music 1st Place - The Belfry Runner Up - The Barn

Sisters Best Restaurant 1st Place - The Open Door Runner Up - Luckey's Woodsman

Part art gallery, part restaurant — what could be better? By Abby Francis

W

hat makes The Open Door so special is that it never set out to be just a restaurant, or, in its unique case, just a gallery. The Open Door is really a sense of place and belonging. Walking into the patio on a bright summer morning, I admit, I felt extremely at peace. In 2000, Dan and Julia Rickards opened their gallery, The Rickards Gallery, in Sisters. Twelve years later, they opened The Open Door right next door. Both the gallery and the restaurant are the epitome of a family business. Both spaces come from each of the Rickards’ passions. Dan is an artist, hence the gallery, while the restaurant came from Julia’s love to gather people. “We are truly one entity, we are not one without the other,” said general manager Emily Luz, the couple’s daughter. “It’s such an integral part of the space and the flow and the atmosphere.” “What sets us apart is my parents and their legacy that they have built,” she said. Dan Rickards is the creative force behind the property’s inviting outdoor space, which was once an empty lot. He built the stage and the small structures scattered throughout the grounds, transforming the area into a thoughtfully designed gathering place with lots of charm and character. “That’s how they’ve lived their whole life…not being afraid to dream and work hard and make things happen. So, I’ve seen that. I’ve grown up watching that.” said Luz. Getting into a family business is sometimes, well, risky business, but the Rickards’ family

contributions to the restaurant and gallery blend together in their own unique way. “Dan’s always been the Da Vinci and Emily has always been logically organized,” said Julia Rickards. “I think the collaboration has been sweet for the three of us.” The Open Door aims for their employees to feel like an extension of their family. As for their clientele, it’s all about community outreach; living with the community who comes into the space. “It just really feels like having friends over for dinner,” said Luz. “It’s the biggest compliment when people say we just feel so known. Whether they’re from out of town, locals who come every summer or whether they’ve lived in the community since I can remember. I just love that people feel welcomed and invited.” Not playing into the status quo of the restaurant business ensured The Open Door’s readers’ choice victory as Best Sisters Restaurant. “We’ve had our growing pains, we’ve learned a lot, and we’ve always done things a little differently,” Luz added with a smile. The Open Door Tue-Sat 11:30am-8pm 303 W. Hood Ave., Sisters opendoorwinebar.com Runner Up: Luckey’s Woodsman

85 VOLUME 30 ISSUE 33 / AUGUST 13, 2026 / THE SOURCE

1st Place - Hardtails Outlaw Country Dive Bar & Grill Runner Up - The Barn

BEST RESTAURANT IN SISTERS

AUGUST 13, 2026 / BEND’S INDEPENDENT VOICE - NOW DAILY AT WWW.BENDSOURCE.COM 86

BEST OF SUNRIVER Best of Sunriver Sunriver Best Bar/ Brewpub

Sunriver Best Breakfast

Josie K’s Deli & Kitchen Photos by Jennifer Galler

1st Place - Café Sintra Runner Up - Sunriver Brewing

Sunriver Best Food Cart 1st Place - Zorba the Greek Runner Up - Wonderland Chicken Co.

From left are Allee, Tami Y., Tami N. and Emilee.

Sunriver Best Happy Hour 1st Place - Village Bar and Grill Runner Up - Owl's Nest

Sunriver Best Locals' Hangout 1st Place - Sunriver Brewing Runner Up - Century Commons

Sunriver Best Lodging 1st Place - Sunriver Resort Runner Up - Bennington Properties

Sunriver Best Lunch 1st Place - Josie K's Runner Up - Cafe Sintra

Sunriver Best Nonprofit Event 1st Place - Sunriver Art Fair Runner Up - K9 Keg Pull

Sunriver Best Outdoor Event 1st Place - Sunriver Art Fair Runner Up - Christmas Tree Lighting

Sunriver Best Place for Live Music 1st Place - The Backyard Cafe & Bar Runner Up - Century Commons

Sunriver Best Restaurant 1st Place - South Bend Bistro Runner Up - Marcello's Cucina Italiana

Offering a good, hearty sandwich with a biscotti at a reasonable price By Nic Moye

J

osie K’s Deli & Kitchen is a family affair through and through. April Potesta and her sister, Lindsay Morris, own the restaurant, which is named after one of their grandmothers. “We wanted this all to be loosely based off of our family — our menus, our family recipes. We’re an Italian family so we have a whole bunch of grandmas with a whole bunch of different recipes. Grandma Josie created the biscotti recipe,” Potesta explains. Every sandwich ordered comes with chips and a biscotti. The “K” is in honor of their mother, Karen, who often helps out at the deli. Even sandwiches are named after family members. The Dagwood (turkey, ham, salami) was Morris’ favorite childhood sandwich while Potesta loved turkey, bacon and cheese — which she calls Piggy’s turkey after her childhood pig. Potesta says she was immersed in the food business from the beginning. Her parents owned an oldworld deli in Sonora, California, when she was a kid. Josie K’s also offers a breakfast burrito and bagels. The “Kitchen” part of the name covers the premade dinners available to take home. “We serve homemade take-and-bake products. We have lasagnas, meatloaf, meatballs, garlic breads.” Potesta says it’s a place you could grab breakfast, lunch and dinner in one trip. She says winning the Best of award was a surprise but credits the relationship with customers.

“I think the deli experience is gone. I think having that kind of old school artisan deli where you come in, people know your name, we cut everything fresh every single day…and we know our customers. They walk in. We know their sandwich. We know their name,” Potesta says. “So, people come in and if they don’t order their sandwich (the same way), we’ll question them like, ‘I thought you don’t like onions’ and they’re like ‘Oh yeah. I don’t like onions.’” She says she works hard to keep prices affordable and has a staff that’s been with her for years. “We have a very, very, very good team. Almost like a family,” Potesta says. “It’s just a good environment. It’s a fun team environment.” Josie K’s also has an annex in the Legend Taproom in La Pine. The restaurant will celebrate its fifth anniversary in the Sunriver Business Park Aug. 16. “We’re just really happy to be here and proud to support the community.” Josie K’s Deli & Kitchen Mon-Fri 8am-4:30pm, Sat 9am-4pm 56870 Venture Ln. Ste. 106S, Bend 541-241-5177 josiek.com Runner Up: Café Sintra

87 VOLUME 30 ISSUE 33 / AUGUST 13, 2026 / THE SOURCE

1st Place - Sunriver Brewing Runner Up - The Wallow

BEST LUNCH IN SUNRIVER

AUGUST 13, 2026 / BEND’S INDEPENDENT VOICE - NOW DAILY AT WWW.BENDSOURCE.COM

88

Your Local Market For All Things Seafood

Best Seafood 2022-2026

•FULL SERVICE SEAFOOD CASE• •FRESH AND FROZEN SEAFOOD• •POKE MADE FRESH DAILY• •SPECIALTY AND IMPORTED GROCERY ITEMS• •MADE IN HOUSE SUSHI• •SEAFOOD AND SUSHI PARTY PLATTERS• •GRAB AND GO  SALADS, SEAFOOD DIPS, COCKTAIL SHRIMP• •CAFE WITH FRESH, MADE TO ORDER DISHES• & SO MUCH MORE! TACO TUESDAY AND $6 SUSHI WEDNESDAY EVERY WEEK

Grab a meal at our cafe or buy fresh fish from the market to cook at home. Try our Ahi Katsu Sandwich (Shown left) or our classics like Fish and Chips, Lobster Rolls, and Fish Tacos! Or order fresh seafood and sushi catering platters for your next event or holiday party! 921 NW. Mt. Washington Dr. Bend, OR 97701 SebastiansSeafoodBend.com (541)728-0696

BEST OF BEND Best Bagel 1st Place - Big-O-Bagels Runner Up - Haven Bagel + Coffee

Best Bakery 1st Place - Sparrow Bakery Runner Up - M's Bakery

Best BBQ 1st Place - Baldy's BBQ Runner Up - Runaround Sue Barbecue

Best Bowl 1st Place - Active Culture Runner Up - Cafe Yumm!

Best Breakfast 1st Place - McKay Cottage Runner Up - The Victorian Café

Best Breakfast Burrito 1st Place - Bend Breakfast Burrito Runner Up - Burrito Sunrise

Best Breakfast Sandwich 1st Place - Farmer's Deli Runner Up - Sparrow Bakery

Best Brunch 1st Place - The Lemon Tree Runner Up - McKay Cottage

Best Burger 1st Place - Bend Burger Co. Runner Up - Dandy's Drive-In

Best Smash Burger 1st Place - Americana Runner Up - Blue Eyes Burgers & Fries

Best Burrito 1st Place - Los Jalapeños Runner Up - Super Burrito

Best Caterer 1st Place - Bleu Bite Catering Runner Up - Luckey's Woodsman

Best Chef 1st Place - Carlos Anthony - Hawkeye & Huckleberry Lounge Runner Up - Nate King + Bill Dockter - BOSA Food & Drink

Best Chinese 1st Place - Chi Chinese & Sushi Bar Runner Up - Chan's Chinese Restaurant

Best Dessert

Best Lunch

1st Place - Bontá Gelato Runner Up - Elly's Ice Cream

1st Place - Valentine's Deli Runner Up - Jackson's Corner

Best Dinner

Best Lunch Deal

1st Place - Rancher Butcher Chef Runner Up - BOSA Food & Drink

1st Place - Pizza Mondo Runner Up - Toomie's Thai Cuisine

Best Doughnut

Best Mac n Cheese

1st Place - Richard's Donuts & Pastries Runner Up - The Dough Nut

1st Place - Brother Jon's Public House Runner Up - Wonderland Chicken Co.

Best Eggs Benedict

Best Mediterranean

1st Place - The Victorian Café Runner Up - McKay Cottage

1st Place - Kefi Fast Fresh Mediterranean Runner Up - Zorba the Greek

Best Falafel

Best Mexican

1st Place - Kefi Fast Fresh Mediterranean Runner Up - Shimshon

1st Place - El Sancho Runner Up - El Rodeo

Best Family Dining

Best Nachos

1st Place - Jackson's Corner Runner Up - Sunriver Brewing

1st Place - Luckey's Woodsman Runner Up - Active Culture

Best Fine Dining

Best New Food Cart - Open 1 year or less

1st Place - Ariana Restaurant Runner Up - Rancher Butcher Chef

Best Food Cart

1st Place - Tekka Tiger Runner Up - PotLuck

1st Place - The Dominican Runner Up - Cotto

Best New Restaurant - Open 1 year or less

Best Food Cart Lot

1st Place - Casa Sur Runner Up - Rosemary & Fox

1st Place - Dogwood at the Pine Shed Runner Up - The Podski

Best Patio Dining

Best Fried Chicken

1st Place - Pine Tavern Runner Up - Bend Brewing Co.

1st Place - The Tin Pig Runner Up - Wonderland Chicken Co.

Best Pizza

Best Fries

1st Place - Pizza Mondo Runner Up - Pinky G's Pizzeria

1st Place - Americana Runner Up - Blue Eyes Burgers & Fries

Best Sandwich/Deli

Best Gluten-Free Menu

1st Place - Valentine's Deli Runner Up - Cheba Hut

1st Place - Blissful Spoon Runner Up - Spork

Best Seafood

Best Indian

1st Place - Sebastian's Seafood and Specialty Market Runner Up - Anthony's in the Old Mill

1st Place - Taj Palace Runner Up - Spiceland

Best Italian 1st Place - BOSA Food & Drink Runner Up - Trattoria Sbandati

Best Japanese 1st Place - Yokocho Izakya Runner Up - Five Fusion

Best Sushi 1st Place - Kanpai Runner Up - Five Fusion

Best Tacos 1st Place - El Sancho Runner Up - Hablo Tacos

VOLUME 30 ISSUE 33 / AUGUST 13, 2026 / THE SOURCE

Best of Food

89

Best Mediterranean

AUGUST 13, 2026 / BEND’S INDEPENDENT VOICE - NOW DAILY AT WWW.BENDSOURCE.COM

90

Thank You

Bend!

Best of Food cont. Best Thai

Best Vegan 1st Place - Toasty Runner Up - A Broken Angel

Best Vegetarian 1st Place - Active Culture Runner Up - Toasty

Best Vietnamese

Best Sports Bar

1st Place - Porchlight Coffee Co. Runner Up - Backporch Coffee Roasters

1st Place - The Hideaway Runner Up - Sidelines Sports Bar & Grill

Best Happy Hour

Best Smoothie/Juice Bar

1st Place - Hawkeye & Huckleberry Lounge Runner Up - Lady Bird Cultural Society

1st Place - Mother's Juice Cafe Runner Up - Fix & Repeat

91

Best Wine Bar

VOLUME 30 ISSUE 33 / AUGUST 13, 2026 / THE SOURCE

1st Place - Wild Rose Runner Up - Dear Mom Cafe

Best Drive-Thru Coffee

Best Hazy 1st Place - Fresh Haze - Deschutes Brewing Runner Up - Because Science - Bend Brewing Co.

Best Hotel Bar

1st Place - Pho Viet & Cafe Runner Up - Dang’s Vietnamese Restaurant

1st Place - Minnie's - The Westman Hotel Runner Up - ROAM - Oxford Hotel

Best Wings

Best IPA

1st Place - Fire on the Mountain Runner Up - Wonderland Chicken Co.

1st Place - RPM - Boneyard Beer Runner Up - IPA - Van Henion Brewing

Best of Drinks

Best Light Beer

Best Bar 1st Place - Dogwood at The Pine Shed Runner Up - The Flamingo Room

Best Bartender 1st Place - Buck Bales - D&D Bar & Grill Runner Up - Ian - The Podski

Best Bloody Mary 1st Place - The Victorian Café Runner Up - Washington Dining & Cocktails

Best Boba 1st Place - Boba Tea Bend Runner Up - Teacupfuls

Best Brewer 1st Place - Tonya Cornett - UPP Liquids Runner Up - Nate Doss - Bevel Brewing

Best Brewery 1st Place - Monkless Belgian Ales Runner Up - Van Henion Brewing

1st Place - Kolsch - Van Henion Brewing Runner Up - Helles - Van Henion Brewing

Best Local Coffee 1st Place - Thump Coffee Runner Up - Backporch Coffee Roasters

Best Margarita 1st Place - Hola! Runner Up - El Sancho

Best Matcha 1st Place - Little Cole Coffee Co. Runner Up - Backporch Coffee Roasters

Best Milkshake 1st Place - Dandy's Drive-In Runner Up - Blue Eyes Burgers & Fries

Best NA Beer

Best Architect Firm 1st Place - Crabtree Architecture + Design Runner Up - Neal Huston & Associates Architects

Best Auto Body Repair 1st Place - Central Oregon Auto Body Runner Up - Precision Body & Paint

Best Auto Repair 1st Place - Import Performance Runner Up - Happy Danes Auto Repair

Best Bank Branch 1st Place - OnPoint Credit Union Runner Up - Wells Fargo

Best Barbershop 1st Place - L&K Barber Shop Runner Up - Blade & Barrel Barbershop

Best Branded Apparel & Goods Supplier 1st Place - Accolades Engraving Runner Up - N the Zone Ink

Best Dog Training 1st Place - Dancin' Woofs Runner Up - The Kind Canine

Best Seasonal Beer

Best Esthetician Services

1st Place - ABLIS Runner Up - Boneyard Elixir

Best Cider

Best Sour

1st Place - Bend Cider Co. Runner Up - Tumalo Cider

1st Place - Sea Plague - Funky Fauna Artisan Ales Runner Up - Ching Ching - Bend Brewing Co.

Best Coffee Shop

Best of Goods and Services

1st Place - Fresh Squeezed NA - Deschutes Brewery Runner Up - NoMo - Crux Fermentation Project 1st Place - Jubelale - Deschutes Brewery Runner Up - Red Chair - Deschutes Brewery

Best CBD Beverage

1st Place - Portello Lounge Runner Up - Amaterra Kitchen + Social Club

1st Place - EsthetixMD Runner Up - Megan Gerding Aesthetics & Nutrition

Best Florist 1st Place - Flowers by Eryn Runner Up - Donner Flower Shop

Best Golf Course 1st Place - Widgi Creek Golf Club Runner Up - Juniper Preserve

1st Place - Thump Coffee Runner Up - Backporch Coffee Roasters

Best Specialty Cocktail

Best Cold Brew Coffee

1st Place - Sayuri Sour - Five Fusion Runner Up - The Beetnik - Dogwood at The Pine Shed

1st Place - A+ Cleaning & Sanitation Runner Up - Central Oregon Locavore

Best Specialty Mocktail

Best Hair Salon

1st Place - Calm the F Down - San Simón Runner Up - Cool Hand Luke - Hawkeye & Huckleberry Lounge

1st Place - Lemon Drop Salon Runner Up - Salon June

1st Place - Thump Coffee Runner Up - Backporch Coffee Roasters

Best Dark Beer 1st Place - Black Butte Porter - Deschutes Brewery Runner Up - Cocoa Cow - Sunriver Brewing

Best Eco-Friendly Business

AUGUST 13, 2026 / BEND’S INDEPENDENT VOICE - NOW DAILY AT WWW.BENDSOURCE.COM 92

Best of Goods and Services cont. Best Handyman Services

Best Heating & Cooling 1st Place - Custom Plus Heating & A/C Runner Up - Bend Heating & Sheet Metal

Best House Cleaning Services 1st Place - A+ Cleaning & Sanitation Runner Up - JHB Cleaning Services

Best Landscape Service 1st Place - Bluestone Gardens & Landscape Runner Up - Venable Tree Service & Preservation

Best Lash Services 1st Place - Groovy Lash Runner Up - Wilderluxe Beauty

Best Law Firm 1st Place - High Desert Law Runner Up - Bryant, Lovlien and Jarvis

Best Local Farm 1st Place - Rainshadow Organics Runner Up - Well Rooted Farms

Best Local Fundraiser 1st Place - HSCO - Tuxes and Tails Runner Up - KIDS Center - Cork & Barrel

Best Local Home Builder 1st Place - Sierra James Construction Runner Up - Hayden Homes

Best Mani / Pedi 1st Place - Three Sisters Nails Runner Up - Crescent Nails

Best Mortgage Company 1st Place - A2Z Home Loans Runner Up - Boss Mortgage

Best Painting Company

1st Place - A Superior Property Management Co. Runner Up - Lava Ridge Property Management

Best Real Estate Company 1st Place - Bend Premier Real Estate Runner Up - Cascade Hasson Sotheby's International Realty

Best Restoration/Remodel 1st Place - Sierra James Construction Runner Up - Black Diamond Woodworks

Best Roofing Company 1st Place - Scott's Roofing Runner Up - CH Roofing & Construction

Best Solar Company 1st Place - Sunlight Solar Runner Up - e2 Solar

Best Tattoo Studio 1st Place - Adored Tattoo Boutique Runner Up - Monolith Tattoo Studio

Best Veterinary Practice 1st Place - Bend Veterinary Clinic Runner Up - Riverside Animal Hospital

Best Waxing

Best Health & Recreation Facility 1st Place - Juniper Swim & Fitness Center Runner Up - Larkspur Community Center

Best Massage Therapist 1st Place - Dejohn Bodywork Runner Up - Intuitive Touch

Best Medical / Cosmetic Enhancement Services 1st Place - EsthetixMD Runner Up - Elite Medi Spa

Best Medical Group 1st Place - High Lakes Health Care Runner Up - Summit Health

Best Pediatric Dental Group 1st Place - Deschutes Pediatric Dentistry Runner Up - Pediatric Dental Associates

Best Pediatric Medical Group 1st Place - Central Oregon Pediatric Associates Runner Up - Mosaic Community Health Pediatrics

Best Therapy/Counseling Practice

1st Place - Radiant Waxing Runner Up - Sage & Honey Spa

1st Place - Drishti Mental Health Runner Up - Rimrock Trails Treatment Services

Best of Health and Wellness

Best Yoga Studio

Best Adult Dental Group 1st Place - Bend Family Dentistry Runner Up - Skyline Dental

Best Alternative Health Clinic

1st Place - Namaspa Runner Up - Groove Yoga

Best of People Best Budtender

1st Place - Hawthorn Healing Arts Center Runner Up - Inspired Health

1st Place - Jacob Butterfield - Tokyo Starfish Runner Up - Krista Hunter

Best Chiropractic Clinic

Best Insurance Agent

1st Place - Wellness Doctor Runner Up - Armington Chiropractic

Best Day Spa

1st Place - Fabian Clark - Country Financial Runner Up - Eric Janssen - Country Financial

1st Place - Smile-A-Mile Painting Runner Up - Webfoot Home Improvements

1st Place - Jinsei Spa Runner Up - Anjou Spa

Best Interior Designer

Best Pet Boarding

Best Dermatology Group

1st Place - Pet Paradise Runner Up - Happy Tales Pet Resort

1st Place - Bend Dermatology Clinic Runner Up - Juniper Dermatology

1st Place - Legum Design Runner Up - Iron Roots

Best Pet Grooming

Best Fitness Studio

1st Place - Dirty Dog Grooming Runner Up - Muddy Paws Bathhouse

1st Place - Altius Pole Studio Runner Up - Barre3

Best Plumbing

Best Gym

1st Place - Severson Plumbing Runner Up - Roth Home

1st Place - SNAP Fitness Runner Up - Larkspur Community Center

Best Local Artist 1st Place - Megan Marie Myers Runner Up - Sheila Dunn

Best Local Band 1st Place - Not Your Ex Lover Runner Up - CPTN Over

93 VOLUME 30 ISSUE 33 / AUGUST 13, 2026 / THE SOURCE

1st Place - Ace Handyman Services Runner Up - Handy Home Hero

Best Property Management

AUGUST 13, 2026 / BEND’S INDEPENDENT VOICE - NOW DAILY AT WWW.BENDSOURCE.COM 94

Best of People cont. Best Local Elite Athlete

Best Local Influencer 1st Place - The Bend Foodie Runner Up - Fertile Liza

1st Place - Boys and Girls Club of Central Oregon Runner Up - Family Access Network

Best Nonprofit Serving Health and Environment

Best Local Radio Personality

1st Place - The Environmental Center Runner Up - Oregon Natural Desert Association

1st Place - Kris 92/9 Runner Up - Dave Clemens KQAK 105.7

Best Open Mic

Best Realtor

1st Place - The Commons Cafe & Taproom Runner Up - Silver Moon Brewing

1st Place - Tiffany Clark Runner Up - Stormy Clark

Best Rabble Rouser 1st Place - Nancy Zadoff Runner Up - Caleb Trowbridge

Best Tattoo Artist 1st Place - Chase Tafoya Runner Up - Taya Nolan

Best Place To Work (over 50 employees) 1st Place - Hayden Homes Runner Up - Whispering Winds Retirement

Best Place To Work (under 50 employees)

Best Bookstore 1st Place - Roundabout Books Runner Up - Dudley's Bookshop Cafe

Best Car Dealership 1st Place - Subaru of Bend Runner Up - Kendall Toyota

Best CBD Company 1st Place - ABLIS Runner Up - Metolious Wellness

Best Children’s Clothing 1st Place - Hopscotch Kids Runner Up - Stone Soup

Best Clothing Consignment 1st Place - Cosa Cura Runner Up - Truffle Pig Trading Co.

Best Dispensary 1st Place - Tokyo Starfish Runner Up - Oregrown

Best Furniture Consignment

Best TV Personality

1st Place - A+ Cleaning & Sanitation Runner Up - Tokyo Starfish

1st Place - Roundabouts Home Consignments Runner Up - Furnish Hope

1st Place - Emily Kirk Runner Up - Tracee Tuesday

Best Radio Station

Best Gift Store

1st Place - KPOV 88.9 Runner Up - 92/9

1st Place - ju-bee-lee Runner Up - Modern Games

Best Senior Living Community

Best Grocery Store

1st Place - Whispering Winds Retirement Runner Up - Touchmark

1st Place - Newport Ave Market Runner Up - Market of Choice

Best Spot for a Night Out with the Crew

Best Home Décor

Best of Places Best Indoor Music Venue 1st Place - Volcanic Theatre Pub Runner Up - Silver Moon Brewing

Best Locals' Hangout 1st Place - Hayden Homes Amphitheater Runner Up - The Podski

Best Locals' Night 1st Place - Bevel Brewing Runner Up - On Tap

Best Lodging 1st Place - The Oxford Hotel Runner Up - The Westman

1st Place - Dogwood at The Pine Shed Runner Up - The Coyote

Best Staycation Destination 1st Place - Sunriver Resort Runner Up - Brasada Ranch

Best Trivia Night 1st Place - Silver Moon Brewing Runner Up - Bevel Brewing

Best Wedding Venue

1st Place - Lark Mountain Modern Runner Up - Borgo Rosati

Best Indoor Plant Store 1st Place - Somewhere That's Green Runner Up - Desert Rose Cactus Lounge

Best Jewelry Store 1st Place - Silverado Runner Up - Saxon's Fine Jewelers

Best Liquor Store 1st Place - 3rd Street Beverage Runner Up - Trailhead Liquor

Best Nonprofit Serving Animal Welfare

1st Place - Sunriver Resort Runner Up - Aspen Hall

1st Place - Humane Society of Central Oregon Runner Up - Street Dog Hero

Best of Shopping

1st Place - Johnson Brothers Appliances Runner Up - Standard TV & Appliance

Best Antique Store

Best Men’s Clothing

1st Place - Iron Horse Runner Up - Gathered Wares

1st Place - Revolvr Menswear Runner Up - Vanilla Urban Threads

Best Nonprofit Serving Arts/Culture 1st Place - Cascade School of Music Runner Up - Tower Theatre Foundation

Best Local Appliance Store

Best Nonprofit Serving Basic Needs

Best Beauty Boutique

Best Nursery/ Garden Center

1st Place - Wren & Wild Runner Up - Lemon Drop Salon

1st Place - The Giving Plate Runner Up - NeighborImpact

1st Place - Moonfire & Sun Garden Center Runner Up - Eastside Gardens

Best Bike Shop

Best Outdoor Clothing Store

1st Place - Pine Mountain Sports Runner Up - Sunnyside Sports

1st Place - Mountain Supply Runner Up - The Gear Fix

95 VOLUME 30 ISSUE 33 / AUGUST 13, 2026 / THE SOURCE

1st Place - Max King Runner Up - Casey Sherrel

Best Nonprofit Serving Education, Families and Children

AUGUST 13, 2026 / BEND’S INDEPENDENT VOICE - NOW DAILY AT WWW.BENDSOURCE.COM 96

Best Outdoor Gear Shop 1st Place - The Gear Fix Runner Up - Mountain Supply

Best Pet Store 1st Place - Bend Pet Express Runner Up - Local Paws

Best Place to Buy Art 1st Place - The Workhouse Runner Up - Tumalo Art Co.

Best Place to Buy Swimwear

Best Thrift Store

1st Place - Vanilla Urban Threads Runner Up - Soul Bella

1st Place - HSCO Thrift Store Runner Up - REgroup Thrift Store

Best Shoe Store

Best Toy Store

1st Place - Bend Shoe Co Runner Up - Footzone

1st Place - Leapin' Lizards Toy Co. Runner Up - Learning Express

97

Best Ski/Snowboard Shop

Best Vintage Clothing

1st Place - Powder House Ski & Patio Runner Up - Tactics

1st Place - Old Boy Vintage Runner Up - Revival Vintage

VOLUME 30 ISSUE 33 / AUGUST 13, 2026 / THE SOURCE

Best of Shopping cont.

Best Smoking Accessories

Best Women’s Clothing

1st Place - Hempies Runner Up - MidTown Direct Smoke Shop

1st Place - Vanilla Urban Threads Runner Up - Hempies

BEST OF REDMOND Redmond Best Adult Dental Group 1st Place - Gilmore Dental Runner Up - Keener Family Dentistry

Redmond Best Auto Repair 1st Place - Redmond Auto Service Tire Pros Runner Up - Robirts Auto Care

Redmond Best Bar 1st Place - Wayfarer Club Runner Up - The Hideaway

Redmond Best Barbershop 1st Place - Aziz Crew Runner Up - The Station Barbershop

Redmond Best Boutique

Redmond Best Fitness Studio

Redmond Best Margarita

1st Place - Redmond Athletic Club Runner Up - Love Bird Yoga

1st Place - Hola! Runner Up - Xalisco Latin Cuisine

Redmond Best Food Cart

Redmond Best Mexican

1st Place - Jonny's Joint Runner Up - Cascade Alchemy Bowls

1st Place - Xalisco Latin Cuisine Runner Up - Mazatlan Mexican Restaurant

Redmond Best Food Cart Lot 1st Place - Blacksmith Public House Runner Up - Dry Canyon Club

Redmond Best Gift Shop 1st Place - Welcome Home Runner Up - Lady Bug Flowers & Gifts

Redmond Best Hair Salon 1st Place - Wilderluxe Beauty Runner Up - Hip Chicks Salon

Redmond Best Mortgage Co 1st Place - Boss Mortgage Runner Up - Fairway Home Mortgage

Redmond Best New Food Cart 1st Place - Top Dogs Runner Up - La Bonita Brunch

Redmond Best New Restaurant/Bar

1st Place - Willow Wild Runner Up - Desert Prairie

Redmond Best Happy Hour

1st Place - Kook'i Runner Up - La Catrina Chingona

Redmond Best Breakfast

1st Place - Wayfarer Club Runner Up - Feast Food Co.

Redmond Best Nonprofit

1st Place - Brand 44 N Runner Up - One Street Down Cafe

Redmond Best Insurance Agent

1st Place - ClearPath Healthcare Runner Up - BrightSide Animal Shelter

Redmond Best Breakfast Burrito

1st Place - Jake Waardenburg - State Farm Runner Up - Brian Myers - State Farm

Redmond Best Nonprofit Event

1st Place - Jonny's Joint Runner Up - La Bonita Brunch

Redmond Best Brewery/Brewpub

Redmond Best Locals' Hangout 1st Place - General Duffy's Waterhole Runner Up - Wild Ride Brewing

1st Place - Festival of Trees - ClearPath Healthcare Runner Up - Brightside Gala

Redmond Best Painting Company

1st Place - Wild Ride Brewing Runner Up - Cascade Lakes Brewing

Redmond Best Lodging

Redmond Best Burger

1st Place - SCP Redmond Hotel Runner Up - Eagle Crest Resort

1st Place - Redmond Burger Co. Runner Up - Jonny's Joint

Redmond Best Lunch

Redmond Best Coffee Shop

1st Place - Yi's Wok Runner Up - Feast Food Co.

1st Place - Tite Knot Craft Coffee Runner Up - Junction Roastery

Redmond Best Mani/Pedi

Redmond Best Place for Live Music

Redmond Best Dessert

1st Place - Redmond Nails Runner Up - Hip Chicks Salon

1st Place - General Duffy's Waterhole Runner Up - Blacksmith Public House

1st Place- Kook'i Runner Up - Ida's Cupcake Café

1st Place - Smile-A-Mile Painting Runner Up - Paint Pros Central Oregon

Redmond Best Pizza 1st Place - Grace and Hammer Runner Up - Jersey Boys Pizzeria

BEST ROOFER REDMOND

BEST ROOFER BEND

98 AUGUST 13, 2026 / BEND’S INDEPENDENT VOICE - NOW DAILY AT WWW.BENDSOURCE.COM

CENTRAL OREGON’S

MOST TRUSTED ROOFER ROOF REPLACEMENT • ROOF REPAIR • METAL ROOFING • COMMERCIAL ROOFING

RATED 4.9 300+ 5 STAR REVIEWS ON GOOGLE

20+ YEARS

SERVING CENTRAL OREGON SINCE 2003

15-YEAR LEAK FREE WARRANTY

YOUR HOME IS YOUR BIGGEST INVESTMENT. LET US HELP YOU PROTECT YOUR LEGACY FREE ROOF INSPECTIONS

We’ll check your roof from top to bottom.

INSURANCE CLAIM HELP

We work with your insurance for you.

HONEST RECOMMENDATIONS

WE'LL CLEAN UP TO 20' OF YOUR GUTTERS FOR FREE WHEN GETTING A ROOF QUOTE

We’ll give you the facts and nothing you don’t need.

NO-PRESSURE ESTIMATES Clear pricing. No sales pressure.

SCAN FOR A FREE INSTANT ESTIMATE

THE SCOTT’S ROOFING TEAM PROUDLY SERVING

BEND • REDMOND • SISTERS SUNRIVER • PRINEVILLE CCB #248895 • (541) 275-9399 • SCOTTSROOF.COM

BEST OF REDMOND CONT. Redmond Best Roofing

1st Place - Jeff Larkin Realty Runner Up - Trout Realty

1st Place - Scott's Roofing Runner Up - Tin Shield Roofing

Redmond Best Restaurant

Redmond Best Taco

1st Place - Feast Food Co. Runner Up - Brickhouse

1st Place - Axel's Taco Shop Runner Up - El Imperio

Redmond Best Veterinary Practice 1st Place - Cinder Rock Veterinary Clinic Runner Up - Redmond Veterinary Clinic

BEST OF SISTERS Sisters Best Bar/Brewpub

Sisters Best Gift Shop

Sisters Best Lunch

1st Place - Hardtails Outlaw Country Dive Bar & Grill Runner Up - The Barn

1st Place - Bedouin Runner Up - The Hen's Tooth

1st Place - Sisters Meat and Smokehouse Runner Up - Luckey's Woodsman

Sisters Best Boutique

Sisters Best Happy Hour

Sisters Best New Restaurant/Bar

1st Place - Bedouin Runner Up - Blue Burro

1st Place - Hardtails Outlaw Country Dive Bar & Grill Runner Up - The Barn

Sisters Best Breakfast

Sisters Best Locals' Hangout

Sisters Best Nonprofit Event

1st Place - Cottonwood Cafe Runner Up - Sisters Bakery

1st Place - The Barn Runner Up - Hardtails Outlaw Country Dive Bar & Grill

1st Place - Sisters Folk Festival Runner Up - Sisters Quilt Show

Sisters Best Coffee Shop 1st Place - Sisters Coffee Runner Up - Fika Sisters Coffeehouse

Sisters Best Food Cart

Sisters Best Lodging 1st Place - FivePine Lodge Runner Up - Black Butte Lodge

1st Place - Boone Dog Pizza Runner Up - Brunchies

1st Place - Three Finger Jack Tavern Runner Up - The McArthur

Sisters Best Place for Live Music 1st Place - The Belfry Runner Up - The Barn

Sisters Best Restaurant 1st Place - The Open Door Runner Up - Luckey's Woodsman

BEST OF SUNRIVER Sunriver Best Bar/Brewpub

Sunriver Best Locals' Hangout

Sunriver Best Outdoor Event

1st Place - Sunriver Brewing Runner Up - The Wallow

1st Place - Sunriver Brewing Runner Up - Century Commons

1st Place - Sunriver Art Fair Runner Up - Christmas Tree Lighting

Sunriver Best Breakfast

Sunriver Best Lodging

1st Place - Café Sintra Runner Up - Sunriver Brewing

1st Place - Sunriver Resort Runner Up - Bennington Properties

Sunriver Best Place for Live Music

Sunriver Best Food Cart

Sunriver Best Lunch

1st Place - Zorba the Greek Runner Up - Wonderland Chicken Co.

1st Place - Josie K's Runner Up - Café Sintra

Sunriver Best Happy Hour

Sunriver Best Nonprofit Event

1st Place - Village Bar and Grill Runner Up - Owl's Nest

1st Place - Sunriver Art Fair Runner Up - K9 Keg Pull

1st Place - The Backyard Cafe & Bar Runner Up - Century Commons

Sunriver Best Restaurant 1st Place - South Bend Bistro Runner Up - Marcello's Cucina Italiana

99 VOLUME 30 ISSUE 33 / AUGUST 13, 2026 / THE SOURCE

Redmond Best Real Estate Co

AUGUST 13, 2026 / BEND’S INDEPENDENT VOICE - NOW DAILY AT WWW.BENDSOURCE.COM

100

C

Island Barbecue: Beyond Brisket CHOW Roman’s The new food truck at The Abbey blends American smoke with Asian and Pacific Island flavors

101

T

he first bite of Roman’s Pork Belly Burnt Ends makes it clear this is not your typical barbecue joint. The exterior has the caramelized crispness that good burnt ends demand, while the inside remains surprisingly meaty with just enough rich fat to carry the smoky flavor. Instead of leaning into heavy sauces and oversized portions, Roman’s Island Barbecue takes barbecue in a different direction by blending American smoking techniques with bright Asian and Pacific Island flavors. The new food truck, which opened in May at 900 SE Wilson Ave. outside The Abbey Taproom, is carving out a niche for diners looking to venture beyond familiar brisket, ribs and mac and cheese. Roman’s menu is built around live fire cooking, whether the food is smoked or grilled, and the result is barbecue that feels lighter and fresher than the traditional Texas style many diners know. Owner Roman was cooking and serving customers during my visit, greeting guests with genuine enthusiasm while explaining unfamiliar ingredients and dishes. It quickly became obvious that this is more than another food truck. It is a personal project rooted in sharing flavors that mean something to him, while introducing diners to cuisines they may not have experienced before. The menu offers plenty of opportunities to explore. There is Tri Tip with sambal, the spicy Southeast Asian chili sauce, served alongside namul, a rotating selection of seasoned vegetables.

Smoked whole wings come with wasabi aioli, while grilled ahi is paired with a green garlic sauce. A smoked pork sandwich topped with shishito citrus slaw and house aioli offers a more familiar option, and a market salad changes with the seasons. Those dining together can order the $36 barbecue platter for two, making it easy to sample several specialties in one meal. My order centered around the Pork Belly Burnt Ends with Chamorro red rice, a traditional dish from Guam and the Mariana Islands made with white rice colored and flavored with earthy annatto. While I am not usually a pork belly enthusiast, these burnt ends won me over immediately. They were smoky, flavorful and beautifully crisp around the edges without becoming dry. Many pork belly dishes rely on excessive fat for richness, but these struck a satisfying balance between meat and fat, allowing the smoky flavor to shine. The Chamorro red rice was my first introduction to the island staple. The rice had an earthy, slightly nutty flavor that paired naturally with the pork, although I found it a bit dry on its own. Fortunately, a little creativity solved that problem. I drizzled some of the bright citrus dipping sauce from the lumpia over the rice, adding moisture and a welcome burst of acidity that tied the plate together. The lumpia itself was another standout. Filled with pork and shrimp, the crisp spring rolls were fried to a satisfying crunch without becoming greasy. The citrus dipping sauce added just enough brightness to balance the Donna Britt

A summer lunch from Roman’s Island Barbecue truck features Pork Belly Burnt End Skewers, Lumpia (egg rolls), Chamorro red rice and seasonal veggies.

Roman’s Island Barbecue

Smoked and grilled meats are the heart of Roman’s Island Barbecue.

richness of the filling, making it easy to understand why they have become one of the truck’s popular sides. Even the coleslaw broke away from barbecue convention. Instead of the usual creamy mixture built around green cabbage, Roman uses red cabbage tossed in a light cilantro and lime dressing with shishito peppers. The result is crisp, refreshing and restrained, offering a cooling contrast to the smoky meats without overpowering them. That balance defines much of Roman’s cooking. Rather than burying smoked meats beneath heavy sauces or sugary glazes, the dishes rely on clean flavors, fresh herbs and carefully chosen accompaniments. The barbecue remains the centerpiece, but every component feels thoughtfully composed. Several menu items have already earned a spot on my list for a return visit. The smoked whole wings with wasabi aioli sound like an ideal pairing of smoke and spice, while the smoked pork sandwich promises another opportunity to experience Roman’s lighter approach to barbecue. Seasonal vegetables and fresh baked sesame flatbread brushed with Thai basil butter provide even more reasons to see how the menu evolves over time. Part of the experience extends beyond the food truck itself. Roman’s sits directly outside The Abbey Taproom at Monkless Belgian Ales’ production facility, making it easy to enjoy a thoughtfully paired Belgian style beer alongside your meal. If you are unsure what to order, the bartenders inside are happy to recommend pairings that complement Roman’s flavors, adding another layer to the experience.

Bend has no shortage of barbecue, but Roman’s Island Barbecue offers something refreshingly different. It respects traditional smoking while embracing influences from Asia and the Pacific Islands, creating dishes that feel both familiar and new. More importantly, the food reflects the passion of the person preparing it. Every plate feels handcrafted, every conversation feels genuine and every dish invites diners to discover a new combination of flavors. Roman’s Island Barbecue is worth seeking out, whether you are a barbecue devotee or simply someone looking to try something beyond the ordinary. Come with an open mind, order something you have never had before and let the smoke, citrus and spice introduce you to a different side of barbecue. Chances are you will already be planning your next visit before you finish the first one. Roman’s Island Barbecue Wed-Sat Noon-8pm The Abbey Taproom 900 SE Wilson Ave., Bend, OR romansislandbbq.com IG: romans.island

• • • •

Don’t Miss

Pork Belly Burnt Ends Pork and Shrimp Lumpia Shishito and Citrus Slaw Ask The Abbey bartenders for a Belgian beer pairing

VOLUME 30 ISSUE 33 / AUGUST 13, 2026 / THE SOURCE

By Donna Britt

AUGUST 13, 2026 / BEND’S INDEPENDENT VOICE - NOW DAILY AT WWW.BENDSOURCE.COM

102

LITTLE BITES By Nicole Vulcan Olive & May Nears Its Opening Date

Nicole Vulcan

T

he iconic building on the northwest corner of Wall Street and Franklin Avenue in downtown Bend now has a tentative opening date, offering patrons something of a Bend history lesson along with its food and drink. Olive & May is the creation of Peter Kost, Caprice Neely and Fergal Donoher — all who have at least partial ownership in Ken’s Artisan Pizza in Bend. The new restaurant, located in the former Drake location and tentatively set to open Sunday, Aug. 22, is named for two women who made their mark on Bend’s history: May Arnold and Olive McKay. As part of the local women’s league, in 1920 Arnold gathered 1,500 signatures to get the city to purchase the 10.5 acres that is now Drake Park from owners Clyde and Olive McKay. “We wanted to just pay some homage to these ladies, and thought their names went well together,” explained Neely. The homage continues with a wall of photos of notable Bend women (and photos of the owners’ mothers, to boot), as well as a 1920s art-deco décor. “The type of glassware they we’re using, and plateware, and all that kind of stuff — it all harkens back a little bit to that deco era,” Kost told the Source. Olive & May’s menu is based on foods from the northern Mediterranean, and will rotate often. “How I look at that is a bit of Spanish, French, Italian and Greek. The menu will rotate throughout the seasons, but always using influences from those areas, with our own twists,” Kost said.

On the drinks menu, expect classics — another homage to the 1920s — including a Paper Plane, classic Martini, Negroni and the Malfy Mint Gimlet. On the current food menu, crafted by Kost and Chef Josef “Joey” Kothenbeutel (formerly of Drake), look for seafood-forward appetizers including Sautéed Mussels, Grilled Octopus and Scallops, along with Pomegranate Glazed Baby Back Ribs and Saganaki, a seared Greek cheese. (Yum!) The dinner menu includes several options for pasta, as well as Black Cod, Halibut Cheeks, Bavette Steak and a Double-Cut Pork Chop. With its central location, the owners hope it becomes a neighborhood hangout for locals and the many people who frequent Bend from parts elsewhere, as well as being a place that catches tourists’ eyes as they stroll by. That’s exactly how Neely and husband Donoher first discovered Drake — visiting from Portland and falling in love with the city, and the eye-catching corner restaurant. Experiences like that later prompted them to make a full-time move to Bend. “For our locals, what we would really hope for is that much like when we first started to come into to Drake, is that it becomes like a weekly stop,” Neely said. “It’s like the comfortable place to come and be a regular, eating-out destination.” Olive & May

Tentative opening Sun., Aug. 22 Open 4:30-9pm Mon, Wed-Thu, 4:30-10pm Fri-Sat 801 NW Wall St., Bend oliveandmay-bend.com

VOLUME 30 ISSUE 33 / AUGUST 13, 2026 / THE SOURCE

The former Drake restaurant, now styled like a 1920s neighborhood hangout, has a tentative opening date of Aug. 22

103

AUGUST 13, 2026 / BEND’S INDEPENDENT VOICE - NOW DAILY AT WWW.BENDSOURCE.COM

104

C

CULTURE

Chasing Dark Skies

Learning to photograph the moon, meteors and Milky Way in Central Oregon

W

hen Christian Heeb first turned his lens to the night sky, it wasn’t a dramatic career pivot so much as a natural next chapter. A longtime travel and nature photographer, Heeb says night work simply completes the story of a place. “If you travel in nature for photography, you capture all aspects — sunrise, canyon light and the night: the Milky Way, moon and the stars,” he explains. “With digital cameras, we finally had the tools to do it justice.” Heeb remembers early film days when capturing stars meant very long exposures and inevitable star trails. “Then digital sensors arrived,” he says. “On a tour in 2010 we tried new gear and the first clear Milky Way image we got made us say, ‘Holy moly — look what these cameras can do.’” Advances in sensor technology and dynamic range have made night photography far more forgiving. Today’s cameras let photographers capture stars and moonlit landscapes with much less noise, putting this work within reach of enthusiastic amateurs as well as professionals. Central Oregon is, Heeb says, one of the best places in North America to put that new capability to use. East of Bend, the population thins and light pollution drops dramatically. The high desert climate brings low humidity and clean air, producing especially crisp night skies. While Heeb nods to the outback of Australia and remote parts of Africa as worldclass dark-sky locations, he points to Central Oregon’s combination of accessibility and quality as a unique draw. That combination is part of why Sunriver’s recent dark-sky designation matters. Sunriver offers the kind of amenities visitors expect — hotels, restaurants and services — while protecting the night-sky environment.

Christian Heeb

Canoe on Sparks Lake with Mount Bachelor in the background under a starry sky.

Heeb says that pairing convenience with excellent viewing conditions makes Bend and Sunriver an ideal destination for urban photographers wanting a short trip to dramatic nightscapes. For beginners, however, shooting at night poses practical challenges beyond simply pointing a camera and pressing the shutter. Heeb notes a handful of common mistakes he sees in workshops. The first is a misconception that longer exposures are always better. “People think you need very long exposures, and they overexpose the moon or blur the stars,” he says. Instead, managing exposure length, proper ISO, and limiting blur are crucial. Focus is another difficulty: auto-focus often fails in the dark, so Heeb prefers manual-focus lenses and helps participants get them sharp. Gear matters, but not as much as you might think. Heeb recommends a fast wide-angle lens — ideally f/2.8 or faster — and a capable sensor (full-frame Bend Astro Photography

bodies deliver the best results). “Lenses at f/3.8–4.5 are doable, but you lose quality,” he warns. Still, he urges newbies not to let gear obsession stand in the way. “It’s like golfing: better clubs help, but skill matters more.” One of the workshop’s most useful practical lessons is foreground handling. A striking sky needs a compelling foreground, but at night you can barely see where you’re stepping. Heeb’s advice: scout the location an hour before sunset. “Find your spot, mark your car, leave lights on or use your phone so you can find your way back,” he says. Planning for safety and navigation keeps the focus on photography instead of a stressful night hike. Light painting — using a flashlight or headlamp to illuminate foreground elements — is another technique Heeb teaches carefully. Many novices overdo it, producing flat or obviously artificial-looking results. Heeb advocates subtle, side-lit “brushstrokes” with a soft headlamp: paint gradually from an angle, not from the camera’s direction, to build contrast and avoid hotspots. “Think of it as painting a canvas,” he says. “Small strokes, layered lightly.” Heeb’s workshops follow a predictable, participant-friendly rhythm. Groups meet in town; the instructor chooses a location based on conditions like smoke or clouds. A short technique briefing precedes sunset scouting and tripod setup. The instructor helps set exposure and focus (manual focus is emphasized), demonstrates light painting, and directs group shooting. Sessions typically last two to three hours, after which the group reconvenes for processing follow-up

sessions online or in person — an important part of the workflow, Heeb stresses: “Processing is a major step in getting a good photo.” Timing workshops to coincide with meteor showers this month, on Aug. 12 and 13, such as the Perseids, further ups the chance of dramatic captures. “Peak meteor nights give you more opportunities to photograph meteors,” Heeb says. It’s a crowd-pleasing event angle — similar to timing an African safari for migration season. Who should attend a workshop? Heeb says beginners who at least know the basics of their camera benefit most. “It helps if the camera isn’t brand-new in the box,” he laughs. Small groups — four to six participants — let instructors give hands-on help. While undecided photographers can try YouTube tutorials, Heeb argues that the first guided night in the field pays off in safety, efficiency and confidence. “It’s easier and safer to go out with a local the first time. They show you where to go and how to behave in the wilderness. It saves time and mistakes.” Heeb also stresses independence from commercial influence: his workshops aren’t sponsored, and he doesn’t push specific brands. That freedom, he says, lets instructors recommend what’s genuinely useful rather than what a sponsor sells. For many participants, the “aha” moment is simple and immediate: when the stars appear on the camera’s LCD and they realize they’ve captured the Milky Way. For instructors like Heeb, that reaction is the payoff of a night’s work. “Some people struggle with focus or settings,” he says. “When they finally see a sharp image with the stars, they’re ecstatic.” As interest in night photography has matured over the past decade, Heeb sees a steady, not exploding, demand. The early surge has leveled into a reliable stream of students and visitors who value the region’s dark skies. For photographers who want to learn quickly, safely and with better results, Heeb’s message is clear: under the guidance of an experienced local, the night sky is not just visible — it’s teachable. Cascade Center of Photography ccophoto.com 541-241-2266

VOLUME 30 ISSUE 33 / AUGUST 13, 2026 / THE SOURCE

By Wally Hofmann

105

AUGUST 13, 2026 / BEND’S INDEPENDENT VOICE - NOW DAILY AT WWW.BENDSOURCE.COM

106

VOTED Best Antique Store

2001-2026

THANK YOU We are open during road construction! Thank you, Central Oregon, for voting us Best Antiques in Bend! We are grateful to be part of this incredible community and owe a big thank you to our staff whose hard work keeps our store running smoothly, our vendors who continue to add a diverse unique array of items to our inventory and, most of all our loyal customers, whose support has kept us in the business for the last 54 years! You are the reason we have made it this far and STILL want to keep going!

EDDIE SWISHER

632 NE 1ST STREET, BEND 541.382.5175

SC

SCREEN

The Peter Problem

107

By Jared Rasic Sony

W

hat makes Spider-Man the greatest superhero of alltime isn’t his ability to swing through New York City on sticky webs shot from his wrists, nor is it how he protects humanity from villains like Green Goblin and The Vulture. I mean, those feats are certainly impressive, but what makes Spider-Man the absolute best is his secret identity: Peter Parker, the one who sacrifices everything for his friends, for his city, the universe and complete strangers. It’s wild to realize that Tom Holland has now been Spider-Man for a decade. He's logged more appearances as the character than anyone else, and with “Spider-Man: Brand New Day,” it feels like he has settled into the character more than any of his predecessors. While I love Tobey Maguire’s awkward Peter Parker and grew to respect Andrew Garfield’s wise-cracking Spider-Man, Holland perfectly embodies both sides of the hero. He was cast young enough to pull off playing the friendly neighborhood high schooler and now that Holland is 30, we get to watch an adult Peter Parker struggle through life in the ways only he can. Director Destin Daniel Cretton and writers Chris McKenna and Erik Sommers understand a key truth about Spidey that makes “Brand New Day” arguably the most complete and satisfying Spider-Man movie since Sam Raimi’s “Spider-Man 2” in 2004: whatever triumphs Spider-Man achieves, the exact inverse must happen to Peter Parker. He possesses the classic “Parker Luck” that always comes back around to ruin his personal life. There’s an arc in the comics from a few years ago where

Peter Parker becomes a billionaire tech mogul, only to lose his company and every single dime within a year or two. Parker can’t catch a break, but he never gives up. He wouldn’t even know how. That’s why we love him. I want to avoid most plot details because experiencing the film’s twists and turns blindly is an absolute joy. When we last saw Peter, the world had discovered his identity, forcing him to have Doctor Strange cast a spell to forget him. As a result, his girlfriend MJ (Zendaya, bringing so much life to the character) and best friend Ned (a joyful Jacob Batalon) have no idea who he is. “Spider-Man: Brand New Day” isn’t built around an unstoppable new villain or a bloated CGI spectacle designed to set up five future Marvel Cinematic Universe projects. While a little bit of that corporate DNA exists, the filmmakers would much rather have you understand his isolation, sadness and humanity. The Marvel machine has produced its most grounded film in years.” If you are currently suffering from Superhero Movie Fatigue™, “Spider-Man: Brand New Day” might not entirely cure you, but its artful, thoughtful craftsmanship proves that our favorite heroes can mature alongside us. “Spider-Man: Brand New Day”

Dir. Destin Daniel Cretton Grade: ANow Playing at Regal Old Mill, McMenamins Old St. Francis, Sisters Movie House, Redmond Cinema, Madras Cinema 5.

A¯

VOLUME 30 ISSUE 33 / AUGUST 13, 2026 / THE SOURCE

“Spider-Man: Brand New Day” is a Marvel of human emotion

AUGUST 13, 2026 / BEND’S INDEPENDENT VOICE - NOW DAILY AT WWW.BENDSOURCE.COM

108

O

OUTSIDE Bend into Balance: Interviews with

Nathaniel Perullo and John O'Sullivan By Adriana Mariño

B

Nathaniel Perullo

l Su

end is not short of incredThe social life is mentally hard. I AM: What are the risks for the kids of having parible athletes, nor amazing love hanging out with my friends ents that are pressuring them too much? coaches and transformationall the time. And as much as I'd JS: What we know is what's called the three crital leaders. Nathaniel Perullo, love to be doing that, it's just not ical ingredients of doing any achievement activity. 2025 Under 19 National Boulder worth it to me to give up some- You need to enjoy what you do. Enjoyment needs Champion of the U.S., and John thing that I've worked so hard on. ownership, and those two things breed intrinsic O’Sullivan, founder of Changing AM: I can tell by listening to motivation, and intrinsic motivation is the fuel. But the Game project, are two top you that this motivation is all what happens is well-intentioned parents are like examples. Both shared profound coming from within; it's not your “but if you just did this, you'd be great.” They take reflections on the role of youth coaches, it's not your parents. Am away ownership a lot. The question I get a ton at parsports, intrinsic motivation and I wrong or is it all intrinsic? ent talks is people asking, “when is it supposed to the value of a “multi-movement NP: It's definitely pretty much stop being fun and start being competitive?” And the childhood.” all internal. My coaches have nev- answer to that is never. A lot of parents think that Excerpts from the podcast with er been, like, you have to win “we’ve got to stop [making] this being fun and we’ve Nathaniel Perullo (quotes are nationals this year, you have to got to be serious.” And they feel all this outside presabridged for print version): go win worlds, or you have to sure to do it. So, you're still seeing a high desertion Adriana Mariño: When you're podium. My coaches have always in youth sports because of this pressure. not climbing, how much are you asked me what do you want to AM: What does healthy parenting look like in thinking about it? do? What is your goal? My coach, terms of sports? Or maybe we should take a step Nathaniel Perullo: All the Mike Rougeux [Bend Endurance back. Why do sports as a kid? What's the value of time. That's the last thought, and Academy], told me that I was 14 team sports? the first thought in the morning. when he heard me vocalize JS: It's such a great question. And it seems Nathaniel Perullo my goals for the first Even in class sometimes, I'll doze like an obvious question, right? But I Joh nO off and I'm thinking about climbtime, and I said I think what people should realize is ' ing, what my climb is going to look like, what my want to do world cup, and he's like, that sports are neither good nor bad. round's going to look like, how I want to feel after. “OK, I'll help you get there.” He's In my first book, I had this great And it's constant. I'll dream about it most nights. never been hard on me, like, “you quote. Rainier Martins said sports It's a huge part of my life. And I feel like that to be have to do this or I want you to do is like a double-edged sword, and good at something, you’ve got to be obsessed with it. get this result at this comp.” It's swung in the right direction, it can I think that the reason I have had a lot of success in always been internal for me. And be incredibly positive and swung this is because I'm so obsessed with climbing, think- same with my parents. Obviously, in the wrong direction, it can be ing about every little detail about a comp. they want me to win nationals, win incredibly damaging physically, J oh AM: How do you find that balance between aca- worlds, but there's never been that mentally, emotionally. And that sword n O ' S u l li v a n demics, your social life, and your athletic perfor- pressure of having someone else decide is swung by the adults. mance? where I need to be. I think that's been super Listen to the complete podcast with NP: It's definitely hard a lot of nights where important. I'm the only one that has control over I'll have homework and it’s like, do I do it or do I whether I train hard or not. All my motivation comes Nathaniel Perullo here: wake up really early and do it? It is not super hard within, and I don't need that external motivation. Listen to the complete podcast with for me to balance school. But the social aspect for However, Nathaniel’s intrinsic motivation is not sure, where it's like, oh, there's a party happening. always the norm among youth athletes. John O’ Sulli- John O’Sullivan here: Obviously, I can't drink or do anything because of van saw early the risks when it is the parents who are my climbing. If you're going to be this high-level ath- pressuring their children into unhealthy competition. —Adriana Mariño is the producer and host of Bend lete, you can't be doing all that. I think that the social John O’Sullivan: There was this 10-year-old aspect is definitely hard for me. Especially training competitive boys’ game, and the coaches are yelling into Balance. She is a board-certified functional medicine so much on the school nights. I have one night off, and screaming, and the parents are too, and every- health & wellness coach and a graduate of the 200-hour but it's mainly just climbing. That's it. I go alone to one's yelling at the ref who is 12. And I'm like, oh yoga teacher training at Namaspa and loves to swim, ski, the gym where I train most nights and it's definite- my god, what is happening here? And that's when I hike, bike, and travel. Adriana can be reached at adrimaly lonely. Sometimes I'll find myself missing all my decide maybe I can contribute to making the envi- rino@hotmail.com. friends and thinking what are they doing tonight? ronment better. And that was how the idea was born.

VOLUME 30 ISSUE 33 / AUGUST 13, 2026 / THE SOURCE

Competition, desire and parenting from two perspectives

109

li v

an

AUGUST 13, 2026 / BEND’S INDEPENDENT VOICE - NOW DAILY AT WWW.BENDSOURCE.COM

110

GO HERE By Julie Furnas Annual Midnight Event Creates Excitement in Central Oregon

111

SNCO

O

ne of the most famous meteor showers, the Perseid, is making its annual journey through the skies over Central Oregon. Perseid meteors are unique in that they are very small (the size of a grain of sand or small pebble), very fast and very, very bright. The showers occur in August, making them easy to watch in warm weather and clear, dark skies. The shower peaks on the night of Aug. 12 and into the morning of Aug. 13 but continues through Aug. 24. The Source talked with Alex Yeager, assistant manager at the Sunriver Nature Center & Observatory, about the meteor shower. the Source: How did the Perseid Meteor Shower get its name? Alex Yeager: Most meteor showers get their names from the constellation they appear to emerge from. If you traced all of the shooting stars in a meteor shower backward, they would appear to lead to a point in the constellation they are named after. So the Perseid meteor shower appears to originate from the constellation Perseus. tS: What causes meteor showers and when do they occur? AY: Meteor showers are caused by leftover particles from a celestial body, typically a comet, along its path around the Sun. This meteor shower comes from Comet Swift-Tuttle, which was last visible in 1992 and will not return until 2126. Earth passes through this trail of debris, and the particles collide with our atmosphere at extremely high speeds. tS: How are Perseid meteors different from others, and where do they come from?

AY: Perseid meteors come from debris left behind by Comet Swift-Tuttle. They enter Earth’s atmosphere at about 37 miles per second, making them some of the fastest meteors we see. Because of their speed, they often produce bright streaks and glowing trails that can linger briefly. Other meteor showers can come from different objects, including asteroid-like bodies such as 3200 Phaethon, which produces the Geminids in December. tS: How many meteors can people typically see during the peak? AY: Here in Central Oregon, you can expect to see 20 to 50 meteors per hour, with higher numbers the farther away from light pollution you go. tS: What are the best conditions for seeing the meteor shower? AY: You cannot beat this year’s viewing conditions. We will have a new moon, meaning the moon will not brighten the night sky. tS: What common misconceptions do people have about meteor showers? AY: People often expect to see multiple meteors per minute. There may be periods when you see a few in one minute, but especially if you are viewing from within a city, you should expect to see one every few minutes. tS: What would you like readers to know about this event and other happenings at SNCO? AY: We have public programs Tuesday through Sunday, and tickets can be reserved at SNCO.org. We have also just started our Field Trip Fund for the 2026–27 school year. This fund provides field trip scholarships to schools that cannot afford to visit us.

VOLUME 30 ISSUE 33 / AUGUST 13, 2026 / THE SOURCE

The Perseid meteor shower continues through Aug. 24

AUGUST 13, 2026 / BEND’S INDEPENDENT VOICE - NOW DAILY AT WWW.BENDSOURCE.COM

112

CR

Say Cheers to Summer with these Local Food and Drink Events celebrate, before the warm summer nights fade away By Nicole Vulcan Quan Nguyen / Unsplash

Champagne toast? At an upcoming event at Viaggio Wine Merchant, get five toasts instead.

A

h, summer. It’s hot, it’s smoky and it’s fleeting. For those looking to enjoy the fruits of the season before it gets away, here are a few upcoming food-and-drink events — heavy on the drink side — to get on your calendar right now. Aug. 15: Viaggio Chef’s Dinner and Wine Pairing Viaggio Wine Merchants has invited Chef Adrien Calmels back for a second round of chef's dinners, this one featuring a 10-course late-summer menu alongside Viaggio wines. The event is $160 and reservations are available by emailing info@viaggiowine.com. Aug. 21: Billecart-Salmon Champagne Tasting Seminar Billecart-Salmon isn’t a fish-related thing; rather, it’s one of the most iconic family-owned production outfits in France. At this event, held at Viaggio Wine Merchant, patrons can sample five exceptional champagnes. The fun goes from 5:30 to 7pm. Sign up at viaggiowine.com/events-offerings. Aug. 15 & 22: Destination Dinner Series at FivePine The Sisters hotel and event center is partnering with five local farms and ranches for its series that takes inspiration from around the world.

Two more dates are left in the series for the season, including Indian-inspired flavors on Aug. 15 and Mediterranean flavors on Aug. 22. The family-style main course at the Indian evening includes Samosa Chaat, Grilled Bone-In Chicken, rice and naan, with sweet milk dumplings served for dessert. At Mediterranean night Aug. 22, look for Citrus Brined Lamb, summer veggies and a tomato & cucumber salad, along with a Honey Pistachio Olive Oil Cake with Citrus Cream. A full bar with signature cocktails is available. Tickets are available at fivepine.com/specials/ destinations-dinner-series. Aug. 22 & 29: Tastings at Put a Cork In It Put a Cork In It, the far-west-side wine bar that just celebrated its oneyear anniversary, has two upcoming wine events to check out. On Aug. 22 is a tasting from Cop!ious Cellars from Santa Cruz, California. Try a White Blend, Viognier, Grenache Rosé and a GSM from 3 to 8pm. Then on Aug. 29 is a tasting of wines from Coyote Canyon Winery from south central Washington state. That event takes place from 3 to 7pm. Each tasting is $20, with fees waived when you buy two bottles or more.

VOLUME 30 ISSUE 33 / AUGUST 13, 2026 / THE SOURCE

CRAFT Check out these ways to

113

AUGUST 13, 2026 / BEND’S INDEPENDENT VOICE - NOW DAILY AT WWW.BENDSOURCE.COM

WELLNESS

114

Board Certified Plastic Surgeon (541) 316-0627 borstingmd.com

COLUMN

UNDERSTANDING INTIMACY

A COLUMN THAT FOSTERS DEEPER LOVE BETWEEN COUPLES By Dr. Jane Guyn

I was married for over 20 years to my former wife. We had a sexless marriage for the last couple of years, but I never had any stamina issues when we were still intimate. Since the divorce, I’ve been dating, and I finally found a really nice woman — we’re exclusive now. Everything is going well except for one problem: my performance. I’m 44, eat healthy, work out, and I’m very attracted to my partner. I don’t take any medications other than Viagra, which gives me headaches. I’m starting to dread sex, even though I love her. My doctor says there’s nothing medically wrong. Can you help? — Stressed Out About Sex in Bend

D

ear Stressed Out, I get this question all the time in my office, and the truth is, men have been given some misleading information about their sexuality their whole lives. They’re taught that arousal equals erection — and that’s often true. But it’s not always true, and when it isn’t, men tend to read it as failure. They worry they “have ED.” Real erectile dysfunction is a legitimate medical condition, but a lot of the time, that’s not what’s actually happening. Most of the men I see have already been cleared by a doctor before they ever sit down with me. There’s nothing physically wrong. The doctor has told them “the plumbing works just fine,” and they’re left upset and confused. That sounds like your situation. What they don’t realize is that a man’s body isn’t wired to prioritize sex during periods of stress. Think back to early human history: if something dangerous had interrupted sex, an erection in that moment would have been a liability, not an asset. The same wiring is still active today. Your body doesn’t distinguish between “danger” and “the low hum of everyday stress” — it just reads tension and responds accordingly. A nervous penis is a soft penis. So what’s a guy to do? Here’s the catch: worrying about your erections makes them less reliable, and unreliable erections make you worry more. It’s a loop. The way out isn’t trying harder — it’s the opposite. Talk to your partner about what’s going on. Remind her this isn’t a reflection of her or how attracted you are to her. Ask her to talk about it with you, openly, and to reassure you. Shift your focus from erection to sensation. Slow down. That’s genuinely it. I

know that’s easy to say and harder to do — but it works. Here’s what you (and your partner) need to remember: An erection isn’t the same thing as arousal. It’s one possible sign of arousal, not the whole picture. You can be turned on, present, and engaged without being hard. Treating softness as proof that nothing else is real is what causes the shutdown — not the stress itself. Evaluating yourself during intimacy is the problem, not the solution. Arousal requires more than excitement — it requires a felt sense of safety. When you’re tracking your own “performance” (“is this good enough, does she like this?”), you pull your nervous system into threat mode, which is the opposite of the relaxed state arousal actually needs. If it happens again, don’t panic. One difficult moment is information, not a diagnosis. What turns a single stressful episode into a lasting pattern is the story you tell yourself about it afterward. A partner’s reassurance — spoken out loud, not just assumed — does far more to break that cycle than trying to white-knuckle through it alone. You’re not alone in this. A significant number of men experience some version of this in their 40s. Keep your attention on pleasure, not performance. Reassure your partner it’s not about her. You’ve got this. Xoxo, Dr. Jane —Dr. Jane Guyn is a sexologist, intimacy coach, and author of Too Busy to Get Busy. She practices in Bend and writes Understanding Intimacy for the Source Weekly.

VOLUME 30 ISSUE 33 / AUGUST 13, 2026 / THE SOURCE

When Trying Too Hard Backfires: A Gentler Path Through Erectile Difficulty

115

REAL ESTATE Otis Craig Broker, CRS

FIND YOUR PLACE IN BEND

www.otiscraig.com

AUGUST 13, 2026 / BEND’S INDEPENDENT VOICE - NOW DAILY AT WWW.BENDSOURCE.COM

116

& 541.771.4824 ) otis@otiscraig.com

Kelly Johnson Broker Bend Premier Real Estate Kelly@GoBendHomes.com

541-610-5144

We will help you make informed decisions in today’s complicated real estate market. Lifetime locals providing top-tier service in Central Oregon for over 20 years.

“Love where you live!”

Licensed in the State of Oregon

Rhonda Garrison & Brittany Barton Brokers, Licensed in Oregon 541.279.1768 rhondagarrison1@gmail.com

TAKE ME HOME By Kelly Clark,

Broker REMAX Key Properties

Sunriver: A Central Oregon Treasure A place to relax and stargaze

Both are usually buying the same thing, even if they’d describe it differently: access. Access to the river, to golf, to the kind of stargazing you forget is possible once you’ve lived in a city for a while. A Sunriver property isn’t really valued by square footage. It’s valued by what you experience outside of its walls. The housing market in Sunriver still reflects a wide range of buyers. You’ve got small, older cabins that haven’t changed much since the 1970s, condos that make sense as a lock-and-leave vacation property, and newer custom builds for people looking for luxury. You might see a 1982 cabin on Circle Four that hasn’t been touched in decades and a luxurious Caldera Springs estate that would fit well into Bend’s most upscale neighborhoods. The range of properties is part of what keeps the market interesting in Sunriver. Real estate markets ebb and flow, and Sunriver is not immune to that. But places with a genuine sense of identity tend to hold their value, and Sunriver has that in a way that’s hard to replicate. It’s not just a good location. It’s a place where people build lasting family memories and a meaningful legacy, one bike ride at a time. Perhaps this article has you imagining life in Sunriver. If so, you’re in luck! This month’s featured listing is a beautiful Powder Village condominium that offers an affordable way to enjoy the Sunriver lifestyle. I’d be happy to answer your questions or arrange a private tour. Contact me, Kelly Clark, with REMAX Key Properties for details.

HOME PRICE ROUNDUP

Photos and listing info from Central Oregon Multiple Listing Service

<< LOW

327 NW Elm Avenue, Redmond 2 bed, 1 bath, 940 square feet; .11 acres Built in 1982 $300,000 Listed by John Ropp, REMAX Key Properties

MID >>

63319 O. B. Riley Road, Bend 4 bed, 2.5 bath, 2,202 square feet; .19 acre Built in 2007 $725,000 Listed by Erin Shinn, REMAX Key Properties

<< HIGH

733 NW Saginaw Avenue, Bend 3 bed, 2 bath, 2,118 square feet; 0.19 acre Built in 1979 $1,025,000 Listed by John Snippen, REMAX Key Properties

VOLUME 30 ISSUE 33 / AUGUST 13, 2026 / THE SOURCE

I

magine coming to Sunriver since you were seven years old, riding your bike down to The Village every summer morning to get donuts before anyone else in the family was awake. Twenty years later, you fulfill a lifelong dream to buy that place just two streets over from where your parents used to rent. That’s Sunriver in a nutshell. People don’t just visit, they get attached, and they come back time and time again. South of Bend, tucked into the ponderosa pines along the Deschutes River, Sunriver has that effect on people. Maybe it’s the Sunriver bike path with its 15 miles of fully paved path, allowing you to bike from your front door to the river without touching a car. Maybe it’s the power and beauty of Benham Falls or witnessing a meteor shower at the Sunriver Observatory. Whatever it is, the charm of Sunriver tends to work on people slowly, then all at once… often leading them to purchase their own little slice of paradise. I’ve lived and worked in Central Oregon for 25 years, and I’ve watched Sunriver pull in two very different kinds of people who end up wanting the same thing. There are the full-timers. These are the folks who want the quiet of the woods but don’t want to feel isolated. They like that they can wave to a neighbor on the bike path and still not hear a lawnmower for three days straight. And then there are the families who’ve been renting the same week in July for a decade and finally decide it’s time to just buy the place instead of booking it.

117

AUGUST 13, 2026 / BEND’S INDEPENDENT VOICE - NOW DAILY AT WWW.BENDSOURCE.COM

118

ASTROLOGY By Rob Brezsny

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Virgo mathe-

matician Katherine Johnson (1918–2020) was known as a “human computer” who specialized in carrying out large volumes of intricate calculations. She also had an uncanny ability to translate complex problems into elegant equations, which was why NASA called on her help to guide its early space missions. She said she simply asked the right questions until the numbers disclosed their hidden patterns. Be like her in the coming weeks, Virgo. Instead of forcing quick and simple answers, focus on dreaming up the smartest questions. Well-crafted inquiries will unlock sweet insights that brute effort can’t.

have decided that what once might have counted as excessive is now perfectly appropriate. If, however, you’re happily ensconced in a lively monogamous bond, don’t sabotage it with daydreams of juggling multiple lovers. Instead, conspire with your partner to expand the range of flavors inside the relationship. Try stepping into different personas together: Adopt new names, experiment with strange accents, and imagine you’re living in 1453 Italy, or 1506 Spain, or 1685 Japan, or 1721 France.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): The speed of

thought can zip along at over 200 miles per hour. That’s the rate at which signals travel through neurons. Electrical impulses in computers, on the other hand, may travel much faster, at half the speed of light. So your thoughts are very leisurely compared to machines. But they do what computers can't. They're creating meaning, not just moving data. Their slowness is where the richest reality unfolds. Remember that well in the coming weeks, Pisces. It’s extra important for your mental and physical health that you not imitate machines and algorithms. You need to ruminate and meditate and muse as gently and unhurriedly as you dare.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Before launch-

ARIES (March 21-April 19): At the post office, I mischievously plucked a crumpled piece of red paper out of the trash can. I don’t usually do such things, but I sensed some horoscope material was lurking there. It turned out to be a handwritten love note addressed to “My Lush and Luminous Aries Laugh-Lover” and signed, “Your Flawed but Fiery and Funny Provocateur.” The Provocateur had written, “Let’s be rowdy investigators of wonders and miracles. Let’s hack our way through the frontiers to discover the wildest beauty and truth ever.” I was shocked that anyone would have discarded such a tempting proposal—especially an Aries. Please avoid making comparable errors in the near future, my dear.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): The

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): The ancient Romans could be obsessive perfectionists in their approach to building stuff. They were extra thorough and scrupulous. That’s why some of the roads they constructed are still usable today, 2,000 years later. Workers dug deep foundations, then layered stones, gravel, and sand before placing the final surface. In the coming weeks, Taurus, I recommend that you, too, carry out meticulous groundwork as you upgrade your foundations and optimize your stability. Don’t you dare be lazy or hurried in doing this grunt work. Your dogged and ingenious attention to detail will make your future safety zone shatterproof and shockproof.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): In the art of mo-

saic-making, tiny fragments of stone or glass are fitted together into intricate patterns. Each piece is insignificant and meaningless on its own, but together they compose luminous images. Let's deploy the mosaic as a metaphor for your life, Libra. I invite you to consider the possibility that you are assembling minor details and small clues into a big, beautiful masterpiece. You may not even be fully aware of how exactly you're doing it or what it will ultimately look like and do. That's fine. Your higher self is in charge of accomplishing this minor miracle. ing spacecraft, engineers perform countless simulations of situations they hope will never happen. They repeatedly practice failures so that success becomes more likely. This is a different version of your current assignment, Scorpio. Your task is not to worry about disaster but to rehearse courage. So I encourage you to use your imagination to strengthen your resilience. Visualize yourself responding with creativity, grace, and humor whenever life springs surprises and unexpected blessings. Your confidence will thrive because you will have lots of inner practice in collaborating adeptly with uncertainty. horizon line is always the same distance away from you, about three miles at sea level. If you walk toward it, you will never reach it because it moves with you. Now I’d like to propose that some of your personal goals work like horizons. They are orientations, not actual destinations. You're supposed to move toward them indefinitely, never arriving. In the coming weeks, I invite you to distinguish between your horizon goals and your destination goals. Some aims are meant to be reached, while others basically guide your direction without ever needing to be attained.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): Here's my

normally $600-per-hour advice, provided at a very low cost to you: Don’t get back to where you once belonged. Instead, go toward where you must belong in the future. Maybe the old place feels cozier because it’s familiar, even if it no longer fits the person you are now. But I recommend that you heed the subtle pull of the life that’s calling you from ahead. Who exactly is the even more beautiful self you're on your way to becoming? Visualize in detail the situation where that sovereign majesty will thrive.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): If you’re sin-

gle, the coming weeks will be one of the most auspicious periods in ages for cultivating your own fan club of admirers. Your allure is turned up higher than usual, and the universe seems to

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): I appoint you to be the Chief Role Model in charge of showing everyone how to be a smart lover in all situations. Yes, all situations, not only those involving romance. In addition, I bestow on you the title of Chief Administrator of Amazing Grace, hoping this will inspire you to make elegant interventions in every situation where you have influence. Finally, Gemini, I exhort you to be devoted to seeing the beauty in everyone you encounter, even if you must work hard to find it. In asking you to carry out these humongous responsibilities, I'm interpreting the clues offered by the astrological omens. They have revealed to me that cultivating a generous spirit is crucial to you attracting what you want most. CANCER (June 21-July 22): I confess I have succumbed to a very modern misdemeanor: tossing the word “sacred” around more often than it deserves. To be fair, I haven’t stooped to the tacky depths of New Age hustlers hawking “sacred e‑mail marketing” or “sacred dog-walking.” But still, I would prefer to invoke the word more sparingly, so that on the rare occasions I do, you will feel a genuine shiver of awe. Like now. I predict you will soon be stirred by marvelous encounters and realizations that flood you with reverent feelings and turn your inner life deliciously upside down.

Homework: What blessing would you most like to receive? Visualize it vividly.

119 VOLUME 30 ISSUE 33 / AUGUST 13, 2026 / THE SOURCE

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): Given how extra vibrant and refreshed you have been feeling, I would understand if you had zero interest in confronting The Dilemma That Refuses to Fade. Why deliberately tangle with that stale, long‑term energy drain when your spirits are so high? Here’s why: At this moment, you possess a new and unprecedented advantage over The Dilemma That Refuses to Fade. You may not manage to completely vanquish it once and for all. But then again, you just might. At the very least, you can now sharply curtail its ability to siphon your energy and meddle with your life.

thelittlewoody.com

AUGUST 13, 2026 / BEND’S INDEPENDENT VOICE - NOW DAILY AT WWW.BENDSOURCE.COM

120

AUG 29

THE LAST WOODY!

CIN CIN! PROST! GĀNBĒI SALUD! SKÅL! SANTÉ! SLÁINTE! KANPAI! ŞEREFE! KIPPIS! NOROC! NA ZDRAVIE! BUD’MO! L’CHAIM! FI SAHTAK! GËZUAR! KIA ORA! MỘT HAI BA VÔ! E OLA! PROOST! SKÁL! ZA ZDOROV’YE! CHEERS! SELAMAT MINUM! EGÉSZSÉGEDRE! À VOTRE SANTÉ! CHOK DEE! DÔ! AFYA! BERSULANG! NUŞ OLSUN! ARAARA! BULA! EVVIVA! PRIEKĀ! ŽIVJELI! PRESENTS GAUMARJOS! SOK SAN! JAM TAN! MBURICHIKO! MASIMIREMBWA! CHIYARIMU! KASUUTTA! SHA’LA! TASHI! PHUZA! SAGBOL! CHOL MUOY! DZO! SALUT! NA ZDRAVJE! Į SVEIKATĄ! BA SALOMATI! BE SALAMATI! SIHAT! SAHA! MANUIA! HALA BIRA! WILUJENG! FELEKÊ! EKU ORI IRE! OLKASH! GUULEYSTA! IMPILONTLE! AHÉHEEʼ! AH SALAMETI! OOGY WAWA! CHON KAEW! CHEERS! ARAARA! AHÉHEEʼ! BIBA! AH SALAMETI! AHÉHEEʼ!

T S E F R E OKTOB

DON’T MISS THE WORLD RENOWNED

HOSTED BY BEND PET EXPRESS WITH THE HUMANE SOCIETY

LIVE MUSIC | DELICIOUS LOCAL FOOD | CRAFT BEER WIENER DOG RACES | QUIRKY COMPETITIONS | AND MORE LOCATED AT THE DESCHUTES HISTORICAL MUSEUM LAWN

SEPT. 19 2P-9P

LEARN MORE AT OKTOBERFESTBEND.COM

15 REGIONAL BREWERIES, CIDER, AND WINE

LIVE MUSIC AND ENTERTAINMENT

pRIZES FOR BEST DRESSED GNOMES

wINE & WHISKEY TENT

THE REC ROOM Pearl’s Puzzle

Crossword

Puzzle for the week of August 10, 2026

ACROSS 1 Classic sensational headline 12 Put money down 15 Departure announcement? 16 Chopping tool 17 Warning to avoid a touchy subject 18 Mic rockers 19 Take a breather 20 The lady in Henry James's "The Portrait of a Lady" 22 More capable 23 Mama of the sixties 26 Parks in Alabama 27 Ninja weapon with a pointed center prong 28 Letter-shaped fastener 30 Space discs, for short 31 Filter type used in vacuums 33 Ancient flute-like wind instruments 35 Storyteller of gods and goddesses, say 37 Zero 38 Do a somersault 42 Marshy wetlands 43 Dismissive texting acronym 45 Handy way to communicate: Abbr. 46 Maureen who calls Trump "Donald of Deliria" 47 One of Canada's First Nations 48 "Gloria" singer Branigan 50 Basketball Hall of Famer Wilkes 52 Turn against 53 Frankenfood label 54 Data structures with two child nodes each 58 "This guy, right here!" 59 "All the Queen's Men" star 60 Sporty autos 61 Rumor lead-in

Difficulty Level

R

★★

We’re Local!

Questions, comments or suggestions for our local puzzle guru? Email Pearl Stark at pearl@bendsource.com

121

T R H C U A Puzzle for the week of August 10, 2026 Difficulty Level: ●●○○ X T R © Pearl Stark mathpuzzlesgames.com/quodoku TM R H C U A C R Difficulty Level: ●●○○ UMX C XRT H U H C X A X C A X E RR E UU M AM A R H C R H C T T Fill in every row, column, and 3x3 box with each of the letters VOLUME 30 ISSUE 33 / AUGUST 13, 2026 / THE SOURCE

©2026 Brendan Emmett Quigley (www.brendanemmettquigley.com)

“Themeless Challenger” - By Brendan Emmett Quigley

MARX CHUTE exactly once. Fill in every row, column, and 3x3 box with each of the letters

Fill in every row, column, and 3x3 box with each of the letters exactly once.

M A R X

C H U T E

M highlighted A RTheXhighlighted C Hread UleftTread The letters toEright and topand to bottom will complete the quote: letters left to right top to bottom will complete the quote: “Trump has claimed that he could bring drug prices down anywhere from 100% to exactly once. “Trump has claimed that he could bring drug prices down anywhere from 100% to 1,500%. If 1,500%. If you reduce the price by 100%, that means it’s free. Why do I have to keep you reduce the price by 100%, that means it’s free. Why do I have to keep explaining this? I feel explaining this? I feel like an _____sted high school _______.” like an _____sted high school _______.” - Seth Meyers The highlighted letters read left to right and top to bottom will — Seth Meyers

“Trump hasofclaimed that he could bring drug prices down anyw Answer for the week August 03, 2026

ANSWER TO LAST WEEK'S PUZZLES

1,500%. If you reduce the price by 100%, that means it’s free.

DOWN 1 Rabbinic commentary on scripture 2 One-celled creatures 3 Like a shower mat 4 Flat-topped hill 5 Office tech expert, informally 6 Removable car roof panel option 7 "___ Yourself Healthy" (2026 Jamie Oliver book) 8 Quiet sound? 9 River in Wales and Scotland 10 Iris root used in perfumery 11 Half of all Eggos? 12 Fast-growing woody grasses 13 Overabundance 14 Powerwall company 21 Barking sound 23 Run jointly, as a committee 24 Served with a scoop 25 Unusual 29 "Colour Her Gone" Pop Artist Pauline 30 French indefinite article 32 34 36 37 39 40 41 42 44 46 47 49 51 52 55 56 57

"The Glass Menagerie" heroine Maker of the Fartyg ceiling light Mos. and mos. They're up a lot of the time Rest on one's ___ One with a lot in Lod Swings and a slide ___ the mouth Feathers on an arrow Spin session Record executive Davis Heart chambers Biblical victim Polar pioneer Richard Pester repeatedly Protestant church letters Got a move on

3 ( $ 5 / 0 & ( ' 0 $ 6 . G K A S U L Z I E explaining this? I feel like an $ 5high / 2 school 2 + , _______.” 2 $ 6 _____sted 6 $ < Z U E I K G A S L 7 2 / ( 7 0 , 6 6 / $ , 5 6 S L -I ESeth Z AMeyers U K G / , ) ( 2 ) 7 ( $ 6 ( 7 E Z G A I U K L S ) / 2 ( 6 7 2 0 % 6 A S L K G E I Z U 3 5 8 1 ( . 2 / $ $ & $ , Answer for the week of August 03, 2026 6 2 5 7 - $ 1 ' 8 ' ( 6 K I U Z L S E G A 7 6 $ 5 , 6 7 : ( ' ' , 1 * L E K G A Z S U I 0 , 0 , * 2 7 7 $ $ 6 6 IGG K S UAE S K LUA ZL Z 5I , 7E$ % 2 1 * 2 / 2 6 6 U A Z L S I G E K ) ( 5 $ / 6 1 2 % 6

Z U E I K G A S L S L I E Z A U K G E - ZPat Conroy G A I U K 6L: $S7 © APearlSStarkL K G E I Z U www.mathpuzzlesgames.com/quodoku K I U Z L S E G A L E K G A Z S U I I G S U E K L A Z U A Z L S I G E K

7 $ % / ( 7 % 2 ' , ( ' “Walking the streets of Charleston in the late afternoons of August was likethe walking throughof gauze or inhaling in the late 5 (walking 3 / < 7 : ( ( 7 of / August $ 6 6was like “Walking streets Charleston afternoons damaged silk.” through gauze or inhaling— damaged , 2 7 $ 7 ( $ 6 ( Pat Conroy silk.” - 2 7 6 3 6 6 7

$ 3 6 ( 6

“Walking the streets of Charleston in the late afternoons of Au through gauze or inhaling damaged silk.” - Pat Conroy © Pearl Stark www.mathpuzzlesgames.com/quodoku

AUGUST 13, 2026 / BEND’S INDEPENDENT VOICE - NOW DAILY AT WWW.BENDSOURCE.COM

122

BRING THE WHOLE FAMILY TO A EARLY PLAY OF

WINNIE THE POOH PRESENTED BY BLUEFISH DENTAL DRAKE PARK AUGUST 15, 2026 AT 11AM

123 VOLUME 30 ISSUE 33 / AUGUST 13, 2026 / THE SOURCE

AUGUST 13, 2026 / BEND’S INDEPENDENT VOICE - NOW DAILY AT WWW.BENDSOURCE.COM

124