the Source December 18, 2025 by The Source Weekly

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The Deschutes County Fair & Expo Center is projecting a deficit over the next few years. Reporter Julianna LaFollette looks at reasons why and what a new fairgrounds leader would be facing. Plus, what an independent review says about racial discrimination allegations involving the City of Bend. People coping with diseases like Parkinson’s are climbing to new heights for relief. And a new Thai restaurant on the east side of Bend offers flavors from Seoul to Bangkok while an Italian food truck has created a club for members to enjoy cheesy snacks at home. —Nic Moye

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OPINION

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E-Bikes are Coming to Bend Area Trails. It Seemed Only a Matter of Time.

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hen e-bikes began to enter the mountain bike scene, trail users were concerned. Getting out into the forest in this way was inherently an activity that required committment — and anyway, wouldn’t those fast new bikes ruin the trails, and add more congestion in our already crowded network? Those were just some of the assumptions that most cyclists — including ourselves — made about the prospect of juiced-up bikes hopping onto the singletrack. But time and the democratic process may have softened us, and many others, to the realities. In recent years, e-bikes have flooded the streets as viable commuter vehicles for parents and purists alike. Now, they’re also allowed on a number of Bend area trails. This month, the U.S. Forest Service announced that it had concluded its years-long process of deciding whether to allow e-bikes to ride singletrack trails in the Deschutes National Forest. When the USFS announced this process, it already seemed something of an inevitability: The e-bike community had become big enough that it began to have lobbying power and began to enlist the support of cycling groups that would advocate and eventually benefit from the addition of a new group of cyclists. People were demanding access to the developed trails rather than being relegated to the countless miles of doubletrack forest roads where e-bikes previously had to tread. It may not have been our first choice, but the question of whether to allow e-bikes on Deschutes singletrack was answered by many, and many of them said they wanted it. That’s the democratic process unfolding. Meanwhile, proponents of cycling and trails, including the Central Oregon Trail Alliance, eventually came out in support, within limits. USFS’ ultimate decision was to limit

e-bikes to about half of the trail miles in Central Oregon, and to limit the type of bike to only class 1 e-bikes. That means no bikes with throttles that can reach speeds beyond what a human could achieve on their own. These are reasonable limits to put in place and are in line with what is allowed in other trail networks that already allow e-bikes. Both will, of course, come with a need for enforcement and new signage. Our hope is that adding e-bikes to the roster of singletrack riders will drum up more support for the organizations building and maintaining many of Central Oregon’s trails. E-bike users — who tend to be a bit older and more affluent than other cyclists, according to the USFS — represent a new class of potential volunteers and donors. These riders, it is hoped, should add greatly to fundraising efforts. With the greatly increased number of riders, the trails are going to need the support. If we are not enthusiastically embracing having our trails further crowded, perhaps we’re mollified by the fact that an older and more affluent cycling enthusiast might want to donate to the organizations supporting trails. Perhaps those who are so newly welcomed onto the singletrack trails of the region will see it as such too: In this moment, when hundreds of miles of trail have suddenly been opened up to e-bikes, it’s a good time to give back and support those who made it possible. The Forest Service is admittedly broke, and thanks to the current administration, getting broker — so it falls to local nonprofits to maintain the trails and educate users on what is and is not allowed. In order to make this rollout of new rules go as smoothly as possible, those able to support the work of volunteers and local nonprofits should do so.

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Letters

DESCHUTES COUNTY COMMISSION’S NOT SO FUNNY COMEDY OF ERRORS

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ENDORSEMENTS SHOULD BE EARNED

often left out and ignored. The BIPOC community ARE citizens of Central Oregon and they contribute to the success of Deschutes County in various ways. Too often they aren’t recognized or acknowledged during elections which is the case now. The POTUS demonized DEI, and some local leaders used this demonization as an opportunity to dismantle anything affiliated with DEI which in turn causes an impact on BIPOC opportunities as well. If a candidate cannot clearly and confidently stand up for the BIPOC community in Deschutes County, they are not fit for leadership in my opinion because they are already failing the basic test of their oath. Public office requires a commitment to serve ALL residents, not just the comfortable majority. Leaders who hesitate to defend marginalized communities abandon their moral responsibility and their sworn duty to protect the rights, safety, dignity of every constituent. A candidate who finds it difficult to uphold equity cannot uphold their oath, and a leader who refuses to stand with those most often ignored cannot be trusted to serve the entire community. By hearing BIPOC voices in local leadership and policy making, it highlights the strength and creativity these communities bring to Central Oregon. Do not dismiss them as “hidden figures” because their votes will count as well. —Clifford B. Evelyn Sr.

BEND CONSIDERS ADDING A FEE TO DISCOURAGE NATURAL GAS IN NEW HOMES

Let’s see, just another factor for the cost of housing and exploding rental fees. Examples: Kotek and her liberal surrogates declare the entire state of Oregon is in a Wildfire Wilderness zone. Insurance companies aren’t supposed to use this declaration for insurance rate increases but, in reality, they do — home insurance costs have skyrocketed. Effect: homeowners will pay more for insurance and pass that along in rent increases to tenants. Bend’s city council pursues their “no fossil fuel folly” costing more in building codes to rid of natural gas. Result, more costs to builders, tenants, city residents and rents will increase. When will the city charge bicyclists for the changes made to city streets to accommodate bicyclists? It’s cost the city tons of money for designing bike lanes with reflectors, rubber isolation posts, special snow removal gear for the bicycle lane and tons of engineering costs to accommodate bicycles. Where some of Bend’s city streets allowed parking, these arterials now only allow auto and bicycle access, no on street parking. NE Purcell reflects this change. Now, side streets are further cluttered with parked cars. When will bicyclists pay? —Neil Ripsch

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Oh, the irony! Last Wednesday [Dec. 3], I watched with incredulity as Patti Adair and Tony Debone called for public comment in a room full of interested citizens they themselves had silenced. Per The Source, “Adair requested that a public hearing be held [emphasis added] before any decision-making by the Board, which DeBone seconded.” This move shocked those of us present. Debone had earlier claimed there was no fair way to hear from the people who were present and who were befuddled by his failure to see the obvious. “Email me,” he said, glibly, as if we in the room were merely holograms. The issue at hand? The District Mapping Advisory Committee’s Map C. Democracy depends on fair processes. By relying on voter rolls instead of updated census data, Map C disenfranchises voters and disadvantages non-voting residents. DMAC committee member and former Commissioner Phil Henderson claimed not to understand this point when Commissioner Phil Chang brought it up. (Hard to believe since Mr. Henderson is quite familiar with electoral politics.) The result is what many critics see as the desperate power grab of ideologues out of touch with the majority of folks here. Deschutes County deserves better. As a longtime civics educator and County resident, I call on our County Commission to course correct. Before a map is put before the voters, let the voters decide if a map is even necessary. Then, if our County needs districts — a BIG if — let them be drawn fairly, impartially, and with accurate data. —Amy Sabbadini

I believe that making the choice to endorse a candidate is not always the best decision and that withholding endorsements becomes a more responsible strategy. I say this because it gives time to evaluate candidates thoroughly which is rarely done in elections. Doing so gives one an opportunity to determine for themselves if a candidate reflects their values, truly understands the communities they will be serving, demonstrates competence and integrity required for the position, and has a background that’s conducive to the job requirements. An endorsement sends a signal to the community that a particular candidate or candidates reflects the values of the endorser and that of the communities they will be serving. Endorsements also suggest that a candidate fully understands the priorities and is prepared to lead with competence and accountability. In any and all elections the goal should be to determine who will advance the well-being of all citizens in Deschutes County and uphold the principles we claim we stand for. Being selective and thoughtful in this process will ensure that your voice remains strong and trustworthy in this civic process. At this time more than ever we need a county commission that demonstrates honesty, integrity and character. We need a county commission that stands boldly and unapologetically on issues that actually serve the communities such as educational equity and affordable housing. My constituents trust my judgement, and I will not compromise that trust for convenience, pressure, or political theater. I believe and support BIPOC advocacy because those in this category are

NEWS No Tax Oregon Submits Signatures

WWW.BENDSOURCE.COM / DECEMBER 18, 2025 / BEND’S INDEPENDENT VOICE

The Chief Petitioners working to block new gas and vehicle taxes delivered nearly 200,000 signatures to the Oregon Secretary of State’s office in Salem on Friday, Dec. 12 by horse and buggy. That’s more than double the required 78,000 signatures needed to put the issue on the November ballot. In November, Gov. Tina Kotek signed House Bill 3991 raising the state gas tax by 6 cents as well as registration and title fees for most passenger vehicles to fill a funding gap for the Oregon Department of Transportation. It also raises a temporary payroll tax to fund public transit. ODOT says money raised would support essential work such as clearing snow and debris from roads. Opponents with “No Tax Oregon,” backed by Republican state lawmakers, say they want ODOT to reprioritize spending and reallocate existing money toward road maintenance. The Secretary of State needs to verify 78,116 of the submitted signatures to certify the petition for the ballot.

Search Suspended for Missing Bend Man The Hood River County Sheriff’s Office suspended its search for a Bend man who went missing on Dec, 13 while climbing Mount Hood. Matthew Aldridge, 26, was attempting to summit the mountain via the Newton Clark Headwall. Two companions decided to turn back due to poor conditions, while Aldridge continued. Later, when they failed to hear from Aldridge, they reported him overdue. The Sheriff’s office says data from Aldridge’s cell phone indicated a fall, but searchers were unable to find him. They suspended the search Sunday afternoon due to weather conditions. —Nic Moye

$5 —Roundtrip price of taking the new Meissner Shuttle.

“In some ways, it’s like a treadmill. We’re landing bigger events, generating more revenue from those, but our expenses keep going up.” —Deschutes County Commissioner Phil Chang re: the Deschutes County Fair & Expo Center.

As CDC Changes Vaccine Guidance, Deschutes County Health Providers Stay the Course Leading local medical organizations aren’t budging on vaccine schedules By Kayvon Bumpus

n Dec. 5, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention announced a significant shift in vaccine policy. The federal health agency will no longer recommend that newborn babies receive Hepatitis B vaccinations. For over three decades, the CDC universally recommended this shot. This change in policy came on advice from its Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices, which “develops recommendations on the use of vaccines in the civilian population of the United States,” per the CDC website. “CDC sets the U.S. adult and childhood immunization schedules based on recommendations from ACIP.” Per the Common Health Coalition, a public health nonprofit, ACIP also voted to recommend that “parents should consult with clinicians to consider an antibody blood test before dose 2 and/ or dose 3 of the hepatitis B vaccine series to help determine whether additional doses are needed… Notably, scientists do not know what antibody level guarantees long-term protection for babies, especially after just one dose, so this test cannot reliably tell families whether their child is protected.” The CDC falls under the jurisdiction of the Department of Health and Human Services, currently led by Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and Deputy Secretary James O’Neill, who previously worked for HHS during the George W. Bush administration. Kennedy Jr. has more claims to fame than just his family history. He campaigned as a Democrat in the last presidential election before leaving the party to launch a third-party bid, eventually withdrawing and endorsing Donald Trump — a major political shift for the former environmental lawyer and activist. Trump described Kennedy Jr. as a “Radical Left Liberal” just three months before receiving the endorsement. But the eco-lawyer turned health secretary has remained consistent on one issue: his claims of links between vaccinations and autism, directly alleging that vaccines cause autism. In June, he told former Fox News anchor Tucker Carlson that the hepatitis B vaccine is a “likely culprit,” also denying that hepatitis B is “casually contagious.” Both claims have been broadly pushed back against by health experts. CDC guidelines are what set the tone nationally, but it falls on local medical providers to inform their communities in more depth about recommended health choices. In October, several Central Oregon providers joined forces to release a PSA, “Here to Listen 2,” that has been running as a commercial on local TV channels. “We want you to know. Vaccines are still safe and effective,” said Dr. Jessica Morgan of Praxis Health. “They save millions of lives each year,” said Dr. Richard Fawcett of Deschutes County Health Services. Dr. Logan Clausen of Central Oregon Pediatric Associates and St. Charles Family Medicine’s Dr. Mathew Snodgrass concluded that vaccines “are vital for protecting the most vulnerable among us.”

V. Stock (Flickr)

Since 1991, the hepatitis B vaccine has been saving American lives, according to local doctors.

The Source reached out to involved health providers for further comment. St. Charles Health System stated that they “continue to follow West Coast Health Alliance, which recommends Hep B shots.” The WHCA is a “partnership between California, Hawaii, Oregon, and Washington to ensure that public health recommendations are guided by safety, efficacy, transparency, access, and trust,” per its website. In a press release, WHCA stated, “Delaying the birth dose of hepatitis B vaccine and using blood tests to guide vaccination will lead to more children and adults developing preventable liver disease and liver cancer with no evidence of a safety benefit. A review by the Vaccine Integrity Project found that the vaccine is safe regardless of when it is given… Delaying the first dose increases the risk of infection and jeopardizes completion of the full vaccine series, which is required for long-lasting protection. Many with chronic hepatitis B do not know they are infected… The birth dose acts as a critical safety net to protect newborns from infection.” Chief Health Officer of Mosaic Community Health Bernadette Thomas told the Source that Mosaic’s Central Oregon health centers will also follow the WHCA guidelines over federal ones. “This scientific, evidence-based strategy has reduced pediatric hepatitis B infections in the United States by 99%,” she said. “Deschutes County Health Services continues to recommend the hepatitis B birth dose, wherein the first dose of the series is given within 24 hours of birth per Oregon Health Authority guidelines,” said Sarah Van Meter, the county’s immunization program coordinator. “This recommendation is in alignment with trusted national medical organizations, including the American Academy of Pediatrics, the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecologists, and the Infectious Diseases Society of America.” Praxis Health did not provide a comment by time of publication. “Our voices are more powerful together. We want our community to see that health care providers in Central Oregon stand together,” said Dr. Carey Allen, St. Charles’ clinical division director of primary care medicine.

NEWS

‘Implausible,’ ‘Inconsistent’ and Unsubstantiated by Evidence

A third-party investigation casts doubt on a former DEI director’s accusations of racism at City Hall. Andrés Portela says it’s biased. By Peter Madsen

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extreme frustration … seeing the letter as something that ultimately could hurt him. He made his decision to attempt to pressure me into writing that. So that is my belief and my truth.” Jacob Larsen, the City’s community relations manager, wrote in an email that the City took the allegations in Portela’s initial resignation letter seriously. “When the letter was received, discussions began immediately on conducting an investigation,” Larsen said. “And that investigation was followed through and has been completed. The investigator found that the City took the issue seriously, addressed them appropriately and that the evidence did not substantiate Portela’s allegations.” Andrés Portela III, the City of Bend’s former equity and inclusion director.

The City has not received the final invoice for the report, yet the maximum contract amount for the investigator is $50,000, Larsen added. The City also hired a different third-party group, Kearns & West, to shape the future of its equity work. This work began in November and will finish in January, according to public records received by the Source. The work will cost no more than $25,730, according to the personal service agreement. Ahrendt, the investigator, noted in the report that including racial allegations against colleagues in a resignation letter “suggests that Portela was insensitive to the potential impact of his letter on other employees, as well as the City, and (surprisingly, given his position) failed to recognize that some of his allegations were in essence personal complaints meriting an investigation rather than mere subjects for discussion.” Portela received a copy of the report last week. He said he realizes his credibility has been questioned for inconsistent ordering of events, but says that’s because he hasn’t had access to his work email and calendar since Sept. 19, when he signed the settlement agreement. “I don’t have access to records, I’m on the outside,” Portela said. “So, to say that my story falls apart from timelines, and my not understanding when things played out....the City owns those records. It seems like there was a defensiveness that didn’t need to be there if there was a timeline.” The investigator also found additional characterizations of events that drew Portela’s credibility into question. For instance, Portela told the Source that he told his colleagues he was traveling to a happy hour for equity directors in Portland on Sept. 9. Yet the next day, a City employee mentioned that she had seen Portela on the same flight from San Francisco to Redmond. In the report, a City employee maintained that when she later confronted him about it, Portela said the Portland meeting went so poorly he flew to San Francisco that morning to get a haircut. Portela told the Source he didn’t remember telling anyone he’d flown to San Francisco to get a haircut; yet as the report bears out, Portela told the Source he’d traveled to visit his family in Tucson, where they had previously lived and to where he had recently moved his family. The City’s information security manager scrubbed location data from Portela’s Microsoft account,

showing that he was in Arizona instead of Portland on Sept. 9 and at the San Francisco Airport on the morning of Sept. 10. According to an Aug. 5 letter written on City letterhead, which Portela furnished to the Source, Portela had been approved to work 50% remotely and that it was understood that he would be splitting his time between Bend and Tucson, where he would be buying a house. The letter was written by Stephanie Betteridge, the assistant city manager and Portela’s immediate supervisor, in service of a home mortgage application Portela was putting together. Asked about the trips, Portela said he would have been happy to discuss the trip with his immediate supervisors, yet that didn’t happen because shortly after returning to Bend Portela gave a verbal resignation, on Sept. 11. “As far as this singular event being a way to completely discredit the reasons why I left,” Portela said, “means no systems-level changes or supports will be in place for future employees.” On Sept. 19, several days after sending a second resignation letter, free of allegations, the City offered Portela a settlement to receive half of his yearly salary of $135,000 and payments for health insurance, the city confirmed. That agreement also precluded Portela from suing the City. He subsequently bought a home in Tucson. Portela says the report’s baked-in bias is found in the way his and others’ accounts are characterized by the investigator’s language. Portela said, “It was like they were trying to establish a reasonability standard that wasn’t necessarily applied to the City, but was applied to me. …When you use words like ‘claimed,’ ‘asserted,’ ‘mischaracterized’ when I’m speaking, and then when you use language like ‘explained,’ ‘clarified,’ ‘credibly stated,’ ‘reasonably believed’ with City leadership, you can tell the intent of the report within the text itself.” The City Attorney’s Office said in a statement that “the investigation found that the City took the issues seriously and did not treat [Portela] differently based on race. The City is committed to making our organization a safe and fair place for everyone and recognizes that this experience has presented learning opportunities.” At a City Council meeting on Dec. 3, officials announced that Eric King had received a 4.5-out-of-5 performance review and a 5% pay bump. That brings his annual salary from $245,157 to around $257,000, the City confirmed. Reading from a prepared statement at the meeting, Mayor Melanie Kebler said: “The City Council feels fortunate to have the leadership, experience and perspective of Eric as our city manager. Eric continues to lead the City forward during challenging times, with a focus on opportunities to both better the organization as well as help our community succeed. By providing steady leadership and creating a strong City team, Eric helps the Council meet the needs of our community now and in the future. We are grateful for Eric’s service to the people of Bend.” —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.

VOLUME 29 ISSUE 51 / DECEMBER 18, 2025 / THE SOURCE WEEKLY

fter the dramatic departure last September of Andrés Portela III, the City of Bend’s equity and inclusion director, City officials vowed to hire a third-party consultant to investigate the allegations Portela listed in his Sept. 12 resignation letter. The allegations include a racially hostile environment inside City Hall, mismanagement of racial incidents by City Manager Eric King and a DEI department stripped of staff and organization. The results of that report, prepared by Amy Ahrendt, owner of Attorney-Conducted Workplace Investigations, suggest that the allegations of former ve director of the City’s Accessibility and ati re lC Equity Department were “internally inconsistent” and portions of them were “implausible” and unsubstantiated by evidence. The Source received the Dec. 2 report through a public records request with the City. Between Nov. 18 and Dec. 1, Ahrendt conducted in-person interviews with numerous City employees, including those Portela named in his resignation letter. At the crux of the investigation is a Sept. 16 conversation between Portela and King regarding his Sept. 12 resignation letter, which OPB had sought that day through a FOIA request. In interviews, the two agreed that Portela asked if he could give King a hug, to which he obliged. They also agreed that they did not talk about severance pay and that they planned to meet later to talk about Portela’s concerns, according to the report. Their accounts of the meeting otherwise differ. Portela claimed that King cried through much of the conversation, which King denied, although he admitted to feeling emotional because Portela’s allegations “hit him to the core.” According to Portela, King said that the resignation letter would ruin him and that “readers would only see the worst” in King. Portela contends that he gave King two options: the City could share his Sept. 12 resignation letter with OPB, saying “the City was taking steps to improve, or the City could refuse to give his letter to OPB and treat his concerns as a personnel matter.” Portela claimed that King asked him to write a second resignation letter, one that didn’t include his accusations against several City employees. In King’s interview, he said he asked Portela to write another resignation letter because the first one listed information about employees and wasn’t filed with human resources. Their accounts continued to diverge: Portela said King stood over him as an intimidation tactic while he wrote and sent the new resignation letter. Yet the investigator found evidence that King was instead in a meeting when he received the email, which he immediately forwarded to Ian Leitheiser, the city attorney, who was also in attendance. In a phone conversation with the Source on Dec. 15, Portela, who began his role as the City’s equity and inclusion director in July 2023, said he stands by his account of King pressuring him to revise and resend his resignation letter. “There was a definite shift from someone who was showing a very human side to me, telling me how [the accusations in the letter] could ruin his career,” Portela said. “Then [King shifted to] someone who showed

WWW.BENDSOURCE.COM / DECEMBER 18, 2025 / BEND’S INDEPENDENT VOICE

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NEWS

Incoming Snowstorms Could Blow Away Warm Weather Worries Several inches of snow are expected to hit the Cascades, along with high winds By Kayvon Bumpus Mt. Bachelor Live Webcam

Pray for snow goes deeper than just a seasonal Bend beer. Nearly everyone is praying for overdue inches of the white powder to cover up all this dark terrain.

Wind Warning for Central Oregon. “Damaging winds” that could reach up to 60 miles per hour “will blow down trees and power lines,” per the NWS. “Widespread power outages are expected. Travel will be difficult, especially for high profile vehicles. Remain in the lower levels of your home during the windstorm and avoid windows. Watch for falling debris and tree limbs. Use caution if you must drive.” The NWS office also said in a Special Weather Statement, “Those living or having travel plans through the Cascades should be prepared for impactful weather next week.” With snow on the horizon, folks in the industry can stop holding their breath. It should be cold enough shortly to see it in the air. Presley Quon, communications manager for Mt. Bachelor, told the Source that this year isn’t the first time snowfall’s been tardy. “We opened on December

13 in 2021 and December 14 in 2008. The latest opening we have on record was January 2 in 1976 — that was a drought year,” she said. But in 2008, things quickly turned for the better. “We proceeded to get 538 [annual inches] of snow (well above our 410 average), so a slow start doesn’t necessarily mean a low snow year.” Still, a delay to the season means a state of limbo for some staff. Quon said that seasonal employees saw their start dates pushed back. “This can be difficult on people relying on hours, but our HR team does a great job of connecting those employees with community resources,” Quon said. “While, of course, we’d like to be spinning lifts by this time of year, we are grateful that our season is one of the longest in the country, and look forward to skiing and riding through Memorial Day in May. We anticipate there will be pent-up demand once we do open.”

9 VOLUME 29 ISSUE 51 / DECEMBER 18, 2025 / THE SOURCE WEEKLY

his December, an unseasonable warmth has had Bend residents and tourists alike sweating and shedding layers. Data from the Bend Municipal Airport weather station indicates recorded temperatures this month have exceeded high monthly averages by over 10 degrees Fahrenheit, and low monthly averages by over 25 degrees. Weather has been sunny and in the mid 50s for much of this month so far. Of course, heat in December also impacts the mountains. Without suitable snow on the slopes, some ski bums, not to mention resort employees, started wondering about their plans. Businesses that cater to snow recreation also faced some uncertainty, but two popular Bend shops maintained optimism. “We still live in a winter area, so it’s going to be cold and the snow’s going to come sooner and later. People are still gearing up for that,” Shanda McGee, owner of Powder House Ski & Snowboard, told the Source last week. “I don’t think I’ve ever seen it this dry. It’s been 60 degrees out in mid-December in Bend. This is not normal,” said Dan McGarigle, owner of Pine Mountain Sports. But in an interview with the Source, he shared his personal outlook. “My philosophy is always that it’s not gonna snow, period. That way, it’s a nice surprise when it does.” The National Weather Service forecast office in Pendleton is promising a nice surprise for McGarigle, so get ready to bundle up. “By Tuesday night… mountain rain will turn over to snow. The rain and snow could be heavy at times,” the NWS predicts for the Cascades west of Bend, forecasting “widespread blowing snow after 1 am,” with potentially 2 to 4 inches sticking. On Wednesday, significantly lower temperatures are projected than Central Oregon has seen this month, along with more mountain snowfall. Mt. Bachelor is expected to receive snow all through next week, with “accumulation of 11 to 17 inches” possible Friday. Don’t lace your boots and start your engine just yet, as the Pendleton forecast office also issued a High

WWW.BENDSOURCE.COM / DECEMBER 18, 2025 / BEND’S INDEPENDENT VOICE 10

The nonprofit’s mission is to usher in and feed those in need By Kayvon Bumpus

hepherd’s House Ministries has been operating in Deschutes County for 18 years. The nonprofit was founded and is still based in Bend, but has operated a shelter in Redmond since November 2023. As reported by the Source, the Shepherd’s House Redmond Center became a 24/7 shelter in February 2024, “providing meals, showers, mobile outreach, day services, job readiness programs and wrap-around services.” It also doubles as an emergency shelter in the case of extreme weather or natural disasters. A month and two years after opening its doors, the shelter’s occupancy tallies “normally about 50 people staying overnight,” according to Tom Kuhn, the Redmond Center’s assistant director. “In the case of emergency weather conditions, we can get up to about 80 people per night.” Kuhn described the Redmond Center as a welcoming environment with the intention to get people off the streets above all else, especially since winter storms are forecast to arrive soon. “Three meals a day, open to everybody, open from 7 am to 7 pm,” he summarized. “You can come in, hang out, eat meals, whatever.” As with all shelters, Redmond Center is limited in physical space and resources, and there’s often not enough room for everyone who needs it. “It’s a large emotional deal to know if you have a bunk or not,” Kuhn told the Source. However, guests who have already secured a bed can ensure they don’t lose their spot “as long as they check in by 8pm the following night,” he said. “And after 7 pm, there’s a little area open where people can stay till 10 if they don’t have a bunk.” The Shepherd’s House Redmond Center exemplifies the concept of low-barrier housing — like the

Julianna LaFollette

Lighthouse Navigation Center in Bend, this is a shelter that prioritizes keeping unhoused people inside without holding them to strict standards. “We’re like a first step out of the dirt type thing,” Kuhn said. “Our goal there is to try and move our people to a higher level of care, where there are certain barriers.” That could mean a shelter that requires guests to pass drug tests or maintain steady employment. Kuhn called this “medium-barrier,” but said that “even people that qualify” often wind up in low barrier settings because “there’s just not enough housing… It’s very limited, with only a few [medium-barrier] options available.” He mentioned Bethlehem Inn as an example; that shelter’s website refers to itself as “high barrier.” According to Kuhn, the Redmond Center is “50-100 beds” short in terms of adequately providing low barrier housing, but he stated with pride that the Center is “on track for 80,000 meals served this year.” To unhoused members of Redmond’s community, Kuhn said, “We can offer you food and security; we also give out clothing. But before anything else, you should find a case manager to help.” The Shepherd’s House Redmond Center is located at 1350 S. Hwy 97, across the highway from Pollack Memorial Field.

REDMOND PICKS

12/20 – 12/21 SATURDAY

12/20

CENTRAL OREGON FLUTE ENSEMBLE A SLICE OF SYMPHONY AT THE LIBRARY

“Music in Public Places” is a free community concert series presented by the Central Oregon Symphony Association, this time featuring the Central Oregon Flute Ensemble (COFE), Oregon’s largest flute ensemble outside the Portland area. Led by Sue Steiger, Mikaela Storm and Ryan Zwahlen, COFE’s 20+ musicians perform an engaging mix of classical, popular and contemporary music, bringing live orchestral sound to the community in an accessible, welcoming setting. Sat., Dec. 20, 3-4pm at Redmond Library. 827 SW Deschutes Ave., Redmond. Free.

SATURDAY

12/20

BABES IN TOYLAND WITH BEND BURLESQUE COMPANY

Bend Burlesque Company presents this festive holiday burlesque show, where Mother Goose whimsy collides with Santa’s Workshop magic. Think playful fairytales, vintage va-va-voom and plenty of sparkles. Don your holiday best for this seasonal spectacular. Sat., Dec. 20, 8pm at High Desert Music Hall. 818 SW Forest Ave., Redmond. $30-$80.

FRIDAY-SUNDAY

12/19-12/21

JURASSIC QUEST DINOSAUR EXPO

Jurassic Quest is a touring event offering fossil digs, life-size dinosaur models and a variety of other themed activities. Also advertised is an area dedicated to LEGO-inspired brick construction. Fri., Dec. 19-Sun., Dec. 21, times vary. OSU Deschutes County Extension Service. 3800 SW Airport Way, Redmond. $25-$68.

Purchase discount gift certificates online at

perks.bendsource.com

VOLUME 29 ISSUE 51 / DECEMBER 18, 2025 / THE SOURCE WEEKLY

REDMOND NEWS

Shepherd’s House Redmond Center Provides a 'First Step Out of the Dirt'

FEATURE

Deschutes County Fair & Rodeo 2023

WWW.BENDSOURCE.COM / DECEMBER 18, 2025 / BEND’S INDEPENDENT VOICE

Behind its record attendance and booming events, the Deschutes County Fair and Expo Center faces growing costs, needed repairs and a search for new leadership By Julianna LaFollette

he Deschutes County Fair and Expo Center has been coined the “premier facility of its kind” in the Northwest, boosting the region’s tourism economy and drawing impressive crowds with its yearround events. With a focus on providing a variety of opportunities for residents and visitors, the campus holds more than 400 events annually on its 320-acre site on the southeast edge of Redmond. Deschutes County has also been working on the acquisition of an additional 120 acres. In late August, Fair and Expo Director Geoff Hinds announced that after six years at the helm, he would step down in September to take a new job in leadership at Cheyenne Frontier Days in Wyoming. In a resignation letter obtained by the Source, Hinds noted the continued “year-over-year growth” during his time there and following its return after the pandemic, welcoming new events that have “put Deschutes County Fair and Expo firmly on the map as the premier event facility in the Northwest.” “As an organization, we have so much to be proud of — from building strong community partnerships to welcoming nearly one million visitors each year, generating significant economic impact for Central Oregon, over $100 million each year, and most importantly, creating memories and opportunities that matter deeply to this community,” he wrote. Before his departure, Hinds said the fairgrounds was focused on “getting creative” and investing back into the facility to keep up with rising operational costs. According to County Commissioner Phil Chang, the Fair and Expo Center was already in a bad spot, financially, before Hinds stepped into his role. From the start, there was a focus on finding new ways to generate more income for the entity. Much of the Fair and Expo Center’s success in recent years, Hinds told the Source, was generated by a

“we are proud of the rich history and excited about the future. the deschutes county fair and expo center is the premier facility of its kind in the northwest.” - erik kropp, interim fair and expo director need to think outside the box and seek out new opportunities for generating revenue. “At times you go, ‘it’s a lot,’ and it’s because we’re constantly trying to do something else to make sure that we’re generating revenue that all goes right back into the facility…it’s a really expensive facility to operate. I think the ultimate benefit is that’s just more stuff for the community to do,” Hinds told the Source in June. While Fair and Expo revenue has seen an uptick in recent years, it’s not enough to cover needed costs associated with the 25-year-old facility, Hinds said before his departure. While its offerings and crowds continue to grow year after year, sustaining that momentum while increasing revenue is complex, as the aging campus and its finances face growing pressures. In the face of steep cost increases, needed repairs and shifting leadership, fair leaders are working toward new solutions. Meanwhile, rising operational costs threaten to outpace revenue at the Deschutes County Fair and Expo Center.

Forecasting deficits While the Fair and Expo Center has seen success in bringing in larger crowds and more revenue, Fair and Expo leaders have indicated financial concerns moving forward, as a result of rising costs. In May, Hinds said the facility could be heading toward a deficit if nothing changes, according to budget projections from a Deschutes County Budget Committee Meeting. According to a five-year forecast of Fair and Expo funds, revenue is projected to grow every year. But with expenditures also growing alongside revenue, the forecasts show the potential for “working capital” to be in a deficit between Fiscal Year 2026 through 2029. According to Hinds, these projections were based on what the Fair and Expo finances could look like if they continue on the same path they are on today, with no changes. Working capital in Fiscal Year 2025 was listed at $403,000, but projected to see a decline in FY 2026, at $212,680. According to this five-year forecast, revenue in 2027 is estimated at $4,468,748, with expenditures listed as $4,517,749, leaving the Fair and Expo with a deficit of $49,000. The projected deficit in FY 2028 is expected to grow, with a deficit of $397,333. “These [charts] are showing that it could be negative in the next few years moving forward. Hopefully this is worst-case scenario, and we’re able to offset this,” Hinds said at the meeting. According to Deschutes County Administrator Erik Kropp, who is interim Fair and Expo director while a search for Hinds’ replacement continues, price increases for facility use and rentals are evaluated each year as part of the County’s fee schedule process that goes before the Board of County Commissioners. Hinds said the Fair and Expo Center will have to find new opportunities for revenue generation, and

FEATURE Deschutes County

Deschutes County Fair & Rodeo 2023

Rising costs and needed repairs Cost increases are significant across operational spending, labor and overall event and facility maintenance, and are expected to continue rising, according to budget reports from May. While the majority of expenses go toward staffing, as well as materials and services, funds are mostly generated through the leasing of the space, food and beverage sales, equipment rentals and the production of events. Funding is also received from Transient Room Tax. According to Fair and Expo leaders, as the facility ages, needed repairs and replacement of equipment across the 320-acre campus is increasing in both size and scope. The Fair and Expo Center’s current Reserve Fund, meant to address current and future repairs, remains significantly underfunded, according to Hinds. Because of growing costs associated with operating the Fair and Expo Center, he said, it hasn’t been possible for the fair to “infuse cash” into the fund over the last two years. According to Kropp, fully funding capital replacement needs at the county fairgrounds is an issue throughout the state of Oregon and elsewhere. Last fiscal year, the Fair and Expo Capital Reserve Fund for maintenance and repairs ended with $3.7 million, most of which comes from 1% of the County’s Transient Lodging Tax — which brought in $459,544 from 2024 through 2025. While Hinds said they may have access to grants to help pay for certain improvements, there is a laundry list of needed repairs in the future. These include repairing or replacing roofs and asphalt, plumbing upgrades, fences, exterior landscape, as well as planned facility land acquisition and future buildout. Many of these repair and maintenance items are necessary to keep the facility fully operational. County Commissioner Chang confirms what Kropp said — that many fairgrounds around the state are financially strapped, with aging or failing facilities. “Deschutes County is doing a lot better than most, but we still are not on great footing in terms of deferred

maintenance,” he told the Source. Despite his current concerns, Chang acknowledged that these challenges are not new. “While what we have in our maintenance reserve is pretty meager, we had less before. I would say that we were in a worse financial position before Geoff Hinds than we are now, but deferred maintenance comes to roost,” Chang said. Inflation in the last few years, he added, has made staffing a lot more financially challenging. According to Chang, Hinds “tightened up” the fiscal management, adding larger events such as Fairwell Fest and other new programming. But larger events lead to more wear and tear on the facility, making maintenance and repairs even more urgent. Another challenge, Chang said, is that the venue is essentially, “busting at the seams.” While there are plans to move forward with the 140-acre land acquisition, he worries about the needed costs for this large plan. “So we don’t just need to figure out how to cover deferred maintenance, we need to finance construction of new facilities,” Chang told the Source. He added that there are potential partnership opportunities for this. “In some ways, it’s like a treadmill. We’re landing bigger events, generating more revenue from those, but our expenses keep going up and we have this deferred maintenance. So, we may not be in that much better of a financial position than we were five years ago, even though, in terms of programming, events are so much bigger and so much higher dollar,” Chang said.

Contributing to a booming tourist economy Despite financial pressures, it’s no secret that the Fair and Expo Center has a significant impact on tourism across the region. Throughout the year, about 1 million visitors attend music festivals, rodeos, tradeshows and more. The size of the Deschutes County Fairgrounds allows the flexibility to do events of almost any kind. According to Hinds back in June, the Fair and Expo Center has done up to 11 simultaneous events on any single day across the campus. The grounds also has its two largest events by population or attendance size, the County Fair and its Fairwell Festival, which brought in close to 50,000 people on the property. “We try to make it as diverse as possible so that we’re attracting the widest possible crowd. We’re not just one thing. We don’t do just horse shows, we don’t do just music festivals. If you look at what we do, it’s really diverse. We have just a little bit of everything; it kind of runs the gamut,” Hinds said.

VOLUME 29 ISSUE 51 / DECEMBER 18, 2025 / THE SOURCE WEEKLY

hopes leadership can make these changes before going into the negatives. “Our goal will be to recognize budget savings or increase revenue each and every year so that we don’t dip below where we are today,” he added. The concerns around forecasted funding, Hinds said at the meeting, stem from both significant increases in overall costs, and the issues that come with an aging facility, requiring additional repairs and investments.

“As far as visitation, the numbers we pull show that this is the number-one developed tourist destination in all of Central Oregon. It actually gets slightly more than [Mt.] Bachelor and it gets more than Hayden [Homes Amphitheater],” Hinds told the Source. “We’ll get close to a million visitors on the property on an annual basis. The majority of those do come through in the summer, because that tends to be when our larger events are. Approximately 50% of those are people coming from out of the region; they’re coming from more than 50 miles… So that creates economic impact,” Hinds added. According to interim fair director Kropp, the estimated local economic impact generated by events at the Fair and Expo Center was $104,208,600 in 2023. In that year, the campus saw nearly 1 million visitors. While the fairgrounds impact the region as a whole, Redmond City Councilor Kathryn Osborne noted the secondary benefits to the City of Redmond, in addition to its surrounding communities. From a citywide perspective, attendees of large events fill Redmond hotels, campgrounds and shortterm rentals, and keep small businesses and restaurants busy, she said. “This activity generates a positive economic ripple effect,” Osborne said, referencing the benefits of more transient lodging tax revenue as a result of Fair and Expo events. The tax revenue helps fund important projects throughout the region, helping strong local businesses grow and thrive. “They’re able to hire more local workers, partner with other local businesses, and give back by sponsoring community events and donating to local causes,” she told the Source. “In turn, that stability helps families pay their bills, put food on the table, and build a more secure future here at home.” The Fair and Expo Center director, according to the job description, is responsible for “overseeing event production, community partnerships, staff leadership, capital improvement planning and year-round operations across the entire campus.”A new person has not yet been selected for this job, but plans continue to find a new director to lead the Fair and Expo Center. Deschutes County administrator Kropp has been the interim Fair and Expo director since Hinds’ departure. According to Kropp, Deschutes County opened recruitment for the director position soon after Hinds left. The County conducted in-person interviews at the end of October and despite a strong candidate pool, did not end up with a hire. Kropp told the Source the County will most likely re-open recruitment for the position in December and continue recruiting through January. “We are proud of the rich history and excited about the future. The Deschutes County Fair and Expo Center is the premier facility of its kind in the Northwest,” said Kropp. “The mission is to provide and operate a premier multi-purpose facility offering exceptional customer service and an environment of fun while maximizing the economic potential of the facilities as well as the economic impact for Deschutes County.”

NAMASPA FOUNDATION

New Year Celebration Classes WWW.BENDSOURCE.COM / DECEMBER 18, 2025 / BEND’S INDEPENDENT VOICE

Special Events Yoga Classes with Music, Treats, and More! Supporting the Namapsa Foundation and its mission to bring yoga to everyone.

New Year’s Eve

9:30am Playful Practice with Ann Boyd, Live Music with Lilli Worona & Mike Biggers 12:00pm Drum Circle with Two Drumming Seans, Pepers and Murphy. Bring your own drum or borrow one here 4:00pm Power Flow with Suzie Newcome, Live Music with Wayne Newcome 5:30pm Power Beats & Mocktails with Sarah Valenzuela

New Year’s Day

7:30am Sunrise Power Flow with Bruce Morris, Live Music with Jared Eisenhauer 10:00am Power Flow with Suzie Newcome, Live Music with Pete Kartsounes More Details to Be Announced.

SOURCE PICKS THURSDAY

12/18

FRIDAY

12/18 – 12/22

12/19

SATURDAY

12/20 15

UKRAINIAN WINTER CRAFT LAB VERTEP MASKS, TEA AND DJ DALLLEA Newski FB

BRETT NEWSKI & THE BAD INVENTIONS AN EVENING OF ALT-AMERICANA

Brett Newski’s music lives somewhere between ‘60s folk-rock and ’90s alternative, blending sharp-edged storytelling with raw, melodic energy. After gaining early attention touring in South Africa, he built his career on the American songwriter circuit, relentlessly touring and fueled by an independent spirit. Newski delivers a scrappy, outsider take on rock ’n’ roll that’s both engaging and unapologetically his own. Thu., Dec. 18, 7pm at Silver Moon Brewing. 24 NW Greenwood Ave., Bend. $15.

THURSDAY

12/18

Step inside the magical world of Vertep—Ukraine’s cherished winter folk theater—and create your own traditional mask in this cozy, hands-on workshop for all ages. Guided by beautifully crafted templates from acclaimed Kyiv artist Tetyana Fedosenko, you’ll design, paint, and decorate your own Vertep character. Whether you come with kids, friends, or simply your creative spirit, you’ll leave with a finished mask ready to wear the following night for Ukrainian Winter Caroling (Dec. 20.) Fri., Dec. 19, 4-6pm at Café Des Chutes. 50 SE Scott St., Bend. Free; donations welcome.

SATURDAY

Patagonia’s Bend location hosts this screening of one of the brand’s latest film collaborations: “Dig: An Alaskan Snowboard Film.” Stick around after the film for a Q&A with Patagonia’s Snow Ambassadors and enjoy light snacks and refreshments. Folks from Central Oregon Avalanche Center will also be in-store to talk about backcountry safety. Thu., Dec. 18, 7pm at Patagonia Bend. 1000 Wall St., Suite 140, Bend. Free; registration required.

SUNDAY

12/21

12/20

Hopefully the weather starts cooling down here soon— but for guaranteed hot guitar solos, Rhythm and Blues night is the place to be. Featured artists are Chicago Bob and the Blues Benders, Bigfoot County and Brother Gabe Johnson. Get ready to boogie. Sat., Dec. 20, 7pm at Silver Moon Brewing. 24 NW Greenwood Ave., Bend. $20.

NEVER COME DOWN WITH SKILLETHEAD “DIG” FILM SCREENING

MTYC will offer up cozy, community vibes and festive treats at this weekend’s makers market. In very Christmasy spirit, Santa and Mrs. Claus are expected to make an appearance while you shop locally-made gifts. Sat., Dec. 20, Noon-5pm at Midtown Yacht Club. 1661 NE Fourth St., Bend. Free.

RHYTHM AND BLUES HOLIDAY BASH BLUES AND ROCK AT SILVER MOON

SATURDAY

Patagonia Bend

SIXTH ANNUAL MAKERS MARKET AT MIDTOWN YACHT CLUB

12/20

Never Come Down brings a smart, charming and off-beat sound shaped by diverse backgrounds and wide-ranging musical tastes. The band confidently blends the modern with the tried-and-true, creating something both fresh and familiar. Never Come Down’s growing reputation has earned it a loyal following and standout performances everywhere from Reykjavik’s Iceland Airwaves to San Francisco’s Hardly Strictly Bluegrass, along with tours supporting respected acts like Yonder Mountain String Band and The Travelin’ McCourys. Skillethead is a favorite of the high desert string band scene. Sat., Dec. 20, 7pm at The Belfry. 302 E. Main Ave., Sisters. $30.

Volcanic Theatre Pub

SIERRA TO BAKER FILM SHOWING + LIVE MUSIC

Follow Stratton Matteson and friends on a 2,000-milelong split-board and bicycle journey from the Sierra Nevada to the northern reaches of the Cascades. The evening will also feature music by Trinity Jane, who blends folk traditions with the rougher edges of indie sounds. Sun., Dec. 21, 6pm at Volcanic Theatre Pub. 70 SW Century Dr., Bend. $27.

MONDAY

12/22

MONDAY NIGHT TRIVIA SPECIAL EDITION AT PROST!

Usually a weekly Wednesday affair, Useless Knowledge Bowl (UKB) is moving its popular trivia night for two weeks only, on account of the holidays. Wednesday scheduling will resume in January. Bring your family and pals to compete for prizes and test your inner catalog of facts. Mon., Dec. 22, 7pm at Prost! 40 SW Century Dr., Bend. Free.

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 14

FRIDAY, JANUARY 16

SATURDAY, JANUARY 17

"STOP MAKING SENSE"

THE TRAVELING WILBURYS REVUE

RON ARTIS II W/ COUSIN CURTISS

HOSTED BY JERRY HARRISON OF TALKING HEADS

VOLUME 29 ISSUE 51 / DECEMBER 18, 2025 / THE SOURCE WEEKLY

Midtown Yacht Club

Kolovita

WWW.BENDSOURCE.COM / DECEMBER 18, 2025 / BEND’S INDEPENDENT VOICE 16

COCC Professor and Conductor of Central Oregon Symphony to Retire

SOUND Michael Gesme looks forward and back after almost 30 years

entral Oregon is preparing to say thank you, and somewhat of a goodbye, to a man who has been an absolute pillar of the musical community for almost 30 years. Michael Gesme has been the conductor of the Central Oregon Symphony for his entire career here in Bend, in addition to his work as professor of music at Central Oregon Community College, director of the Cascade Winds Symphonic Band, adjudicator, guest conductor for a variety of regional symphonies and much more. His retirement from COCC and the symphony marks a significant change not just in his life, but also for the music world of Central Oregon. Gesme’s leadership has also included operas, musicals, chamber groups and more collaborations than one can count. His life’s work (so far) is a testimony to his musical prowess, excitement and energy — gifts that he has infused into our community which have resulted in diverse and exquisite music we have been rather spoiled to experience. the Source: As you experience your last year as Professor of Music at COCC and conductor of the Central Oregon Symphony and various other musical ensembles, what are some of the major highlights of this year for you? Michael Gesme: While this is my last year, and I acknowledge that it is a milestone after 30 years, the reality is that this season is no different than any other. This season is in no way a “bucket list” of the music I’ve always wanted to do. It is a continuation of my overarching goal as a music director, which is to program music that works well for the ensembles that I direct, and which I hope will inspire our audiences and musicians. Specific highlights include the return of the Central Oregon Symphony’s Virginia Riggs Children’s Concert in late January 2026; a performance of Robert W. Smith’s monumental “Symphony No. 1, ‘Divine Comedy’” with the Cascade Winds in March; the premier of a commissioned work for mezzo soprano and orchestra by [local composer] Chris Thomas for the April concert of the Central Oregon Chamber Orchestra, and Respighi’s “Pines of Rome” will, of course, be a grand undertaking by the COS (Central Oregon Symphony) in May. OperaBend’s production of Strauss’ Die Fledermaus will round out the season in June. I am blessed to be able to be a part of so much amazing music in such a short time! tS: How have you seen the arts community in Central Oregon change over your 29.5-year tenure MG: When I look back over the past three decades, I am intrigued by how things have evolved with the performing arts. There are some organizations that were here when I came in the 90s that are no longer in our community, the Cascade Festival of Music, for example. Many, like the COS, Cascade Chorale, Youth Choir of Central Oregon and the COCC Big Band Jazz have been proudly doing their work for nearly 60 years, growing and developing with the changing scene. Others, of course, have come and gone. But I’m grateful to the many organizations that sensed a niche that needed to be filled and are now thriving in our community, such as the Cascade Horizon Community Band, Bend Pops Orchestra, BEAT, Central Oregon Mastersingers, TMP, High Desert Chamber Music, Greenhouse Cabaret and the list goes on. tS: Speaking of all these great musical organizations,

Benjamin Edwards

This is Conductor Michael Gesme's last season directing the Central Oregon Symphony.

I know you have been planting seeds that Bend should have a performing arts center of its own. Do you have a feeling about when this might finally happen? MG: This is a challenging question. I have been championing this cause since the late 90s and, frustratingly, there have been a number of reasons for why it hasn’t happened. The current push, led by the Central Oregon Center for the Arts, has tremendous momentum and is further along in the process than any other attempt with which I have been involved. We are currently involved in a lengthy and exhaustive site selection process, led by some amazing West Coast performing arts consultants, that compares all the positive and negative aspects of potential locations around Central Oregon. If all goes smoothly and a site and size is identified, along with agreements with a partnering institution, if required, the next phase will be a detailed cost assessment followed by major fundraising. If someone were to offer up 100 million dollars to make this happen, we could have shovels in the ground within a few years and a facility open around 2030. However, the reality is that fundraising for something this significant is a process that will take time and the contributions of thousands of individuals and businesses who passionately wish to see this happen. Optimistically, the window for the grand opening is likely six to eight years if all stays on track. That said, I would love to be wrong and attending performances in a new facility before the end of this decade. tS: Fingers crossed! I read that you applied for the position at COCC right after graduate school in Missouri, and this has been your only official “job” since college, so retiring will be a huge life change for you. What excites you about the next phase of your life? MG: True. Big change for sure! What excites me the most is the opportunity to do what Janet, my wife, would like to do. She has a passion for learning and teaching languages that is insatiable, so we are exploring options where her passions can be exercised and realized. tS: When did you know that you wanted to be a conductor?

"Know your ensemble: not just what they can do musically, which is incredibly important, but know the people who are in the ensemble. Treat them like your family, because they are. If they know that you care, truly care, they will move mountains to do what you ask of them." — Michael Gesme MG: I have known that I wanted to “do music” since I was about five years old. My parents tell a cute story about how, at the conclusion of every Sunday church service, I would hang over the railing of the organ loft to watch the person and the action that was making those amazing sounds. What “doing music” was certainly evolved over the next dozen years. I had the opportunity to direct both the band and the choir multiple times when I was in high school and those experiences definitely put me on the conducting path. In college I initially thought that I would be a choral conductor, but I fell in love with orchestra after about two weeks on campus and, as they say, never looked back. tS: As you pass the baton to a new conductor, what advice or encouragement would you like to give them? MG: Bend is an amazing place. Community support for the arts is tremendous, and it is important to be involved in and give back to that community. Know your ensemble: not just what they can do musically, which is incredibly important, but know the people who are in the ensemble. Treat them like your family, because they are. If they know that you care, truly care, they will move mountains to do what you ask of them.

VOLUME 29 ISSUE 51 / DECEMBER 18, 2025 / THE SOURCE WEEKLY

By Julie Hanney

WWW.BENDSOURCE.COM / DECEMBER 18, 2025 / BEND’S INDEPENDENT VOICE 18

LIVE MUSIC & NIGHTLIFE

CALENDAR

Ticket and promote your events with BendTicket! Steely Dead FB

17 Wednesday to put your name on the list! Drink specials every night. 9pm-2am. Free.

Sisters Depot Jordan Wolfe Catch Jordan Wolfe live! As the lead conspirator of Wolfehouse Records, he brings a dynamic mix of original songs and captivating performances. Expect energy, emotion, and a sound that sticks with you long after the music ends. 6-8pm. $10.

The Capitol The Capitol Karaoke Music

The Commonweath Pub SHINE SHINE covers classics from the 60S, 70s, 80s, 90s and beyond. Come prepared to dance, sing, listen and have a grand time. 7:30-9:30pm.

The Cellar Live Music with Danger Gently Head down to The Cellar every Wednesday to enjoy live music from Danger Gently, a talented rotating cast of characters playing old-timey jams! 6-8pm. Free.

Suttle Lodge’s Fireside Concert Series: Austin Quatliebaum Most Thursdays from November through May, we have some fireside live music. RSVP required for overnight lodging guests to claim complimentary seats. Food & Drink available from our Skip Restaurant during the show. 6-8pm.

Weekly Karaoke at its finest! Central Oregon’s premiere karaoke experience has just moved locations! Now at the Capitol! Drink specials! Air guitars! Come see for yourself. 8pm-1am. Free.

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. Great for first timers to experienced performers. FREE 7:30-9pm. Free. 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. Every 2nd Wednesday. 7-10pm. Free.

Hosmer Bar Trivia Night Join us midweek for brainy banter and cold drinks! Whether you’re a seasoned quiz champ or just in it for the laughs, gather your crew and test your knowledge! See you there! 7-9pm. Free. Market of Choice Bend Scrabble Club at

Market of Choice We meet upstairs. We use the 7th edition of the Scabble Players Dictionary. New Scrabble players are welcome. If you have a Scrabble set, please bring it as a backup. 6-8:30pm. Free.

Niblick and Greenes at Eagle Crest Eli Madden Eli Madden( Call Down Thunder) jams acoustic crowd pleasing covers and tasty originals at Nibs! 6-8pm. Free.

Northside Bar & Grill Mellow Wednesday Open Mic Night Come down for our Open Mic Night hosted by Derek Michael Marc!!! Sign up at 530pm to get a spot to play! 5:30-8pm. Free. Pinky G’s Pizzeria Music Bingo Join us for

Music Bingo (think name that tune meets tradition bingo). Every Wednesday! Free to play and prizes for the winners. 6pm. Free.

Ponch’s Place Bingo Wednesdays at Ponch’s

Place Enjoy Bingo at Ponch’s Place on Wednesdays. 5:30-7pm. Free.

Portello Lounge Music Bingo Join us for

Music Bingo, hosted by the always entertaining Rachel Fishman, who keeps the crowd singing and laughing all night! It’s the perfect bonus to your night out enjoying great food, drinks and good company at Portello! 6:30-8:30pm. Free.

Prost! - Bend WTF! Wednesday Trivia Fun!

Genuine UKB Trivia is truly unique and entertaining trivia for you! Independent, locally owned and operated. Please bring something to write with and some positive vibes, too :). 7pm. Free.

The Commonweath Pub McKenna Deep sultry vocals combined with a variety of music styles including rock, jazz, country, blues, and swing. Maggie McKenna, international “Piano Bar” celebrity recently returned to Central Oregon after a lifelong performing performing career playing at casinos, Royal Cruise lines, Disneyland, ski resorts, 5 star hotels and resorts throughout Europe. 7-9pm. $45.

The Suttle Lodge & Boathouse

Steely Dead is a nationally touring band satisfying the souls of Grateful Dead and Steely Dan fans alike. Thu., Dec. 18, 9m at The Domino Room.

The Suttle Lodge & Boathouse Jazz

at the Suttle Lodge Join us for Dirty Jazz with Wolfe House Records, first and third Wednesdays of the month, all winter long! RSVP required for overnight lodging guests to claim complimentary seats. Food & Drink available from our Skip Restaurant during the show. 6-7pm.

Unity Community of Bend Carol O Gram Bring holiday cheer with a visit from our four carolers led by a Sol-Shine member. They’ll come to your home, workplace, party, or senior center in Redmond, Sisters, or Bend to sing three festive favorites. 1-7pm. $50. Upp Liquids Bend Comedy Open Mic The Bend Comedy Open Mic, every Wednesday at UPP Liquids. All peformance types and ages are welcome! 7-9pm. Free. Wonderland Chicken X Worthy Brewing Karaoke Wednesdays Sing your heart out,

enjoy a cold beer and fried chicken! 7-11pm. Free.

18 Thursday The Astro Lounge Karaoke Get here early

to put your name on the list! Drink specials every night. 9pm-2am. Free.

Bunk+Brew Karaoke Thursdays Sing your heart out at Bunk + Brew’s Karaoke Night! Whether you’re a pro or just love the spotlight, all voices are welcome. Food carts available all evening! Located in the Historic Lucas House Living Room for winter. 7-10pm. Free. The Cellar Live Irish Trad Music with The Bal-

lybogs! Join us for a night of live music featuring Bend’s Irish Trad band, The Ballybogs! Every Thursday at The Cellar. Seats fill up, so get there early if you can! 6-8pm. Free.

Crave Bend COMEDY OPEN MIC NIGHT

Comedy Open Mic Night on the SW side of Bend! Adults only encouraged. Intimate, smaller venue, healthier food and beverages, and an interactive night of comedy every Thursday! Hosted By Hopper. 7-9pm. Free.

Dogwood At The Pine Shed Tropical

Thursday Tropical Latin Dance Party at Dogwood is the place to be every third Thursday of the month! Join us for a night of sizzling rhythms and spicy moves at Dogwood at The Pine Shed. Get ready to dance the night away to the hottest Latin beats by DJ SOLO. 7-10pm. Free.

The Domino Room Steely Dead: A Sonic

Fusion of The Grateful Dead & Steely Dan Steely Dead is a national touring band that has satisfied the curiosity of music lovers with their unique blend of Grateful Dead and Steely Dan, comprised of four exceptionally talented musicians. 9pm-Midnight. $25.

Funky Fauna Artisan Ales Spectral Sounds Open Mic Drop in for Open Mic every Third Thursday starting at 6pm, come hang out, drink Saison and maybe accidentally summon something. Free to attend & free to perform. Visit our website funkyfaunabeer.com/events to sign up to perform or swing by night of. Third Thursday of every month, 6-8pm. Free. Hosmer Bar Bingo Night Your week just found its highlight—bingo! Join us for drinks, good company and a little friendly competition. Pull up a chair, grab a board and let’s make some memories! 7-9pm. Free. HOST Supper Club Trivia We’re teaming up with the rad folks of QuizHead Games to test your might! Bring your friends, your family, or play solo! 7-8:30pm. Free. The Lot Skinny Dennis Skinny Dennis is an acoustic duo featuring Bill Sterling (guitar, vocals) and Rodney Toogood (bass, vocals). Classic rock, ‘80s indie pop, and original songs. Skinny Dennis’ sound will get you and your friends smiling and moving to tunes you know while discovering new favorites! 6-8pm. Free. Monkless Belgian Ales - The Abbey

Christmas Movie Trivia Gather your friends & family and put your holiday film knowledge to the test: The Santa Clause, It’s a Wonderful Life, The Nightmare Before Christmas, White Christmas and The Grinch. 6-8pm.

Ponch’s Place Trivia Thursdays at Ponch’s

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

River’s Place Big Treble Acoustic guitar, slide guitar, Fiddle, lots of three part harmonies and jamming to well known songs done in their unique style. 6-8pm. Free. Silver Moon Brewing Brett Newski & Guests Alt-Americana songwriter Brett Newski has been described as a “collision of highway 61 Bob Dylan & 90s alternative.” Newski initially gained attention touring in South Africa before building a career on the American songwriter circuit. He coined the term “ameriCONa” to describe his scrappy, outsider take on Americana rock n roll. 7-10pm.

19 Friday Blacksmith Public House Juju Eyeball Enjoy FREE live music by Juju Eyeball from 6:30pm10pm. Our venue is kid and dog-friendly, and we have a full bar, 12 taps, 7 food truck options, and plenty of indoor and outdoor seating! 6:30-10pm. Free.

Cafe des Chutes Ukrainian Winter Craft Lab: Vertep Masks, Tea, DJ DallLea Step inside the magical world of Vertep— Ukraine’s cherished winter folk theater—and create your own traditional mask in this cozy, hands-on workshop for all ages. Guided by beautifully crafted templates from acclaimed Kyiv artist Tetyana Fedosenko, you’ll design, paint, and decorate your own Vertep character. Whether you come with kids, friends, or simply your creative spirit, you’ll leave with a finished mask ready to wear at our Ukrainian Winter Caroling Night Dec. 20. 4-6pm. Free. The Commonwealth Pub Shine With three vocalists, two guitars and bass, Shine covers classics from the ‘70s, ‘80s, ‘90s and beyond. 8pm. Free. Craft Kitchen and Brewery Dirty Minds Trivia: Christmas Edition Get ready to sleigh the night with a holiday twist on your favorite naughty-sounding, totally innocent trivia game! It’s time to find out who’s been naughty, who’s been nice, and who’s just really good at thinking dirty. 7-8pm. Hardtails Bar & Grill Stage 28 Karaoke Come out for a night of Stage 28 Karaoke with your host Miss Min! What’s your go-to karaoke tune? Come to Hardtails for a fun Friday night and sing your heart out! 8pm-Midnight. Free. Ponch’s Place Evan Mullins Enjoy Friday night music! 6-8pm. Free. Portello Lounge Jordan Wolfe Residen-

cy Join us for a monthly live music residency featuring Bend’s own Jordan Wolfe. Enjoy soulful vocals, acoustic grooves, and an intimate atmosphere paired with Portello’s signature cocktails, wine and bites. 6:30-8:30pm. Free.

Silver Moon Brewing 40oz To Freedom: Sublime Tribute ‘40oz to Freedom’ is an accomplished and highly energetic Sublime tribute band and winner of the 2010 San Diego Music Award for Best Tribute Artist.40oz has toured the entire US, Canada, and Mexico for more than 16 years, amassing a loyal and enthusiastic following. They are authentically the closest thing to Sublime, since Sublime. 40oz was founded in SoCal in 2007 and is currently based in Denver, CO. 7-10pm.

Submitting an event is free and easy. Add your event to our calendar at bendsource.com/submitevent

19 VOLUME 29 ISSUE 51 / DECEMBER 18, 2025 / THE SOURCE WEEKLY

The Astro Lounge Karaoke Get here early

→

WWW.BENDSOURCE.COM / DECEMBER 18, 2025 / BEND’S INDEPENDENT VOICE 20

EVENTS

TICKETS AVAILABLE AT

Silverleaf Cafe Coyote Rider 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 Commonweath Pub Dry Canyon Stampede Dry Canyon Stampede (DCS) is a Central Oregon favorite of Country Western dance fans. From slow ballads to high energy foot-stompin’ tunes, DCS covers it all, touching on 70 plus years of great country songs. 4 vocalists that sing lead as well as harmony. Great fun! 8-10pm.

Unity Community of Bend Carol O Gram

Bring holiday cheer with a visit from our four carolers led by a Sol-Shine member. They’ll come to your home, workplace, party, or senior center in Redmond, Sisters, or Bend to sing three festive favorites. Noon-7pm. $50.

Wildwood Bar & Grill Eel Sallad With roots in Blues, Grunge, Rock, Americana, and Folk, Eel Sallad’s sound has been coined ‘Pacific Northwest GrungeGrass’—a dynamic fusion of raw energy and heartfelt lyrics. Their music spans everything from sultry ballads to audacious anthems, delivered with a compelling stage presence that keeps audiences hooked from start to finish. 7-10pm. Free.

20 Saturday The Ale Apothecary Tasting Room Ale

Apothecary Winter Market The winter market at Ale Apothecary will feature an arrangement of Central Oregon vendors and local gypsy swing band, The Brandon Campbell Trio. Come grab a beer and do a little last minute shopping with us! 2-6pm. Free.

The Belfry Never Come Down with Skillethead Formed in 2017, Never Come Down was born from the vibrant if not occasionally overlooked music scene of Portland, Oregon. Much like the city that inspired them, they’re a smart, charming, off-beat amalgam of varied backgrounds and tastes. In today’s paradoxical world where honoring tradition is often pitted against exploration and innovation, the band confidently walks the line between the modern and the tried-and-true. 7-11pm.

the Vineyard - Jessie Leigh Christmas Concert Nashville recording artist Jessie Leigh creates music that embodies the heart and soul of small-town America with a patriotic spirit and heartfelt lyrics. Born and raised in a rural Oregon community, Jessie’s upbringing instilled in her a deep love for her country and community, which shines through in her music. 5-8pm. $25.

Open Space Event Studios Improv Show-

case 500 Improv Showcase 500 blasts onto the BIC stage for out last show of 2025! Sat Dec 20 at 7:30PM! A fast-moving, unpredictable, laughout-loud night of fearless performers creating wild characters, sharp scenes, and big-hearted chaos right before your eyes. One show only— come get electrified! 7:30-9pm. $20.

Portello Lounge Pina Colada: A Night of

Yacht Rock Join us for live music, great food and drink, and time with friends. Reservations or walk-ins welcome! 6:30-8:30pm. Free.

River’s Place Saturday Jazz Sessions Lonnie Mardis Quartet ~ Jazz standards with a special holiday flare 6-8pm. Free. Silver Moon Brewing Rhythm and Blues Holiday Bash Rhythm and Blues Holiday Bash with Big Foot County and the Blues Benders. Presented by Bend Blues Festival. A night of Blues, rock and roll during the holiday season. 7-11pm. Silver Moon Brewing No DNB: Klippee & Wavhart Winter Solstice Party w/ Klippee & Wavhart. 7:30pm-2am. $17-$20.

Sisters Depot Open Mic Free Entry! Our monthly Open Mic gives Sisters Country musicians a place to hear each other, cross-pollinate, and build musical community. For music lovers, it’s a chance to see a variety of local talent, in a lively atmosphere. Food and shareables available. 7-9pm. Free. The Commonweath Pub The Substitutes

Bend Cider Co. Big Treble Come out and

Blacksmith Public House Grits and

Volcanic Theatre Pub Billy Wayne Davis - Comedian Billy Wayne Davis has appeared on Conan, Last Comic Standing, Comedy Central, lent his voice & producing skills to SquidBillies, hosted a travel doc for CMT, opened for Sturgill Simpson, and made a quick appearance in Borat 2. 7-10pm. $27.

Gravy Enjoy FREE live music by Grits and Gravy Stringband from 6:30pm-10pm. Our venue is kid and dog-friendly, and we have a full bar, 12 taps, 7 food truck options, and plenty of indoor and outdoor seating! www.blacksmithpublichouse. com 6:30-10pm. Free.

Bridge 99 Brewery Family-Friendly Kara-

oke Night Looking for family fun? You’ll find it every Saturday night at Bridge 99 Brewery. Family-friendly karaoke is hosted by DJ Jackie J and A Fine Note Karaoke Too from 6-9 PM. Adults, kids and good dogs welcome. 6-9pm. Free.

Cafe des Chutes Ukrainian Caroling Night: A Magical Evening with Inna Kovtun After crafting your Vertep mask the night before, step into an unforgettable Ukrainian winter celebration filled with music, warmth, and cultural magic. Ukrainian Winter Lab 102 | A Magical Evening of Caroling with Inna Kovtun invites families, friends, and neighbors to gather for a luminous evening of live carols, delicious holiday foods, and a joyful community sing-along rooted in tradition. 4-6pm.

High Desert Music Hall Bend Burlesque Co. presents: Babes in Toyland Bend Burlesque Company presents “Babes in Toyland,” where Mother Goose whimsy meets Santa’s Workshop magic. Enjoy playful fairytales, vintage va-va-voom, and festive sparkle in this holiday burlesque spectacular. Dress in your holiday finest, grab early discount tickets, and elevate your night with VIP or Front Row seating. 8-10pm. $30-$80.

As Central Oregon’s self-appointed “Rock And Roll Border Patrol,” The Substitutes have been defending their (and your) right to rock since 1996. For over two decades they have dedicated themselves to honoring the tradition and integrity of what it means to be a rock band. 8-10pm.

listen to the dynamic trio of Big Treble as they perform their fun style of blues, rock, & country tunes in our backyard tent! Dress warm and enjoy delicious ciders, beer, wine, & n/a beverages with friends around the fires. Light appetizers available, outside food welcome. Free. 3-5pm. Free.

Ikebana Dreaming

Faith, Hope & Charity Vineyards Live at

Wildwood Bar & Grill Solstice with Mark Ransom & The Mostest Led by guitarist Mark Ransom and bassist Pat Pearsall (creators of the Bend Roots Revival) this well-seasoned quintet delivers butt-shaking grooves and well-crafted original compositions, with powerful technical proficiency. Featuring Seren Slade on vocals, Dylan Bernal on drums and local legend Patrick Ondrozeck on keys. REAL DEAL. Admission Is Free! 7pm. Free.

21 Sunday The Commonwealth Pub Head Games

Trivia Night Eat. Drink. Think. Win! Live multi-media trivia every Sunday @ 6pm. The Commonwealth Pub - Bend Free to play. Win prizes. Teams up to 6. 6-8pm. Free.

Using traditional Japanese materials and techniques, create your own festive holiday centerpiece—the art of ikebana. The event is hosted by Ikebana Dreaming. Sun., Dec. 21, 1pm at Flourish of Tumalo.

Dogwood At The Pine Shed Okay Karaoke

Sing your favorite songs with friends, enjoy professional sound and lighting, and let the spotlight shine on you. Hosted by the dynamic Tammy Larsen, it’s the perfect night out for music lovers and party people alike. Noon-11pm. Free.

River’s Place The Brainy Brunch Trivia! Use-

less Knowledge Bowl Trivia presents “The Brainy Brunch!” Bring your crew of friends or family and a pen/pencil! Play for fun and gift cards, play for free! Experienced, independent, locally owned and operated! Noon. Free.

River’s Place Coyote Rider Exciting new singer/songwriter project, with Kim Kelley on guitar and vocals and Kat Hilst on cello, mandolin and vocals. Americana/folk 5-7pm. Free. The Commonweath Pub Talamh Dubh & Friends Talamh Dubh is a trio with collective ties to Ireland and a love for Irish music. Their name, “Dark Earth” in Gaelic, pays homage to the volcanic ground of the Cascade range upon which the group formed. Featured in their repertoire are jigs, reels, hornpipes, marches, waltzes, and songs. 4-6pm. Unity Community of Bend Rafe Pearlman with Daniel Berkman Winter Solstice Concert Rafe Pearlman with Daniel Berkman will be with us to welcome in the Winter Solstice. Doors open at 6PM and concert and ceremony start at 6:30 PM. See the ticket link for more details. We hope you can join us for this beautiful evening. Noon8pm. $30-$50.

22 Monday Bevel Craft Brewing Christmas Movies Trivia Join us for Christmas Movies Trivia at Bevel! Test your knowledge on your favorite holiday classics (movies to be announced). Free to play, teams up to six, and an Ugly Sweater Contest with prizes! Win Bevel gift cards! Trivia runs 6-8pm, with questions by the one and only Bevel Beard. 6-8pm. Free. The Commonwealth Pub Monday Night Musicians Open Showcase and Jam Calling all musicians, singers and performers! Join us for a weekly open showcase where you can share your talent, connect with other artists and perform in a welcoming atmosphere. Bring your instrument — backline is provided. 5-9pm. Free. M&J Tavern Vinyl Night Monday Night just got

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

On Tap Locals’ Day Plus Live Music Cheaper

drinks all day and live music at night, get down to On Tap. 11am-9pm. Free.

Prost! - Bend Special Edition Monday Trivia Night at Prost! Bend With Xmas and New Years Eve falling on Wednesdays this holiday season, Trivia Fun at Prost! Bend is temporarily moving to Mon., Dec. 22 and 29, 7pm. Come out with the gang! Play our unique brand of trivia for team prizes and have a blast! 7pm. Free. River’s Place $4 Pints Monday Night Football Fall, football, and beer! This week we feature Barley Brown’s Beer. $4 pints and swag giveaways! 6 big screen TVs. Sound will be on for the game. For the non beer lover, we also have $4 Tieton Cider pints and $2 off house wine. 5-8pm. Free. The Oxford Hotel Patrick Lamb’s Charlie Brown Christmas For a unique holiday experience, we present Patrick Lamb’s Christmas. Lamb, an award-winning saxophonist celebrated for his dynamic contemporary jazz interpretations, reimagines the beloved Vince Guaraldi Trio score with a fresh, energetic approach. This isn’t just nostalgia; it’s a vibrant and sophisticated take on a cherished classic, attracting families, holiday music lovers, and jazz aficionados seeking a unique and uplifting experience. 3-5pm.

23 Tuesday The Astro Lounge Karaoke Get here early

to put your name on the list! Drink specials every night. 9pm-2am. Free.

Beach Hut Deli Tip of the Tongue Trivia Come out and play Tip of the Tongue trivia for a chance to win some great prizes and show off your trivia skills! 6-8pm. Free. The Capitol The Capitol Karaoke Music

Weekly Karaoke at its finest! Central Oregon’s premiere karaoke experience has just moved locations! Now at the Capitol! Drink specials! Air guitars! Come see for yourself. 8pm-1am. Free.

The Commons Cafe & Taproom Open Mic StoryTellers open mic nights are full of music, laughs and community. Mason James is the host. Poetry, comedy and spoken word are welcome, but this is mainly a musical open mic. Performance slots are a quick 10 minutes each, so being warmed up and ready is ideal. If you wish to perform sign-ups start at 5pm in the cafe. 6pm. Free.

Elements Public House Trivia (&Taco) Tuesdays Quiz fans of Redmond: bring your crew this week for UKB live trivia & more! Delicious menu favorites, brews, cocktails, plus Taco Tuesday menu! Play for gift card prizes or just for fun. Bring good vibes and a pen. 6:30pm. Free. Greg’s Grill The Harris Blake Band Christmas Special Enjoy songs people know! Live Christmas Music sprinkled in-between songs people know! Musicians: Nancy Blake, Dan Harris, Jim Roser and Greg Young 5-8pm.

VOLUME 29 ISSUE 51 / DECEMBER 18, 2025 / THE SOURCE WEEKLY

Sisters Depot Friday Nights with Tony Lompa Fridays • 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM (when no other events are scheduled during that time) Tony Lompa brings the vibe to Sisters Depot most Fridays. If the weather’s nice, he plays in the courtyard. If not, he plays upstairs at Frankie’s. No cover—just order food or drinks. 6-8pm. Free.

CALENDAR

WANT TO PROMOTE YOUR UPCOMING EVENT IN CENTRAL OREGON? SUBMIT IT FOR FREE AT BENDSOURCE.COM! IT’S SIMPLE

22 WWW.BENDSOURCE.COM / DECEMBER 18, 2025 / BEND’S INDEPENDENT VOICE

1. Click on the “Submit Event” tab at BendSource.com 2. Log in (or create a username and password)

3. Enter the venue, date, time and details of your event and click SUBMIT

Happy Holidays from your friends at

EVENTS

TICKETS AVAILABLE AT

The Lot Trivia Tuesdays Stop scrolling and

streaming, get out of the house and flex your brain. Your friends will be excited for the invite,

Pinky G’s Pizzeria TRIVIA NIGHT Test your

knowledge in a casual/laid-back atmosphere. Pizza, beer and trivia. Free to play and prizes for 1st and 2nd place. 6-8pm. Free.

The Commonweath Pub Tuesday Night

Jazz with T5 Jazz Come enjoy a great night of jazz music at the pub with Thomas Tsuneta and T5 Jazz. 7-9pm. Free.

The Oxford Hotel Patrick Lamb’s Charlie Brown Christmas For a unique holiday experience, we present Patrick Lamb’s Christmas. Lamb, an award-winning saxophonist celebrated for his dynamic contemporary jazz interpretations, reimagines the beloved Vince Guaraldi Trio score with a fresh, energetic approach. This isn’t just nostalgia; it’s a vibrant and sophisticated take on a cherished classic, attracting families, holiday music lovers, and jazz aficionados seeking a unique and uplifting experience. 6-8pm.

MUSIC

Ravensong Choir Holiday Performance Enjoy holiday tunes with Ridgeview

High School’s premier a cappella choir. These dedicated students share a passion for musical excellence, community building, and a love for singing. Dec. 17, 3:30-4pm. Redmond Public Library, 827 SW Deschutes Ave., Redmond. Contact: 5413121029. laurelh@deschuteslibrary. org. Free.

Swingin’ Tower Christmas Enjoy the return of our family-friendly holiday salute to the liveliest songs and stories of the season. Host Mollie Tennant (“Annie”, “Cats,” “Mamma Mia,” “Les Miz”) heads a cast of local performers accompanied onstage by her husband Jim’s live 16-piece big band. Thu, Dec. 18, 7pm, Fri, Dec. 19, 7pm, Sat, Dec. 20, 7pm and Sun, Dec. 21, 2pm. Tower Theatre, 835 NW Wall St., Bend. Contact: 541-317-0700. info@towertheatre.org. $44-$54.

DANCE

Adult Ballet Class Come learn or rediscover the art of ballet on Tuesday nights! Adult Ballet is an open-level class for adult learners and dancers. Tuesdays, 12:30-1:30 and 6:45-7:45pm. Acadamie De Ballet Classique, 1900 NE 3rd St #104, Bend. Contact: 541-3824055. dance@ abcbend.com. Varies: Drop-ins $25, 4-Pack or Register receives a discount!. Adult Jazz Dance Community Class

Join nonprofit Bend Dance Project for intermediate level adult jazz drop-in dance classes. Friendly supportive atmosphere. Get your dance on! Fridays, 12:15-1:45pm. Acadamie De Ballet Classique, 1900 NE 3rd St #104, Bend. Contact: 408-857-6773. jcliff@gmail.com. $10 donation.

Argentine Tango Classes and Social Dance Classes Wednesdays. Tango Fundamen-

tals progressive class 6:30pm; four-week series, join cohort on Facebook if brand-new. Main Práctica 7:30pm, intermediate class 8:15pm. After-hours práctica 8:45-9:30pm. Wednesdays, 6:30-9:30pm and Second Friday of every month, 7-9:30pm. Sons of Norway Hall, 549 NW Harmon Blvd., Bend. Contact: 9015505671. aneezerk@ gmail.com. $5-$10.

Belly Dance Classes 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, 123 Private Rd, Bend. Contact: https:// www.templetribalfusion.com/contact/. $20.

Skinny Dennis

Indian Dance Classes Indian Classical &

Temple Dance: excellent & supportive for any style of dance or athlete. Activate, balance and optimize your entire being, from the inside out! Includes yoga, hand gestures, sensual bends, head & eye postures and feet positions. Details and registration at www.templetribalfusion.com/ dance-bend. Wednesdays, 9:15-10:30am. Private Studio, 123 Private Rd, Bend. Contact: www. templetribalfusion.com/contact. $20.

Lindy Hop Social Dance and Lessons

Take back your night life! A vintage swing dance turned contemporary global phenomenon. Danced to classic jazz standards, Lindy Hop is an energetic, athletic and goofy way to connect with a partner. Sun, Dec. 7, 6-8:30pm, Sun, Dec. 21, 6-8:30pm and Sun, Dec. 28, 6-8:30pm. The Space, 63830 Clausen Rd, Bend. Contact: trevorsmith.or@gmail.com. $7-$12.

Lost and Found Bellydance Classes

Lost and Found Bellydance offers 6-week progressive sessions in improvisational bellydance, which covers foundational movements, formations and finger cymbals. Come join us in a fun and welcoming space--No experience necessary: this class is suitable for beginners. Studio C--upstairs; Entry door is on the right of the building Mondays, 7-8pm, Mondays, 7-8pm, Mondays, 7-8pm, Mondays, 7-8pm, Mondays, 7-8pm and Mondays, 7-8pm. Through June 29. Terpsichorean Dance Studio, 1601 NW Newport Ave, Bend. Contact: 541-420-5416. lostandfoundbellydance@gmail.com. $75.

The Nutcracker Grand Ballet Academy

invites you to The Nutcracker, A Magical Holiday Tradition! Journey with Clara and her Nutcracker through the enchanted Land of Sweets in Tchaikovsky’s beloved classic. This timeless production captures the wonder of the season for audiences of all ages. Tickets online or at the door! Dec. 20, 5-7pm. Sisters High School, 1700 McKinney Butte Rd., Sisters. $17.

Salsa Dance Classes - Intermediate Level Ready to take your salsa skills to the next

level? Whether you’re looking to improve your footwork or spice up your moves, our classes are perfect for dancers looking to enhance their salsa abilities. Get ready to groove to the rhythm and meet fellow dance enthusiasts. Tuesdays, 8:45-9:45pm. Through Dec. 23. Foundation Health And Fitness, 1105 SE Centennial St, Bend. Contact: 5413256676. latindancebend@gmail. com. 15.

Salsa Dance Classes: Beginner Level

Come join us at Foundation Health and Fitness for our exciting Salsa Dance Classes for beginners! Whether you have two left feet or are looking to brush up on your moves, this class is perfect for you. Tuesdays, 7:30-8:30pm. Through Dec. 23. Foundation Health And Fitness, 1105 SE Centennial St, Bend. Contact: 5413256676. latindancebend@gmail.com. $15.

ARTS + CRAFTS

Art Play Toddlers and preschoolers dive into process-based art through sensory stations, open-ended exploration, and hands-on creative play. With rotating themes and art stations each week, children develop independence, enhance fine motor skills, build expressive language abilities, and gain confidence through joyful experimentation and creative self-expression. Come dressed for mess! Ages 2-5 Thursdays-Saturdays, 10-11am. Two Suns Art Studio + MakerSpace, 70 SW Century Drive, Bend. Contact: 541-892-6471. taylor@twosunsartstudio.com. $25. Art with a Splash of Science: Kids Paint! Calling all young artists! Join us for a

fun-filled painting class where creativity runs wild and masterpieces are made. Wed, Oct. 15, 1-4pm, Wed, Oct. 22, 1-4pm, Wed, Nov. 5, 1-4pm, Wed, Nov. 12, 1-4pm, Wed, Nov. 19, 1-4pm, Wed, Dec. 3, 1-4pm, Wed, Dec. 10, 1-4pm and Wed, Dec. 17, 1-4pm. Tower Theatre, 835 NW Wall St., Bend. Contact: sarahanneswoffer@ gmail.com. $55.

Bill Sterling and Rodney Toogood are Skinny Dennis, playing covers of classic favorites alongside originals. Thu., Dec. 18, 6-8pm at The Lot.

Crochet Café Bring your crochet projects

and join your host, Fancy Nancy, and other crocheters at Fancywork Yarn Shop. This 2-hour hook session is designed specifically to foster community among the crochet crew. All skill levels are welcome in this weekly drop-in event. Thursdays, 1-3pm. Fancywork Yarn Shop, 200 NE Greenwood Avenue, Bend. Contact: 541-3238686. hello@fancywork.com. Free.

DIY DROP-IN DIY drop-in hours - where participants can dive into a variety of fine art projects at their own pace. Whether it’s drawing, printmaking, or collage, we provide all the necessary materials and guidance for individuals to unleash their creativity without hesitation! Reservations are not required, walk-ins are always welcome! Saturdays, 11:30am-5:30pm and Sundays, 11:30am-5:30pm. Through Dec. 31. FREAK’N ART, 1265 NW Wall st., Bend. Contact: 541-508-7438. hellofreaknart@gmail.com. 20-40. Handcrafted Wooden Pens: Holiday gift Workshop Create a one-of-a-kind

holiday gift that’s as meaningful as it is beautiful! In this hands-on class, you’ll learn how to turn a wooden pen on the lathe—a project that is both beginner-friendly and highly rewarding. Dec. 17, 6-8pm. DIY Cave, 444 SE Ninth St. Suite 150, Bend. Contact: 541-388-2283. classes@diycave. com. $129.

Starry Nights: Gouache Holiday Cards

Discover the magic of gouache in this holiday card workshop! Anastasia guides you through creating layered winter night mini paintings. Leave with five handmade cards and envelopes to share. All materials provided. A cozy, creative experience perfect for artists ages 8 and up to enjoy during the festive season ahead. Dec. 17, 5:30-7pm. FREAK’N ART, 1265 NW Wall st., Bend. Contact: 541-508-7438. hellofreaknart@gmail. com. $50.

Textured Nature the Surface of Things

Redmond artist Rebecca Sentgeorge explores the meeting point between sight and touch in her solo exhibit of mixed media paintings incorporating acrylic and found objects. In the Oxford hotel lobby through December. Dec. 1-31, 9am-10pm. The Oxford Hotel, 10 Northwest Minnesota Avenue, Bend. Contact: 541-382-8436. Free.

Winter Flower Bar Step into the magic of the

season at our Winter Flower Bar! Build your own Christmas bouquet with fragrant evergreens, snowy whites, rich reds, and sparkling seasonal accents. You’ll leave with a custom bouquet full of holiday cheer. Dec. 19, 4-7pm. The Grove, 921 NW Mt. Washington Dr., Bend. Price varies. Back at The Lot by popular demand. Celebrate the season with a hands-on floral experience - Create your own winter-inspired bouquet using fresh evergreens, seasonal blooms, berries, and sparkly accents! Fun for all ages! Dec. 20, Noon-3pm. The Lot, 745 NW Columbia St., Bend. Contact: passionflowersbend@gmail.com. Price varies.

Winter Wonderland Terrariums Create a magical winter terrarium in this festive holiday workshop! Craft a snowy scene inside a glass vessel using provided materials like fairy lights and seasonal accents. Bring tiny items from home to personalize your design. A fun, handson experience perfect for artists ages 8+—and a charming gift or décor Dec. 18, 5:15-7pm. FREAK’N ART, 1265 NW Wall st., Bend. Contact: 541-508-7438. hellofreaknart@gmail.com. $60.

PRESENTATIONS + EXHIBITS

Cute but Wild: Discovering the Lives of Fluffy Birds Stay cozy inside for an afternoon

program about our fluffiest local birds while learning about their stories and habitats. From our largest fuzzy owls to the smallest downy nuthatches, kinglets and bushtits, we’ll see beyond their unbearable cuteness into their fascinating lives in the natural world around us. Dec. 19, 2-3pm. Sisters Library, 110 North Cedar Street, Sisters. Contact: 5413121063. beccar@ deschuteslibrary.org. Free.

WORDS

Mystery Book Club “The Vanishing Place” by Zoe Rankin. Dec. 17, 6-7pm. Roundabout Books, 900 NW Mount Washington Dr., #110, Bend. Contact: 5413066564. events@roundaboutbookshop.com. Free.

Raging Writers / Spoken Words RAGING WRITERS/SPOKEN WORDS @SPORK, 937 NW Newport Ave, Ste. 130, Bend, OR, 3:30pm 5:30pm, One hour of inspiration and creative writing workshop, one hour of Open Mic. Free. All welcome. No food or beverages available, but lots of juice. Dec. 21, 3:30-5:30pm. Spork, 937 NW Newport Ave., Bend. Free.

Rediscovered Reads Book Club “The

Snow Child” by Eowyn Ivey. (Note we’re meeting one week earlier to avoid holiday conflict.) Dec. 17, 6-7pm. Roundabout Books, 900 NW Mount Washington Dr., #110, Bend. Contact: 5413066564. events@roundaboutbookshop.com. Free.

Third Thursday Spoken Word Night

Step up to the mic for a spoken word night the third Thursday of the month. All writers and readers and word-lovers invited to attend and read. Readers are invited to arrive early to sign up. Readers have seven minutes at the mic. Food and drink are available for purchase. Dec. 18, 6-8pm. Provisions Market at SCP Redmond, 521 SW Sixth St., Redmond. Contact: 5413121063. beccar@deschuteslibrary.org. Free.

VOLUME 29 ISSUE 51 / DECEMBER 18, 2025 / THE SOURCE WEEKLY

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

CALENDAR

WWW.BENDSOURCE.COM / DECEMBER 18, 2025 / BEND’S INDEPENDENT VOICE

Happy Holidays to you all and an Amazing 2026! Thank you for supporting our Specialty Shop in Bend!

Holiday Hours

12/22 Closed 12/23 10-5 12/24 10-6

12/25 Closed 12/26 10-5 12/27 - 12/28 10-5

12/29 - 12/30 Closed 12/31 10-5 1/1 Closed

930 NW Brooks St, Bend 503-577-3848 wildpetalsbend.com @wildpetalsbend

EVENTS

TICKETS AVAILABLE AT

Tower Theatre

CALENDAR

VOLUNTEER

Bunny Rescue Needs Volunteers

CASA Volunteer Open Enrollement Our

next CASA volunteer training begins January 13 with weekly Tuesday evening Zoom sessions through March 3, and with seventy children in foster care still waiting for an advocate, now is the time to step up by applying at casaofcentraloregon.org/volunteer to make a meaningful difference in their lives this year. Tuesdays, 5-8:30pm. Through Jan. 9. Contact: 5413891618. training@casaofcentraloregon.org.

Hosted by Mollie Tennant, Swingin’ Tower Christmas is an ode to the liveliest songs and stories of the season. Theatrical and fun, all backed by a 16-piece band. Shows run Thu., Dec. 18-Sun., Dec. 21 at the Tower Theatre.

Writing Wednesdays at the OAC Join

us every Wednesday night from 7pm-8:30pm for a free evening of writing, connection, and creativity. 1st & 3rd Wednesdays: Poetry Workshop; 2nd & 4th Wednesdays: Writing Workshop. Open to adults 18+, all levels welcome. Bring your notebook, your voice, and your curiosity. Let’s write together! Questions? Email: claire@ theopenartscenter.org Wednesdays, 7-8:30pm. The Open Arts Center, 999 NE 2nd Street, Bend. Contact: 978-771-4635. claire@theopenartscenter.org. Free.

ETC.

Holiday Gift Wrapping Need help getting gifts wrapped? We’ve got you covered. Bring your gifts to be wrapped by volunteers and make a donation to support Unity as we wrap up the ‘50k to Light the Way Fundraiser’. No RSVP needed—stop by and give by donation during our community holiday event. Tue, Dec. 16, 1-7pm and Tue, Dec. 23, Noon-7pm. Unity Community of Bend, 63645 Scenic Dr., Bend. Contact: 503 354 6074. WINTER IS COMING: FREE SOLSTICE GATHERING & MEDITATION WALK Walk

to the fire at the center of the labyrinth with us on Winter Solstice! It’s a quiet, meditative walk (as opposed to our exuberant Summer Solstice gatherings). Cocoa, tea, & socializing afterward. Casual, nonreligious gathering. Dress for warmth & celebration. Bring flashlights, candles, wear sturdy shoes. No dogs please. Dec. 21, 7-8:15pm. Sisters Community Labyrinth, Hwy 242 & Hwy 20, driveway on W. Hood Avenue, Sisters. Contact: 503-997-0301. sisterscommunitylabyrinth@gmail.com. Free.

OUTDOOR EVENTS Bend Adult Volleyball Bend Hoops adult

open gym volleyball sessions offer players a chance to get together and enjoy some competition. To sign up, go to meetup.com and RSVP. Bring exact change. Sundays, 7-9pm and Saturdays, 7:30pm. Bend Hoops, 1307 NE 1st St, Bend. $10.

Bevel Putting Mayhem Disc Golfers!! Come

join us on Wednesdays for Bevel Putting Mayhem in the hop garden at Bevel! $5 entry, with an optional $1 perfect putt pot, and $1 off beers for players. Sign-ups start at 5:30, first putts at 6pm. All skill levels welcome - meet new friends! Wednesdays, 5:30-8pm. Through April 29. Bevel Craft Brewing, 911 SE Armour St., Bend. Contact: 5419723835. holla@bevelbeer.com. $5.

CORK Mom Squad This group is open to moms of all running levels! The focus of the group will be to connect with other moms, share advice/information on running while pregnant or with a family and to have fun! Meet back at the LOGE by 9:50am for coffee and chatting! Third Sunday of every month, 9-10am. Sisters Coffee - The Old Mill, 450 SW Powderhouse Dr., Bend. Contact: centraloregonrunningklub@gmail.com. Free. E-Bike Motocross Practice and Training Open Practice & Training. All Ages. All

Abilities. e-Bikes ONLY (no combustion vehicles) Stadium Lighting on e-Bike Course. Register at MX13MX.com Registration Tab or https:// secure.tracksideprereg.com/mx13mx/ Sat, Dec. 6, 6-7:30pm and Sat, Dec. 20, 6-7:30pm. MX13 MX, 7505 NW Eagle Dr, Redmond, OR 97756, Redmond. Contact: 5418155512. homan@justinhoman.com. 30.00.

Motocross Practice & Training Open

Practice & Training. All Ages. All Abilities. (3) courses; Motocross, Arenacross & Turn Track. Register at MX13MX.com Practice tab. Sat, Dec. 6, 12:30-4pm, Sun, Dec. 14, 12:30-4pm and Sat, Dec. 20, 12:30-4pm. MX13 MX, 7505 NW Eagle Dr, Redmond, OR 97756, Redmond. Contact: 5418155512. homan@justinhoman.com. 50.00.

Roller Skate Jam! Come skate with us—

quads and inlines welcome! We throw down at the courts off SE Wilson, next to the skatepark. Music, dancing, rolling and a friendly community of welcoming skaters. All levels and ages welcome. Tuesdays, 6-8pm. Ponderosa Park, 225 SE 15th St., Bend. Contact: 206-334-8488. joe@ joe-walker.com. Free.

FEATURED EVENTS UKRAINIAN CAROLING NIGHT A MAGICAL EVENING WITH INNA KOVTUN

NEVER COME DOWN W/ SKILLETHEAD SOLSTICE CELEBRATION!

NeighborImpact Volunteer Opportunities Support NeighborImpact and its programs!

Register as a volunteer, then browse open opportunities. Roles needed: Food Bank, HomeSource, facilities, special events and more! Mondays-Fridays. NeighborImpact Office - Redmond, 2303 SW First St., Redmond. Contact: 541-419-2595. grantj@neighborimpact.org. Free.

Redmond Family Kitchen Dinner Family

Kitchen is continuing to provide nutritious meals to anyone in need, now in Redmond! Volunteers prepare dinners and clean up afterward. Email Tori with any questions or sign up here: https:// www.signupgenius.com/go/RedmondDinner Mondays-Fridays, 2-4:30pm. Mountain View Fellowship, 1475 SW 35th St, Redmond. Contact: 631-942-3528. tori@familykitchen.org. Free.

Think Wild Virtual Volunteer Orientation Come to a Think Wild virtual volunteer

orientation to learn about Think Wild’s programs and the various ways that you can get involved, whether you have 30 minutes a year or 30 hours a week. RSVP to a specific date to receive the join link: https://www.thinkwildco.org/education/ volunteer-calendar/ Thu, Dec. 18, 11:30am12:30pm, Thu, Jan. 22, 11:30am-12:30pm, Thu, Feb. 19, 11:30am-12:30pm, Thu, March 19, 11:30am-12:30pm, Thu, April 16, 11:30am12:30pm, Wed, May 13, 11:30am-12:30pm, Thu, June 11, 11:30am-12:30pm, Thu, July 9, 11:30am-12:30pm and Thu, Aug. 6, 11:30am12:30pm. Contact: (541) 316-8294. hailee@ thinkwildco.org.

Volunteer at the Bend ReStore If you want to help make affordable homeownership a reality for individuals and families in Central Oregon, consider volunteering at the Bend ReStore! Ongoing, 9am-5pm. Habitat for Humanity ReStore, 224 NE Thurston Ave., Bend. Contact: 541-312-6709. Volunteer@brhabitat.org. Free. Volunteer CASAs Needed CASA stands

for Court Appointed Special Advocate. They are community volunteers who advocate solely for the best interest of children and youth in foster care. Our pre-service training classes are designed to equip you with the knowledge and skills needed to effectively advocate for these children. Apply today at casaofcentraloregon. org/volunteer. Ongoing. Rosie Bareis community campus, 1010 NW 14th Street, Bend. Contact: 541-389-1618. enoyes@casaofcentraloregon. org. Free.

a dog foster parent! There is a huge need and it is very rewarding, giving you a sense of purpose. Each dog is special. Thursdays. Contact: 458292-8362. HDRescueoregon.com.

Volunteer Opportunity! Volunteers wanted: Mustangs to the Rescue (MTTR) a (5013c nonprofit) desires help with all aspects of horse care. No experience necessary. Call 541-3308943 and leave a message. Mondays-Sundays, 9am-4:30pm. Mustangs to the Rescue, 21670 McGilvray Road, Bend. Contact: 541-330-8943. volunteer@mustangstotherescue. Free.

Volunteer, Feed the Masses! At Family Kitchen, the mission is to serve anyone who needs nutritious meals in a safe and caring environment. They have tons of volunteer needs - servers, cooks, shoppers, and more. Groups and teams wanted! Monthly or quarterly opportunities! Visit familykitchen.org/volunteer to fill out a volunteer interest form. Mondays-Sundays. Family Kitchen, 231 NW Idaho, Bend. Contact: tori@familykitchen.org. Free. Volunteering in Oregon’s High Desert with ONDA Oregon Natural Desert Association is a nonprofit dedicated to protecting, defending and restoring Oregon’s high desert. They engage the public in their work to improve the health of desert ecosystems by leading guided, small group, volunteer service trips in some of eastern Oregon’s most remote and beautiful landscapes. Visit www.onda. org/trips to find the full calendar and descriptions of current volunteer trip offerings. Ongoing.

Volunteers Needed for Humane Society Thrift Store Do you love animals and

discovering “new” treasures? Then volunteering at the HSCO Thrift Store is a great way to combine your passions while helping raise funds to provide animal welfare services for the local community. For more information visit the website at www. hsco.org/volunteer. Ongoing. Humane Society Thrift Shop, 61220 S. Highway 97, Bend. Contact: 541-241-3840. abigail@hsco.org.

Volunteers Needed! Calling all horse lovers! Happy Trails Horse Rescue needs volunteers! Can you help us help horses? Every other Sunday, 10-11am. Happy Trails Horse Rescue, 18929 Couch Market Rd, Bend. Contact: 541-241-0783. hthrvolunteer@yahoo.com. Free. Wildfire Recovery Work Party Roll up

your sleeves and help the Deschutes Land Trust spread native grass seed into areas impacted by heavy machinery during the Flat Fire. Volunteers will spread grass seed with electric spreaders and rakes in the temporary roads that were built by bulldozers as they fought the Flat Fire. Dec. 17, 11am-2pm. Aspen Hollow Preserve, Outside, Sisters. Contact: 5413300017. event@ deschuteslandtrust.org. Free.

GROUPS + MEETUPS

The “People Problem” Lab Resolve one real

people challenge. Get your next moves. Walk into 2026 with less noise. Join me on December 19 in Bend for a focused, in-person workshop (9–12 at The Haven). Bring one real people issue; leave with clarity, a doable step, and a human-centered plan. Pay What It’s Worth. Dec. 19, 9am-Noon. The Haven CoWorking, 1001 Southwest Disk Drive, Bend. Contact: 5414086654. info@moementum.com. $25.

Ticket and promote your events with BendTicket! BABES IN TOYLAND:

PATRICK LAMB'S LIVE STEVE CHARLIE BAND BROWN MILLER CHRISTMAS MUSIC & SOUND BATH High Desert OxfordHall Hotel Music

A HOLIDAY BURLESQUE SHOW

Cafe Des Chutes

The Belfry

High Desert Music Hall

SATURDAY DEC 20 @ 4:00pm

SATURDAY DEC 20 @ 7:00pm

SATURDAY DEC 20 @ 8:00pm

MONDAY SUNDAY DEC 222@@11am 3:00pm FEB

25 VOLUME 29 ISSUE 51 / DECEMBER 18, 2025 / THE SOURCE WEEKLY

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

Volunteer for Foster Dogs Volunteer to be

11am - 9pm, Monday - Saturday

By Fat Tony’s Chef Roberto Cardenas

DOORDASH

only on doordash AND UBER EATS

UBER EATS

WWW.BENDSOURCE.COM / DECEMBER 18, 2025 / BEND’S INDEPENDENT VOICE

Get 2 for 1 on any order of Wings

EVENTS

TICKETS AVAILABLE AT

Quattlebaum FB

Science & Nature Holiday Market Join Us at Expedition Club & Supply for a special selection of gifts celebrating outdoor hobbies, science and nature. Local artists, vintage maps, and gifts for astronomy, birding, rockhounding, and mushroom enthusiasts. All telescopes come with a free lesson and books are 25% off. Dec. 20, 10am-6pm and Dec. 21, 10am-4pm. Expedition Club & Supply, 5 NW Minnesota Ave #106, Bend. Contact: (541) 316-5654. hello@expeditionclub. co. Free. Armed with a banjo, cello banjo and guitar, Austin Quattlebaum's performances blend storytelling, humor and raw energy. Catch him at this week’s installment of the Suttle Lodge Fireside Concert Series. Thu., Dec. 18 at Suttle Lodge and Boathouse.

Bend Chess and Go Club Casual gathering for players of Chess and Go/Baduk/Weiqi. Informal and welcoming to players of all skill levels. We love teaching new people! Wednesdays, 6-9pm. Crux Fermentation Project, 50 SW Division St., Bend. Contact: 425-354-8867. leifawiebe@gmail.com. Free. Bend Ukulele Group Weekly Jam Begin-

ners and experienced players are all welcome at this weekly jam. Join us in the Box Factory for this fun and engaging time to share music! Tuesdays, 6:30-8pm. The Barrel Room at UPP, 550 SW Industrial Way ste #185, Bend. Contact: 206-7076337. jcreekm@gmail.com. $5.

Cascade Rack 12th Anniversary Event

Cascade Rack will be celebrating our 2th year in business on December 20th at our retail store at 310 SE Railroad Street. There will be a ‘Rigs and Coffee’ open to the public from 10am to 1pm, raffle to benefit Bend Endurance Academy, and in store specials. Dec. 20, 10am-1pm. Cascade Rack, 310 SE Railroad Street, Bend. Contact: 541-241-6255. info@cascaderack.com. Free.

Connect W’s Drop in Holiday Social Join us for some cheer before the year wraps up! Let’s gather to mix, mingle, and celebrate the season together at The Winery at Manzanita – Bend. This is an easy, drop-in-as-you-can evening of open networking & great conversation. Wine & beer available for purchase. Registration required. See you there! Dec. 17, 5-7pm. The Winery at Manzanita- Bend, 550 sw Industrial Way #194, Bend. Contact: 541-410-1894. info@connectw. org. Free. Dog Adoption Event Herding Dog Rescue of

Central Oregon adoption event! Come meet several nice dogs looking for their forever homes. They are great companions for your adventures and hugging. Most of all, they need a place to call home. Adopt or foster. Spay/Neuter to help reduce the population of overcrowded shelters/ rescues. Dec. 20, 11am-2pm. Bend Pet Express, east side, 420 NE Windy Knolls Drive, Bend. Contact: 458-292-8362. Herdingdogrescue@ gmail.com.

Rally League Night We are starting pingpong and foosball leagues! At the first few meetings, we will have round robin play, gauge interest and determine league formats. All ages and levels welcome. Wednesdays, 5-8pm. Rally Recreation, 549 NW York Dr, Bend. Contact: 541241-8581. info@rallyrecreation.com. $8-$10.

FUNDRAISING

Bingo for Senior Dogs RylieMay Rescue

Ranch is a senior dog rescue. Join us for bingo and wear your most festive attire. In addition to bingo and raffle prizes, Spider City donates $1 from every beverage and we’ll be awarding a prize to the person wearing the most holiday spirit! Dec. 18, 6-8pm. Come play bingo while supporting senior and disabled rescue dogs at RylieMay Rescue Ranch. Spider City will also donate $1 from all beverage purchases. It’s a fun, relaxed atmosphere and your friendly dogs are welcome to join. www.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.

Scout Troop 90 Christmas Tree Sale

Troop 90 Christmas Tree Lot Troop 90’s tree lot offers some of the most beautiful 6ft-10ft Nobile Fir trees in the state of Oregon. Proceeds go toward supporting our local scouts. Troop 90 will also provide trees to 3 homes in need through the Habitat for Humanity Home Ownership Program. Saturdays-Sundays, 10am-6:30pm, Wednesdays, 3:30-6:30pm and Thursdays-Fridays, 4:306:30pm. Through Dec. 21. Habitat for Humanity ReStore, 224 NE Thurston Ave., Bend. Contact: 541-604-0862. Bsatroop90bendoregon@gmail. com.

EVENTS + MARKETS

Holiday Pop-Up and Kids Makers Market We are opening our toffee kitchen for

Family Game Night Celebrate the beginning of winter break with a fun-filled evening of holiday music and interactive games! Family Game Night is the third Saturday of every month with a special deal for families-- but everyone is welcome. The more, the merrier! Dec. 20, 7-10pm. Rally Recreation, 549 NW York Dr, Bend. Contact: 541-241-8581. info@rallyrecreation.com.

a Holiday Pop-Up and decided to invite the next generation of Bend business owners! Enjoy complimentary hot cider & delicious toffee while you shop unique, hand-crafted gifts created by talented young entrepreneurs from Central Oregon. FREE entry and parking. Dec. 19, 4-7pm. Holm Made Toffee Co. Production Kitchen, 1234 NE 1st St, Bend. Contact: 541-315-5915. hello@ holmmadetoffee.com. Free.

Marijuana Anonymous Marijuana Anonymous is a fellowship of people who share the experience, strength and hope with each other that we may solve our common problem and help others to recover from marijuana addiction. The only requirement for membership is a desire to stop using marijuana. Entrance on Staats St. Mondays, 5:30-6:30pm. Bend Church, 680 NW Bond Street, Bend. Contact: 541-633-6025. curbdaherb@gmail.com. Free.

Magical Markets of Merriment The 5th annual Magical Markets are here, one of Bend’s more beloved holiday markets. With rotating vendors every weekend, we have a bustling selection of curated goods to offer, as well as the fabulous Sandra Claus serving up fresh baked cookies. Saturdays-Sundays, 10am-5pm. Through Dec. 21. Somewhere That’s Green, 1017 NE 2nd St., Bend. Contact: 541-330-4086. john@ somewheregreen.com. Free.

Silver Sage Trading Store Winter Sale At the Museum store, you get more than

a souvenir. Kick-start your year-end shopping at Silver Sage Trading. Find 20% discounts on most merchandise for Museum members, plus special discounts on holiday gift favorites. Then, on November 30, shop support the High Desert Museum on Museum Store Sunday! Ongoing, 11am-4pm. High Desert Museum, 59800 S. Highway 97, Bend. Contact: 541-382-4754. info@ highdesertmuseum.org. Free.

Vintage Rendezvous Discover unique

vintage to modern pieces while soaking in an incredible live atmosphere featuring beats from vinyl DJ Verndon and smooth saxophone vibes from Carson Hackbart. Grab a drink, browse the racks, and enjoy an evening of music, community, and timeless fashion. Hope to see you there! Dec. 19, 4-8pm. Crux Fermentation Project, 50 SW Division St., Bend. Contact: 5413256676. vintagehouse81@gmail.com. Free.

Winter Market at The Ale Apothecary Enjoy live music by The Brandon Campbell Trio while you sip great beer and shop local makers offering baked goods, art, crafts, and more. A cozy festive afternoon celebrating Central Oregon creativity. Dec. 20, 2-6pm. The Ale Apothecary Tasting Room, 30 SW Century Dr., Bend. Free.

FAMILY + KIDS

A Very Merry Monday A night of holiday tunes, fireside treats and festive fun. Happy hour all day! Jingle Belle & Beau Duo 5-7pm. Letters to Santa, hot chocolate, s’mores and ornament painting for the kiddos. Dec. 22, 5-7pm. On Tap, 1424 NE Cushing Dr., Bend. Christmas at The Oxford: Meet Santa!

Get ready for some festive fun in Downtown Bend! Santa is coming to his favorite place, The Oxford Hotel, and he can’t wait to meet you on December 20-21, 2025, 10 am to 2 pm! Holiday Crafts, Cookie Decorating, and Hot Cocoa Station in Santa’s Workshop - Free for Families Dec. 20, 10am-2pm and Dec. 21, 10am-2pm. The Oxford Hotel, 10 Northwest Minnesota Avenue, Bend. Contact: 541-382-8436. concierge@oxfordhotelbend,com. Free.

Fencing Learn the Olympic sport of fencing! High Desert Fencing Club offers instruction in Foil and Epee for 9-year-olds through adults. We offer a one-time free trial lesson on Tuesdays with a reservation. Fencing gear provided. Please email us at HDFencing@gmail.com to arrange a date for your free trial lesson. Mondays-Thursdays, 5:30-7:30pm. High Desert Fencing Club, 61445 S. Hwy 97 Suite D, Bend. Contact: 541419-7087. hdfencing@gmail.com. Free. Holiday Skate Gather and Gift Skateboard

gear donation and giveaway night. They will have previously collected skate gear for those that need it, while also collecting more gear that night for others outside of that evening. All skaters in need of gear can attend and look through items and pick up what they need. Dec. 18, 5-7pm. The Open Arts Center, 999 NE 2nd St, Bend, OR 97701, Bend. Contact: 5413121065. jennym@ deschuteslibrary.org. Free.

No School Day Camp: Aspiring Engineers, Build It, Break It, Fix It with Camp Fire Offered at Amity Creek Elementary

in Bend, No School Day Camps turn that “day off” into a day of creativity and fun themes! From kindergarten through 5th grade, we have you covered on those days Bend/La Pine Schools are out! Dec. 22, 9am-5:30pm and Dec. 23, 9am-5:30pm. Amity Creek Magnet School, 437 NW Wall Street, Bend. Contact: 5413824682. info@campfireco.org. $94.

Pictures with Santa Parents are welcome

to take free photos and let the kiddos tell Santa what they are wishing for. Dec. 20, 11am-2pm. Sisters Depot, 250 W Cascade Ave., Sisters. Contact: info@sistersdepot.com. Free.

Registration is Open for Spring Break No School Camps at Wondery Art and Adventure School Registration is

Open for Spring Break No School Camps. March 18th-20th, 23rd-27th 9am-3pm for grades K-6, Sibling discounts available. Come create with us, we have a fun variety of art projects for your creative kiddo. www.wonderyschool.com March 18th, 19th, 20th- Youth Art Month March 23rd27th- Earth Day Dec. 20, 7am-10pm. Contact: 434-603-0301. Julie@wonderyschool.com. Daily and Weekly options starting at $96.

Santa’s Elf Gather the family and enjoy lunch

surrounded by the glow of holiday decorations & the spirit of the season. Rumor has it that one of Santa’s very own elves will be slipping away from the workshop to pay us a special visit & see all the kiddos! Fri, Nov. 28, 10am-Noon-Sat, Dec. 6, Noon-3pm, Sat, Dec. 13, Noon-3pm and Sat, Dec. 20, Noon-3pm. Monkless Belgian Ales - Brasserie, 803 SW Industrial Way, Bend. Contact: 5417976760.

StoryTime Tea: A Journey Through Children’s Books Welcome to Storytime Tea, an enchanting afternoon where young readers and their caregivers can immerse themselves in the magical world of children’s literature while enjoying a delightful tea experience. This class is designed to nurture a love for reading, spark imagination, and create cherished memories through storytelling and interactive activities. Sat, Sept. 27, 2:30-3:30pm, Sat, Oct. 25, 2:303:30pm, Sat, Nov. 29, 2:30-3:30pm and Sat, Dec. 20, 2:30-3:30pm. The Peoples Apothecary, 1841 NE Division Street, Bend. Contact: 5417282368. classes@thepeoplesapothecary.net. $5.

Teen Babysitter Training in La Pine!

Camp Fire Central Oregon is offering babysitting training for teens ages 12-17, an opportunity to learn applicable skills including: basic child care, first aid and safety measures, engaging games and activities to play with young children, as well as some food preparation skills. Sat, Dec. 20, 9am-5pm, Fri, March 20, 9am-5pm and Mon, May 25, 9am-5pm. Rosland Elementary School, 52350 Yeager Dr, La Pine. Contact: 5413824682. info@campfireco.org. $135.

Toddler Open Play - Winter Break Bring your toddlers to explore and play in our vibrant indoor gym! Enjoy exciting activities like a Ninja Warrior obstacle course, climbing, slides, and age-appropriate toys. It’s a fun, safe space for your little adventurers to learn, explore, and grow. (10 months to 5 years) Mondays-Wednesdays-Fridays, 9-10:30 and 10:30am-Noon and Thu, Jan. 1, 9-10:30 and 10:30am-Noon Through Jan. 2. Free Spirit Yoga Ninja Play, 320 SW Powerhouse Drive, Suite 150, Bend. Contact: 5412413919. info@freespiritbend.com. $16. Winter Break Bushcraft Camp Winter

break survival skills camp for ages 9-12! All-outdoor camp. Dec. 22, 9am-3pm. Bend, RSVP for address, Bend. Contact: info@nighthawknaturalistschool.com. $150.

Winter Nights: Snowology! Wrap yourself

in the colors of the season (think silver or white – pajamas, onesies, track suits, all are welcome!) as we savor the ways winter can be warm and wonderful. We’ll start with cookie decorating, gift wrapping, dance parties, beverage tastings, and photo-boothing like Jack Frost. Dec. 18, 4-7pm. High Desert Museum, 59800 S. Highway 97, Bend. Contact: 5413824754. info@highdesertmuseum.org. Prices vary.

27 VOLUME 29 ISSUE 51 / DECEMBER 18, 2025 / THE SOURCE WEEKLY

MTYC Holiday Makers Market Our 6th Annual Holiday Makers Market is coming up on Saturday, December 20th! Come on down to enjoy delicious food, yummy drinks and shop small and local for last minute gifts! Santa and Mrs. Claus will be making their yearly MTYC appearance too! Dec. 20, Noon-5pm. Midtown Yacht Club, 1661 NE Fourth St., Bend. Contact: 458-256-5454. midtownyachtclub@gmail.com.

CALENDAR

WWW.BENDSOURCE.COM / DECEMBER 18, 2025 / BEND’S INDEPENDENT VOICE 28

EVENTS

TICKETS AVAILABLE AT

FOOD + DRINK

Christmas Pop-up Bar at Waypoint

Pancakes and Pajamas with Favorite Green Grump! Slip into your coziest holiday

jammies and join us at Currents at Riverhouse Lodge for a magical morning of festive fun on December 20 & 21 from 10 AM – 12 PM! Gather the whole family for a whoville-worthy a-lacarte breakfast adventure, where whimsy meets wonder. Dec. 20-21, 10am-Noon. Currents at the Riverhouse, 3075 N. Hwy 97, Bend. Contact: riverhouselodge@turnerpr.com.

Winter Solstice Dinner Join us for a

candlelit Winter Solstice dinner at The Monkless Brasserie. Reservations are open, with dinner beginning at 4:30PM. We’ll be serving our featured Solstice special, along with the warmth of good company shared on the darkest night of the year. Dec. 21, 4:30-10pm. Monkless Belgian Ales - Brasserie, 803 SW Industrial Way, Bend. Contact: 5417976760.

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. 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. Educators & Nurses Apprecation Day

We’re raising a glass to those who give so much! Join us for Nurses & Educators Day, where we show appreciation for the heroes in scrubs and classrooms. 50% off all beers and ciders for nurses and educators. Tuesdays. Cascade Lakes Pub on Reed Market, 21175 SE Reed Market Rd., Bend. Contact: 458-836-7866. jesse@cascadelakes.com. Free.

Flannel Friday Happy Hour Come on

down in your Northwest best for Happy Hour! 4-6pm every Friday. $2 off drafts, $1 off everything else. Fridays, 4-6pm. Contact: taryn@ thealeapothecary.com. Free.

Friday Happy Hour Tapas & Wine Kick

off the weekend the right way! Every Friday from 4pm on, swing by for a relaxing and social evening at Elixir Wine. $10 wine specials by the glass and $2 off regular glass pours, including our own Oregon & Washington wines. Fridays, 4-7pm. Elixir Winery and Tasting Room, 11 NW Lava Rd., Bend. Contact: 541-388-5330. tastingroom@ elixirwinegroup.com. Free.

Bend Poker Room is hosting our 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: 458-256-5454. midtownyachtclub@gmail.com. Free.

Happy Hour at Mountain Burger Happy

Hour happens every day at Mountain Burger! Ongoing, 3-5pm. Mountain Burger, 2747 NW Crossing Dr., Bend. Contact: 5416687177. info@ mountainburgerbend.com.

Happy Hour at Viaggio Wine Merchant

$7 and $8 glasses of wine, cold beer and delicious discounted snacks. Cheers! Tuesdays-Sundays, 3-5pm. Viaggio Wine Merchant, 210 SW Century Dr., Bend. Contact: 541-299-5060. info@ viaggiowine.com. Varies by Purchase.

Industry Appreciation Day! 20% off for all Industry friends! Wednesdays, 2-8pm. Contact: taryn@thealeapothecary.com. Free. Industry Night In homage to our fellow industry folk, featuring $3.33 Lagers, $6.66 Saisons & 10% off at A Broken Angel. Present your server or food handlers card at the bar. Tuesdays, 1-8pm. Through June 17. Funky Fauna Artisan Ales, 1125 NE Second St., Bend. Contact: 458-328-0372. danielle@funkyfaunabeer.com. Every Sunday is Industry Night! If you’re a bartender, server, chef, cook - anyone in the biz - come unwind with: $5 Hornitos or Monopolowa, $7.50 draft domestic beer + well whiskey, and $3.50 tallboys & $10 man-mosas (on special for all!). You work hard-cheers to you! Sundays-Noon-2am. JC’s Bar & Grill, 642 NW Franklin Ave., Bend. Contact: 541-383-3000. jcsbend@gmail.com. Free.

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. 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.

Taco & Margarita Tuesdays Enjoy 2/$10 chipotle chicken street tacos and $10 margaritas! Tuesdays, 4-9pm. Portello Lounge, 2754 NW Crossing Dr., Bend. Contact: 541-385-1777. 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: 541-385-1777. contact@portellobend.com. Free.

Tiki Tuesdays We want you to love rum as

much as we do! Every Tuesday we will feature a new rum at a discounted price. We hope you will 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 Mondays! Every Monday night all glasses of wine are $9! This is an opportunity to try wines from our vast wine list all night long and pair with either tasty small plates or delicious dishes by creative chef Nikki Munk. Mondays, 4-9pm. Portello Lounge, 2754 NW Crossing Dr., Bend. Contact: 541-385-1777. admin@portellowinecafe.com. Free. Wings + TRIVIA + Whiskey Enjoy $0.75 wings, $4.50 well whiskey, $6 seven & sevens while testing your knowledge with Trivia, hosted by our amazing Cole! Take on our infamous “physical” challenge - think paper airplanes, musical chairs, limbo etc! Come eat, drink and bring your A-game! Wednesdays, 7pm. JC’s Bar & Grill, 642 NW Franklin Ave., Bend. Contact: 541-3833000. jcsbend@gmail.com. Free.

HEALTH + WELLNESS

All Levels Acroyoga Class Experience

connection, community, and movement in this weekly acroyoga class. A stellar teaching team with a variety of skill sets will bring you unique class material each week. All levels class focusing on accessible progressions for both beginners and intermediate practitioners. Venmo @Buddy-Thomas-1 to reserve. Wednesdays, 7:45-8:45pm. Through Dec. 17. Lava City Cirque, 63075 Crusher Ave #105, Bend. $15.

Anchor with Amanita Step into an evening

of grounding and gentle exploration. Together, we’ll connect with the ancient wisdom of Amanita Muscaria through mindful learning and a short guided meditation to bring us into presence. From there, you’ll be held in the resonance of a live sound bath. Dec. 18, 6:30-8pm. Pine & Prism Wellness Collective, 856 NW Bond St., Suite 202, Bend. Contact: 9186715457. hello@pineandprism.com. $55-$70.

Central Oregon LGBTQ+ Peer Connection Online Support Group A peer-led

support group for adults (ages 18 and older) who identify as LGBTQ2SIA+ and are living with mental health challenges. A diagnosis is not required to participate. This group is facilitated by Central Oregon peers. Schedule: Meets the 1st and 3rd Tuesdays of each month. Every other Tuesday, 6-7:30pm. Contact: 541-316-0167. info@namicentraloregon.org. Free.

Concussion Support Group Hoping to learn more strategies for improving your memory and efficiently healing your brain after concussion? Come join our adult therapy group! Connect with others who have experienced concussion, practice strategies, and learn from other related professionals on a variety of topics related to concussion recovery. Every other Tuesday, 4-4:45pm. Through Feb. 3. Sagebrush Speech Therapy, 604 NW Harriman St., Bend. Contact: info@sagebrushspeech.com. Free.

NAMI Connection Peer Support Group

NAMI Connection Recovery Support Group is a free, peer-led support group for any adult who has experienced symptoms of a mental health condition. You will gain insight from hearing the challenges and successes of others, and the groups are led by trained leaders who’ve been there. Mondays, 7-9pm. Zoom, Zoom Online, Bend. Contact: 503-230-8009. info@namicentraloregon.org. Free.

Nervous System First Aid-December

Nervous System First Aid is a restorative class that teaches simple, evidence-based practices to calm stress, reset your body, and restore balance. You’ll leave with a personal toolkit to transform overwhelm into resilience—anytime, anywhere. Dec. 22, 4-5:15pm. Contact: 650 862 9336. willow@emergingheartscollective.com. Free.

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 my private studio for $175. You pick the date and time. Wednesdays, 12-1:30pm. EastSide Home Studio, 21173, Bend. Contact: 541-3309070. vancebonner@juno.com. $175 for 5 class series.

Tarot and Tea As 2025 draws to a close, cozy up with a tea while Tarot illuminates your path. Kati is an intuitive reader who empowers you to actively explore what you’re ready to call forward in 2026. Step into your sovereignty—let’s reflect and gain clarity together. Book ahead at threedeertarot.com Sat, Dec. 6, 11am-2pm and Sat, Dec. 20, 11am-2pm. The Peoples Apothecary, 1841 NE Division Street, Bend. Contact: 5417282368. hello@threedeertarot.com. $60. Winter Solstice Sound Bath Join Wendy

Schmitt on the Winter Solstice for an evening of rest and renewal. Guided ritual, mindful breath, and immersive sound open space to slow down and reconnect with your inner light — honoring the turning of the season and the quiet promise of new beginnings. Dec. 21, 7-8:15pm. Bend Yoga Center, 1230 NE 3rd Street, Suite A230, Bend. Contact: yoga@bendyoga.center. $25.

Women’s Rewilding; Grateful & Grounded~A Pre-holiday Reset for the Soul Join us for a nourishing pause to receive,

restore, and radiate~leave feeling, uplifted, and ready to meet the season with ease and grace! November Rewilding: Grateful & Grounded ~ A Pre-holiday Reset for the Soul Women are invited to take a pause before the holiday swirl begins, a sacred pause. Third Thursday of every month, 6:30-8:30pm. Through Feb. 19. Hanai, 62430 Eagle Rd, Bend. $28.

Yoga + Community Tea With Do Yoga Outside An hour of slow, intentional yoga and

30 minutes of Tea + Community Wednesdays, 6-7:30pm. Through Feb. 25. Yoga + Community Tea, 3091 NE Nathan Dr, Bend. Contact: 5416102779. hayley@doyogaoutside.com. $25.

29 VOLUME 29 ISSUE 51 / DECEMBER 18, 2025 / THE SOURCE WEEKLY

Get ready to jingle all the way at Bend’s official Christmas Pop-up Bar! It’s a Waypoint Christmas! Enjoy festive cocktails, over the top decor and DJ Freely spinning Christmas tunes. Fridays. Through Dec. 26. The Grove, 921 NW Mt. Washington Dr., Bend. Free.

Friday Night $80 Poker Tournament

CALENDAR

At The Pantry, every cup is crafted with intention.

30 WWW.BENDSOURCE.COM / DECEMBER 18, 2025 / BEND’S INDEPENDENT VOICE

We make coffee the way we move through our days, with warmth, care, and calm. Come in for a beautifully made latte, linger in a cozy corner, and enjoy a nourishing breakfast. While you’re here, reﬁll a few pantry staples, grab a beer or wine for the evening, or check out our upcoming events to meet your neighbors. Whether you're grabbing your morning coffee or settling in with friends, you’re always welcome here!

WINTER SPECIALS, MADE IN HOUSE, WITH LOVE Candycane Latte

Made with fresh peppermint leaves for true peppermint ﬂavor. An ode to a long-standing family tradition—sweet, nostalgic, and perfectly wintery.

Xocolatl Latte (sho-ko-LAH-tl) Cacao, cinnamon, and cayenne inspired by ancient ﬂavors. Rich dark chocolate from @seahorse.chocolate folded into a warming, spiced winter cup.

WE CAN'T WAIT TO MEET YOU! Closed 12/24 and 12/25 Normal hours all other days in Dec and Jan

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Best Seafood In Central Oregon 3 Time Winner Sebastian’s Seafood & Specialty Market, is a foodie’s dream retail shop! This holiday season, shop local for your dinner party seafood needs and gifts for everyone. They carry a variety of fresh seafood sure to please your guests. Pre-order seafood and sushi catering platters to make entertaining easier. Shop for gifts like specialty tinned fish, local seasonings, and artisan chocolates in the retail store. If you’re hungry, try the new PNW shrimp & crab melt from the cafe. Located at The Grove - NW Crossing SebastiansSeafoodbend.com • 541.728.0696

CHOW

LITTLE BITES

Galley Bend Lifts Off With Far East Flavor

By Nic Moye

By Donna Britt Donna Britt

Cotto launches the Arancini Club

Sarah Fink

alley Bend has slipped into the old Longboard Louie’s space off Highway 20 on Dean Swift Road and the transformation is a pleasant surprise. The new remodel features both low and tall tables, plenty of natural light and a full bar. The restaurant is the creation of two former flight attendants, Krid Sathirawongwan (Kris) and Sureeporn Tattumle (Kate), who spent a decade jetting across Asia and collecting favorite dishes along the way. After grounding their wings in Bend, the couple decided to open a spot where people could sample flavors from Seoul to Bangkok just 10 minutes east of downtown. “The menu is mostly Thai-food based,” says Kris, “but we have tried to remember what is the good food from destination to destination from our travels.” I visited twice. Once for takeout on a busy weeknight and once for a quiet lunch in-house when the clouds were low and the afternoon begged for something steamy and restorative. Both times the food showed up with heart and personality, the kind of cooking that feels like home. The standout for me was the Korean Fried Chicken, which Kris says is a top selling appetizer right now. The drumettes in a buttermilk coating, fried until they hit that sweet spot of crackly outside and juicy inside, come glazed in a glossy, garlic-forward Gochujang sauce that is sticky and sweet with just enough heat to make your lips pay attention. The chicken is exactly what fans of Korean fried chicken expect. A little messy. A little fiery. And very hard to put down. Each bite gives you tender meat tucked under that lacquered glaze and the small side salad and dollop of kimchi make it feel like a full little feast rather than a snack. It hits the table with confidence and it was just as good in a takeout container as it was fresh from the kitchen. I also enjoyed the Massaman Curry which Chef Kate describes as a fusion of Thai, Indian and Malaysian influences. It arrives fragrant and golden with coconut milk, potatoes, carrots, onion and peanut sauce mingling together in a warm aromatic swirl. There is Japanese rice on the side for scooping and mixing, depending on your style. The curry has a lovely balance. Deep comforting spice, mellow coconut richness and a slow-building warmth that makes the room feel cozier with each bite. What threw me off was the sliced avocado on top. I love avocado so I was not offended but it was unexpected on a Massaman Curry. Kate says it’s her favorite way to add creaminess to the bowl. The dish is hearty and satisfying and the portion is large enough to feed two people, which makes it a great take-out option when you want leftovers for the next day.

Since it was cold and damp outside I also ordered the Tom Yum soup. This is the clear broth version known as Tom Yum Nam Sai and it is exactly the thing your body craves when the weather turns raw. The bowl is generous and the flavor hits all the classic Tom Yum notes. Bright, herbal, spicy, tangy. Lemongrass and lime leaf give it lift. Chili provides the kick. It is simple and uncomplicated and absolutely perfect on a cold Central Oregon afternoon. And if you love Tom Kha coconut soup, you may want to try the signature martini inspired by Tom Kha. Kris, who’s also the Galley bartender, is very excited about the cocktail menu, which also includes a rum drink that is a riff on their sweet mango sticky rice dessert offering. There are also two signature margaritas rimmed with larb seasoning instead of plain salt or tajin — nice touch. One of the things I like about Galley Bend is how the menu reads like a postcard collection from the owners’ travels. There are veggie spring rolls and a Pink Noodle Soup made with fermented red bean curd. There are staples like Pad Thai and Singapore Noodles and plenty of sides for building a mixand-match meal. There is even a kid-friendly noodle soup. Chef Kate highly recommends her version of Crispy Pork Belly, which is her mother’s recipe and a specialty from her region of Thailand. Eastside diners have been waiting for more global cuisine options and Galley Bend answers that call with style. The food is bold without being showy. Traditional enough to feel familiar, yet infused with personal touches that make it their own. It is the kind of place where a weeknight takeout order feels special and an in-house meal feels like a small journey. I am already plotting my next visit and my list is growing. Pink Noodle Soup for sure. Probably the Pad Thai. Maybe the Singapore Noodles and definitely the mango sticky rice-inspired rum cocktail! Galley Bend has settled nicely into its new home and the kind couple behind it are thrilled to be here. “We love being in Bend,” smiles Kris, “and we appreciate all the local people welcoming us.”

otto Italian Street Food has launched an Arancini Club. Arancini are golden, crispy Sicilian rice balls traditionally stuffed, breaded and fried. “They’re comfort food with soul,” Cotto co-owner Sarah Fink told the Source. “Creamy risotto on the inside, an irresistible crunch on the outside, made for sharing, celebrating and savoring.” For $20 a month, members will receive a 4-pack of hand-made cheese Arancini to heat at home anytime the mood strikes. It comes cooked and frozen and can be reheated in an oven or air fryer. The package includes marinara sauce and is gluten friendly. Members pick up the rice balls at a specific time. This month, it’s Saturday, Dec. 20, between 2-5pm at Cotto’s food truck at The Podski on NW Arizona Avenue in Bend. Fink says they plan to make it a party with member perks such as free cannoli, a member discount at the Cotto cart and a dollar off drinks at The Podski during the event. Fink says they’ll begin the Arancini Club with local members but plan to launch it nationally with a shipping option next year. Cotto is currently gathering a waitlist for those interested when that becomes available. Fink says the Arancini Club is “designed for people who believe joy should always come in small, crispy spheres.”

Galley Bend Far East Cuisine

Mon,Tue,Thu,Fri 11am-2:30pm, 4:30-8:30p Sat-Sun Noon-3pm, 4:30-8:30p CLOSED Wednesdays 62080 Dean Swift Road, #100, Bend, OR IG galley.bend 458-206-0121

Cotto Arancini Club

The Podski 536 NW Arizona Ave., Bend cottobend.com/arancini-club $20 per month

31 VOLUME 29 ISSUE 51 / DECEMBER 18, 2025 / THE SOURCE WEEKLY

Former flight attendants turn their favorite foods into a homey neighborhood restaurant

A New Way to Enjoy Crispy, Cheesy Comfort Food at Home

WWW.BENDSOURCE.COM / DECEMBER 18, 2025 / BEND’S INDEPENDENT VOICE 32

CULTURE

Climbing Program Aimed at Unexpected Audience has Inspiring Results By Dallas Finn Calvert Destination Rehab

even years ago, Jess Burke was living in Portland, working as a disability analyst for the State of Oregon, and regularly hiking upward of 60 miles a month with her husband, Rod. She began experiencing stiffness in her neck, shoulders and right side, so her doctor prescribed physical therapy. “It wasn’t helping much, but I finally ended up with a therapist who said, ‘I think there’s a problem here,’” and recommended an MRI, Burke recalls. That was when the longtime athlete and lover of the outdoors found out she had Parkinson’s disease, a progressive neurological disorder that can cause motor symptoms, including tremors, decreased movement, stiffness, and balance issues. “I was having a really hard time,” recalls Burke, 67. “My right leg was dragging, and my right arm was swinging, so I started going to physical therapy, but it really wasn’t until I got to Destination Rehab that things started to change. I love it. It’s really made a big difference in my life, and I’m going to stick with it for as long as I can.” Jess Burke and Rod, 69, had moved to Bend, and an occupational therapist suggested that Burke check out the Central Oregon nonprofit (https://www. destinationrehab.org/) that provides recreation-based physical therapy for people who are experiencing neurological issues, such as those from strokes and spinal cord and brain injuries, Parkinson’s Disease, and multiple sclerosis. “I started getting really bad by the time we moved here, so I really needed to get into a program. This has worked really well for me. I don’t fall anymore. Well, maybe occasionally, but I was falling all the time,” Burke said of Destination Rehab, through which she attends regular exercise classes that have positively impacted her life, and not just from a physical standpoint. “It’s not just physical therapy, it’s a community,” she said. “Most of the people in the weekly exercise group are friends, and we have book clubs and other activities. It’s really made a big difference in my life because it’s not that you lose friends when you become disabled. It’s that people just kind of drift away because you can’t do that big hike anymore, or you can’t do this or that anymore, and so you just kind of start getting left out.”

Jess Burke climbs at the top of a wall at Bend Rock Gym, with Earl Alderson, left, belaying her.

Working with Destination Rehab has also led her to new athletic experiences, most recently at the Bend Rock Gym (https://www.bendrockgym.com/), which provides wall space and customized climbing routes to Destination Rehab participants who are learning to climb. Volunteers help with belaying and teaching climbing skills. Tim Han, director of operations for Bend Rock Gym, said gym staff regularly check in with Destination Rehab volunteers and therapists to determine what types of routes need to be set for participants. Some need routes with bigger handholds, while others don’t want to go too high or need shorter transitions between holds. Han said participants regularly tell him how much they’re enjoying the program. Many plan to continue to climb once completing the eight-week program. “Rock climbing has helped them, I think, because it’s a full body exercise

that’s also mental,” Han said. “Even though rock climbing seems to a lot of people to be scary and inherently sort of dangerous, it’s actually quite safe as long as everyone is doing their part. You’re using your whole body. You’re not just using your feet and hands. You’re also using your core and all kinds of shoulder muscles and lower-back muscles, and then the mobility that you need in your thighs to your knees to your ankles. It’s all really important.” For Burke, climbing has enabled her to learn a new sport while make new connections, including with Glenna and Earl Alderson, both 65 and longtime climbers. “I decided to do climbing in the gym because I’ve always been terrified of heights, and I wanted to try something that would challenge me,” Burke said. “The volunteers are experienced climbers, and they worked with us one-onone, so within about three weeks, I was

able to get to the top of one of the shorter walls, but still quite a distance up. “I was determined from the beginning to make it up to the top because that was my biggest issue. I would get halfway up, and then I’d look down and I’d freak out. But every time, I just went a little higher, and I finally got to the top,” she added. “Now, we’re working on different skills that help you climb. The volunteers are just awesome. Glenna and Earl have been so amazing. They’ve done a lot of work with me, and it’s made a big difference. They really know how to encourage you and help you, and they help you size up the puzzle, about which way to go and to climb. “The climbing has made me feel, well, not totally like myself because I was really athletic, but it makes me feel like I still have time to go and enjoy activities, even if maybe I can’t do them as well as I used to,” Burke said. The Aldersons, who met while students at Oregon State University, have been married for 42 years. They spent 32 years teaching outdoor activities at Hampshire College in Amherst, Massachusetts. When it was time to retire, they knew they wanted to head back to the Pacific Northwest, where Glenna was raised. Central Oregon beckoned because they could pursue their love of all things outdoors, including paddling, climbing, and biking. Having volunteered with a similar program in Massachusetts, they jumped at the opportunity to help with the Destination Rehab offering at Bend Rock Gym when they heard about it. “It’s a pretty amazing program,” said Earl. “For people with Parkinson’s, it’s pretty incredible. They might have difficulty walking, but once they get a harness on, and then you tie them in, and they’re on belay, they can climb and not have to worry about balance issues or falling.” Glenna agrees. “One woman told us that the climbing gym was really one of the only places that she felt that she wasn’t disabled. That really rang with me,” Glenna said. “She feels like she’s part of the community and that it’s OK to have different abilities. Everybody there is different. There’s a lot of different ages. There’s a lot of different abilities. But there’s something for everyone.”

VOLUME 29 ISSUE 51 / DECEMBER 18, 2025 / THE SOURCE WEEKLY

Destination Rehab program at Bend Rock Gym helps participants build physical skills and forge strong social connections

WWW.BENDSOURCE.COM / DECEMBER 18, 2025 / BEND’S INDEPENDENT VOICE

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in Loss SCREEN Shakespeare “Hamnet” finds creation in pain By Jared Rasic 35

amnet” opens on Agnes (a primally explosive Jessie Buckley) waking at the foot of a massive tree in the depths of an old-growth forest. She (as was her mother before her) is treated as a Woods Witch, a blend of mysterious naturopath and rugged outdoorswoman, more comfortable as a quiet falconer than engaging in society. She meets William Shakespeare (a quietly devastating Paul Mescal), a below average Latin tutor, and they immediately, wildly, fall in love. Agnes has visions of the future. One of which is that, by the time she is on her deathbed, she has two children. After giving birth to Susanna and then, years later, the twins Hamnet and Judith, she knows that having three children means tragedy will befall her family. What could have played as an overwrought historical drama focused on Agnes and William Shakespeare and their shared grief is instead a magically realist tone poem bolstered by two towering performances by Buckley and Mescal, served by tender and ethereal filmmaking by Chloé Zhao. As someone who has read nearly every word penned by Shakespeare while still knowing next to nothing about the man, I found “Hamnet” to be a fascinating peek at the spirit of this legendary figure. While Agnes and her unrelenting bravery and bottomless wells of empathy are the soul of the film, Mescal’s Shakespeare is the quiet heart, beating only for his art and family. Even though Mescal imbues the Bard with a lived-in immediacy, he’s still somewhat a mystery existing on the fringes of his

Focus Features

family’s life: off in London building a career as a celebrated playwright while his family lives free, running across the fields and forests of the countryside. I haven’t read the novel “Hamnet” by Maggie O’Farrell (who also co-wrote the screenplay with Zhao), but now I can’t wait to check it out. I would love to luxuriate in this world longer and explore in more depth the nuances of these characters that I’m sure only abstractly resemble their real-life counterparts. While on the surface, “Hamnet” is ostensibly a look at what motivated Will Shakespeare to write “Hamlet,” it works best as an examination of grief and how two very different people approach healing. I’m curious whether the book leans into the emotional or historical aspects more. It’s not really a spoiler to say that Hamnet dies of the plague, which absolutely shatters Agnes and pushes her into an almost feral mania, while it causes Shakespeare to retreat into his writing, penning “Hamlet” as a form of therapy. “Hamlet” as a play doesn’t initially seem like it would have any real relation to the sweet young boy (played by the preternaturally gifted Jacobi Jupe) who tragically dies before experiencing much of the life ahead of him. O’Farrell makes the connections beautifully with her script, but Zhao does something much more elemental by crafting a tone and mood that feels equal parts emotionally honest and magically surrealist. “Hamnet” as a film has no truck in literalism; instead would rather craft a sense of supernatural mysticism born from the ancient forests of the United Kingdom.

The story of a Woods Witch and her playwright.

I wasn’t as emotionally shattered as I expected to be, but that might say more about me being dead inside than it does about the film not being resonant as a dramatic and heartbreaking work. What elevates “Hamnet” into something truly remarkable isn’t the script as much as it is the elegiac filmmaking from Zhao and the monumental performances of Mescal and Buckley. Their chemistry is animalistic and deliciously sexy, while their shared suffering never becomes histrionic like it easily could have been. Mescal has been a movie star for a minute, but Buckley has mostly been a brilliant character actor. Now she’s a full-blown force of nature. “Hamnet” will be the first of many Oscar nominations for her. Regardless of your feelings for the work of Shakespeare or Elizabethan

drama in particular, “Hamnet” almost defies categorization as a cinematic work. Equal parts powerfully dramatic and mercurially mystical, Zhao proves once again why she is an artist in rarified air as she crafts a film of such hypnotic force as to feel not just like an instant classic, but as a work that could be as timelessly eternal as Shakespeare’s best. Just don’t go into it expecting a biopic of Will Shakespeare. Instead, this is about the brilliant and enigmatic Agnes Shakespeare and her almost as interesting husband, Will. “Hamnet”

Dir. Chloé Zhao Grade: A Now Playing at Regal Old Mill

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VOLUME 29 ISSUE 51 / DECEMBER 18, 2025 / THE SOURCE WEEKLY

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Killed SCREEN Bill, Tarantino, Film Bros and the Whole Bloody Affair By Jared Rasic 37

Lionsgate

Uma Thurman owns every single frame of “The Whole Bloody Affair.”

Hanzō just to name three), his filmography is also weighed down by homage, pastiche and outright theft. After “Pulp Fiction’s” release and QT becoming feted by the media and filmmaking community, his ego became something of legend. So deeply involved in his own mythology that he wants to retire after making 10 films as to secure his own legacy, Tarantino turned this newly inflated ego toward his peers, publicly tearing down work that didn’t meet his limited and singular taste in cinema. Tarantino is the worst kind of film bro cinephile: one who only has an extremely narrow window of what he appreciates and everything that exists outside of that limiting space is subject to cruel and thoughtless hot takes designed to make people feel like crap. From Paul Dano to Matthew Lillard and David Letterman, he has fallen into the trap of being controlled by his own, all-encompassing ego. He makes movie nerds look bad and I guess I kinda take that personally. Ultimately, Tarantino has earned the right to comment on Hollywood in any way he wants, but the irony of him insulting anyone’s acting when, anytime he’s on camera in one of his own films, it’s easily the worst part of the movie. His acting in “Django Unchained” was so lifeless and his Australian accent so cartoonishly awful, I was pulled out of the world of the film, never to find my way back in. To call Dano “The weakest actor in SAG” must mean he’s never seen himself on camera before. The point is this: every time Tarantino opens his mouth publicly lately, I’m growing to despise him more and more.

His hot takes are weak, his taste in cinema is basic and juvenile and he seems to revel in being a blowhard bully spraying bile every which way he can…which is now sadly changing my relationship to his films. As much as I still respect and admire almost all of his movies, they’re holding less space in my heart as they once did. I’ve been waiting actual years to see “Kill Bill: The Whole Bloody Affair.” The film is the stuff of legend: a combination of “Kill Bill: Volumes 1 & 2” that adds new footage of O-Ren Ishii’s origin story and puts the color photography back into The House of Blue Leaves chapter, among other mostly cosmetic changes. It had been a long time since I’ve seen the “Kill Bill” films and having them play together, back to back (with a 15-minute intermission at the exact spot where the two films split) across 275 glorious minutes was worth the wait. The film flies by, barely feeling like two hours, let alone four, and it’s easier to notice the sly thematic depth that QT and Uma Thurman baked into the story. The Bride’s revenge story isn’t just deeply personal for her, but is an archetypal scream of violent rage for all women (which is why we don’t learn The Bride’s name until near the end of the film). She is every single abused woman on an odyssey to destroy her abuser (a faceless man for half of the runtime), who cathartically earns her happy ending through suffering and redemption. It’s still one hell of a movie, 20 years later. My issues with the film have always been there, like David Carradine being miscast as Bill (imagine that role played by Warren Beatty or Redford) and

Tarantino letting his peculiar peccadillos lead the script down one or two pointless dead ends. Still, the film remains an iconic masterclass in action cinema. If you didn’t like the movie 20 years ago, however, “The Whole Bloody Affair” won’t recontextualize the film enough to change your mind. It’s still the same movies, just made into one. Watching them as a double feature on your couch will give you a similar experience. What’s incredibly embarrassing, however, is the post-credit sequence…a ten-minute animated short called “The Lost Chapter: Yuki’s Revenge.” It follows Gogo Yubari’s sister, Yuki, who has come to America to enact revenge on The Bride for the death of Gogo. It’s without question the worst thing QT has ever had associated with his name in film. The entirety of the short was built with Unreal Engine 5, uses Fortnite models and skins and premiered a few weeks ago in Fortnite. This is corporate synergy at its absolute worst, adding a terrible short film, shoddily written and animated, to the end of a great movie to sell Fortnite to cinephiles. It’s cynical, ugly and hurts QT’s endless claims about the purity of his love of cinema. Please, if you love “Kill Bill,” leave the theater before the credits end and spare yourself this embarrassing cash grab. Watching this felt akin to seeing Kubrick direct a car commercial. So, here I am struggling with separating the art and the artist again. Maybe I’m aging out of QT’s earlier stuff, instead finding myself more drawn to “Once Upon a Time” and “Basterds” than the work drunk off of his own obsessions. I think I have to come to terms with the fact that, even though I will probably still watch or read any piece of art Tarantino puts his name on, I don’t think I ever want to be in a room with the guy. He’s exhausting and I’m already exhausted. You or I don’t have to like him to appreciate the brilliance of “The Whole Bloody Affair,” although it would be so much sweeter if we did.

“Kill Bill: The Whole Bloody Affair” Directed by Quentin Tarantino Grade: A Grade for “The Lost Chapter:” FNow Playing at Regal Old Mill

VOLUME 29 ISSUE 51 / DECEMBER 18, 2025 / THE SOURCE WEEKLY

have a complicated relationship with Quentin Tarantino. I rented “Reservoir Dogs” on VHS when I was 12 years old and it was the first movie that ever made me really understand the importance of dialogue in filmmaking. The way QT balanced tough guy dialogue with flawless needle drops and character-driven ultra violence felt like a revelation to me. Mr. Blonde dancing to “Stuck in the Middle With You” before slicing off a patrolman’s ear changed my brain forever and made me want to build a future around making movies and, if not that, then at least writing about them. Two years later, “Pulp Fiction” changed film forever by revolutionizing structure, adding a spark to storytelling that felt like an entirely new genre of film was invented. Tarantino immediately became one of those filmmakers lucky enough to be still alive while being lionized as a genius and an auteur. As groundbreaking as “Pulp Fiction” was in some ways, and as blazingly entertaining as “Jackie Brown,” the “Kill Bill” duology and “Inglorious Basterds” are, it wasn’t until 2019’s “Once Upon a Time in Hollywood” that his filmmaking really matured and could stand on its own. Because here’s the thing: there’s nothing in this world Tarantino loves more (aside from Uma Thurman’s feet) than genre movies and hearing himself talk about them. “Reservoir Dogs” is profoundly indebted to 1987’s Hong Kong action flick, “City on Fire.” His love of hardboiled, dime-store crime fiction influences “Pulp Fiction” from the ground up. With “Jackie Brown,” QT lovingly built a blaxploitation vehicle for Pam Grier from the foundation of her earlier work, like “Coffey” and “Foxy Brown.” The “Kill Bill’s” are a loving recreation of Shaw Brothers kung-fu flicks from the ‘60s and ‘70s. “Death Proof” is a grindhouse serial killer exploitation flick. With WWII thriller “Inglourious Basterds,” he would begin his revisionist history trilogy that would continue with the Antebellum revenge action movie “Django Unchained” and finish with the love letter to late ‘60s Los Angeles in “Once Upon a Time in Hollywood.” I think “The Hateful Eight” started from his love of American westerns and ended as a chamber piece retelling of “The Thing.” Not too sure about that one. Tarantino’s encyclopedic knowledge of movies builds the bones of all of his work, which, while mostly still breathtakingly original, are still held together by his cinematic obsessions of yesteryear. Even as he has crafted some of the most iconic characters in film history (Jules Winnfield, The Bride and Hattori

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New Meissner Bus to Shuttle Skiers & Snowshoers

meissnernordic.org

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Meissner Nordic has the largest groomed cross-country ski trail system in the state.

void the stress of jockeying for parking spots at the ever-popular Meissner Sno Park this winter by taking a new shuttle. The Meissner bus is scheduled to make three trips every Saturday and Sunday through March. The best part? It’s a bargain at $5 roundtrip! Visit Bend, Deschutes Trails Coalition and an anonymous donor contributed a total of $17,000 to the Meissner Nordic Ski Club to subsidize the bus. Cog Wild is managing the program including the online booking page, vans and drivers. The shuttle was supposed to start Dec. 1, but has been delayed due to a lack of snow. Once there is enough powder on the ground the shuttle will leave Bend on weekends at 7:30, 9:30 and 11:30am from the parking lot across from the Pavilion adjacent to the Bend Park & Recreation District’s Park & Float lot in the summer. It returns from Meissner to Bend at 10:30am, 12:30 or 2:30pm. Reservations are required as there is limited space for 12 passengers. The bus will leave promptly, so riders should arrive 15 minutes early to load up gear. Kirin Stryker, co-owner and operator of Cog Wild, says the goal is to reduce traffic on the Cascade Lakes highway, which is usually jam packed in the winter during weekends and holidays.

President of Meissner Nordic, Steve Roti, says the shuttle is a pilot program. Its future depends on whether there’s enough demand from skiers and snowshoers and whether additional funding can be secured for next season. In the past, a shuttle to Mt. Bachelor, operated by Cascades East Transit, made a stop at Meissner Sno-Park, but riders had to travel up to Bachelor before heading back to Bend, making it less appealing. Roti says the number of people using Meissner Sno-Park has grown. Meissner Nordic used to groom trails 4 days a week a decade ago but now maintains trails 7 days a week. “We’ve also added more ski trails to the network to spread people out and to give them more options,” Roti told the Source. “Meissner Nordic now has the largest groomed cross-country ski trail system in the state.”

Photo by Hannah Turner Photography

January 17, 2026 The Riverhouse at the Deschutes Convention Center

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ASTROLOGY By Rob Brezsny star-like iridescence on deep, dark glaze. The sublime effect results from a process that’s unusually demanding, highly unpredictable, and hard to control. Legend says that only one in a thousand bowls achieves the intended iridescence. The rest, according to the masters, are “lessons in humility.” I believe you can flourish by adopting this experimental mindset in the coming months. Treat your creative experiments as offerings to the unknown, as sources of wonder whether or not your efforts yield stellar results. Be bold in trying new techniques and gentle in self-judgment. Delight in your apprenticeship to mystery. Some apparent “failures” may bring useful novelty.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): In Greek mythology, Proteus was a sea god famed for his ability to change his shape endlessly to evade capture. But now and then, a persistent hero was able to hold on to Proteus through all his transformations, whether he became a lion, serpent, tree, or flame. Then the god would bestow the gift of prophecy on the successful daredevil. I suspect that in the coming months, you will have an exceptional power to snag and grasp Proteus-like things, Capricorn. As a result, you could claim help and revelations that seem almost magical.

CANCER (June 21-July 22): A fair-weather cumulus cloud typically weighs over a million pounds and yet floats effortlessly. Let’s make that one of your prime power symbols for 2026, Cancerian. It signifies that you will harbor an immense emotional cargo that’s suspended with grace. You will carry complex truths, layered desires, and lyrical ambitions, but you will manage it all with aplomb and even delight. For best results, don’t overdramatize the heaviness; appreciate and marvel at the buoyancy.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): In Florence, Italy, the

Accademia Gallery houses several of Michelangelo’s sculptures that depict human figures partially emerging from rough blocks of marble. They seem to be caught in the process of birth or liberation. These works showcase the technique Michelangelo called non-finito (unfinished), in which the forms appear to struggle to escape from the stone. In the coming months, Aquarius, I foresee you undergoing a passage that initially resembles these figures. The good news is that unlike Michelangelo’s eternally trapped characters, you will eventually break free.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): To prepare you for

2026, I’ve gathered three quotes that address your most pressing need and urgent mandate. I recommend you tape this horoscope to your bathroom mirror. 1. “We cannot live in a world interpreted for us by others. An interpreted world is not a hope. Part of the terror is to take back our listening, to use our own voice, to see our own light.” —author Elaine Bellezza. 2. “To be yourself in a world that is constantly trying to make you something else is the greatest accomplishment.” — Ralph Waldo Emerson. 3. “The ability to tell your own story, in words or images, is already a victory, already a revolt.” —Rebecca Solnit.

ARIES (March 21-April 19): Nine hundred

years ago, Sufi philosopher Al-Ghazali provided rigorous advice that’s not very popular these days. “To understand the stars,” he said, “one must polish the mirror of the soul.” Here’s my interpretation: To fathom the truth about reality, you must be a strong character who treasures clarity and integrity. It’s highly unlikely you can gather a profound grasp of how life works if your inner depths are a mess. Conversely, your capacity to comprehend the Great Mystery increases as you work on purifying and strengthening your character. Everything I just said is good advice for all of us all the time, but it will be especially potent and poignant for you in the coming months.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): The sound of

a whip cracking is a small sonic boom. The tip breaks the sound barrier, creating that distinctive snap. In my astrological reckoning, Taurus, life has provided you with the equivalent of a whip. During the coming months, you will have access to a simple asset that can create breakthrough force when wielded with precision and good timing. I’m not referring to aggression or violence. Your secret superpower will be understanding how to use small treasures that can generate disproportionate impacts. What’s your whip?

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): Some Japanese potters practice yohen tenmoku. It’s a technique used to create a rare type of tea bowl with shifting,

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22):

Every 11 years, the Sun reverses its magnetic polarity. North becomes south, and south becomes north. The last switch was completed earlier this year. Let’s use this natural phenomenon as your metaphorical omen for the coming months, Leo. Imagine that a kind of magnetic reversal will transpire in your psyche. Your inner poles will flip position. As the intriguing process unfolds, you may be surprised at how many new ideas and feelings come rumbling into your imagination. Rather than resist the cosmic acrobatics, I advise you to welcome and collaborate with them.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): The sculptor Lou-

ise Bourgeois was asked why she worked so often with the image of the spider. She said it was a tribute to her mother, who was deliberate, clever, patient, soothing, helpful, and useful—just like a spider. In the coming months, I invite you to embody her vision of the spider. You will have the wherewithal to weave hardy networks that could support you for years to come. Be creative and thoughtful as you craft your network of care. Your precision will be a form of devotion. Every strand, even fragile ones, will enhance your long-term resilience.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Researchers study-

ing music theory know that dissonance—sounds that feel “wrong” or create tension—is in part culturally determined. Indonesia’s gamelan music and Arabic maqam scales are beautiful to audiences that have learned to appreciate them. But they might seem off-kilter to Westerners accustomed to music filled with major thirds and triads. Let’s use this as our starting point as we contemplate your future in 2026, Libra. Life may disrupt your assumptions about what constitutes balance and harmony. You will be invited to consider the possibility that what seems like discord from one perspective is attractive and valuable from another. My advice: Open your mind to other ways of evaluating what’s meaningful and attractive.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): In the Sonoran

Desert of the southwestern United States, Arizona bark scorpions are hard to see at night. Scientists who want to study them can find them only by searching with flashlights that emit ultraviolet light. This causes the scorpions’ exoskeletons to fluoresce and glow a distinct blue-green or turquoise color, making them highly visible. Let’s use this scenario as a metaphor for you. In the coming months, you may reveal your best brilliance under uncommon conditions. Circumstances that seem unusual or challenging will highlight your true beauty and power. What feels extreme may be a good teacher and helper. I urge you to trust that the right people will recognize your unique beauty.

Homework: What’s the most subtly heroic thing you could do in 2026? Newsletter.FreeWillAstrology.com

41 VOLUME 29 ISSUE 51 / DECEMBER 18, 2025 / THE SOURCE WEEKLY

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): According to legend, the genius composer Mozart heard entire symphonies in his imagination before he wrote down any notes. That’s a slight exaggeration. The full truth is that he often worked hard and made revisions. His inspiration was enhanced by effort and craft. However, it’s also true that Mozart wrote at least five masterful works in rapid succession, sometimes with remarkably few corrections on the manuscript. They included his last three symphonies (Nos. 39, 40, and 41). I predict you will have a Mozart-like aptitude in the coming months: the ability to perceive whole patterns before the pieces align. Trust your big visions!

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THE REC ROOM Crossword

By Brendan Emmett Quigley

ACROSS 1. It might fly a pirate flag 5. “Here, My Dear” singer 9. Water stopper 14. ___ vera juice 15. Graphic novel that represented Nazis as cats 16. Thrifty prefix 17. Be in accord (with) 18. Moor, as a boat 20. They take a lifetime to write 22. Class that doesn’t need much grade inflation 23. Without hesitation 29. Like one wearing guyliner 30. Clip-on’s spot 31. St. with the second-longest coastline 32. “Rogue One” actor Petrie 37. Charlie Brown’s sister 39. Small harbor 40. Paper purchases 43. Scream like a banshee 44. River through Tuscany 46. Chai, e.g. 48. Vehicle that frequently rolls over 49. “I think I’m going to throw up” 52. Back in the day 53. Pie made with onions, often 60. “Have a piece!” 61. Group with multiple passports 62. Fated, or a hint to the entries with shaded letters 67. “We’re on the lookout” announcements, for short 68. Bond girl Fullerton 69. Carrier that makes cabin announcements in Hebrew and English 70. “Yeah, why not” 71. Got up 72. “The Ark” channel 73. Went “hawk tuah”

★★

We’re Local!

Questions, comments or P R M suggestions for our local puzzle guru? G O T P 43 Email Pearl Stark at ●●○○ Difficulty Level: M for the week of December G 15, 2025 T ©pearl@bendsource.com Puzzle Pearl Stark mathpuzzlesgames.com/quodoku L A P R M G O OG T P T Difficulty P Level: ●●○○ M R LO A O P RR O L A R A L M A G E A M G E L O M M L O

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Difficulty Level

DOWN 1. Very important 2. Crime story? 3. 1924 Edna Ferber novel 4. Orthodontist’s concern 5. Canyon maker 6. Remote battery 7. Lateef of Jazz 8. Family fortune 9. Millennials 10. Hobby racer 11. Impressed sound 12. Card game with “all wild” and “show ‘em no mercy” variants 13. Rocky peak 19. “Brimful of ___” (1997 Cornershop hit) 21. Order to keep one’s word? 24. “Lupin” star Sy 25. ___ gras 26. One of the black keys 27. “The Office” actress Kemper 28. 1972 hit that begins “What’d you do when you get lonely” 32. When Lady Macduff and her son die in “Macbeth” 33. Saône-et-___ (French department) 34. Fluid provider in a hospital 35. Get the big picture 36. Quiet hours enforcers: Abbr. 38. Perplexity 41. Ratings org. 42. Talk with your hands? 45. Hackneyed version of a classic 47. The po-po 50. Paths 51. Builds character? 54. Prefix with musicology 55. Nation that has the Serie A football league 56. Bridge table comment 57. Get ready for going out in the cold 58. Animal in a “dazzle” 59. Strong point 62. Considerations 63. Minor complaint 64. As well as 65. Mil. group symbolized by a blue, white, and red roundel 66. “Tulsa King” star, for short

VOLUME 29 ISSUE 51 / DECEMBER 18, 2025 / THE SOURCE WEEKLY

“Night Lights”

Pearl’s Puzzle

Puzzle for the week of December 15, 2025

RRO Gin Lrow, PPFill O Mevery GE T A M E Tcolumn, A L and 3x3 box with each of the lett exactly once.

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The highlighted letters read left to right and top to bottom will complete the quote: “_______ mixes ritual with ______y.” “_______ mixes ritual with ______y.” — Mary Karr - Mary Karr

The highlighted letters read left to right and top to bottom w “_______ mixes ritual with ______y.” % $ 1 - 2 ( 6 , * 1 * $ 3 E O Y W L D H R T Mary Karr 0 $ & $ 2 2 5 5 ) / ( ( 6 D R L O T H E Y W

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COLUMN

THE MEDICINE CABINET WITHIN HOLISTIC MEDICINE AND YOUR POWER TO BE WELL By Joshua Phillips, ND

he health of the digestive system is in many ways one of the cornerstones of overall health and vitality. When there is ongoing inflammation, or other chronic issues affecting digestive tract function, it can pave the way for other downstream health concerns over time. It makes sense, as this system is where we break down the food we eat, absorb vital nutrients from that food, and then ultimately get rid of metabolic wastes on the other end. One of the most common digestive system issues that involve the upper GI tract is esophageal reflux disease (GERD), often referred to as “heartburn.” This condition is routinely treated with medications designed to eliminate the acidity of the stomach altogether. Currently on the top 10 list of most prescribed medications, estimated at over 100 million prescriptions annually, is a class of stomach acid blocking drugs called proton pump inhibitors (PPIs). The two most popular drugs, Nexium and Omeprazole, are now available over-the-counter, making it very easy to self-prescribe and address esophageal reflux. So, simply take a daily drug that eliminates stomach acid, and problem solved, right? Like many medications, this approach might manage discomfort short-term but fails to address the underlying causes of reflux and while doing so, compromises a very important part of the body’s overall digestive process. The stomach is meant to be very acidic, as this is necessary for the early stages of food digestion. Mineral absorption from mineral rich foods is particularly compromised by a non-acidic stomach, and long-term use of these medications results in deficiencies of crucial vitamins and minerals like iron, magnesium, calcium and B vitamins. Research on this topic has suggested that long-term use (more than two weeks) of this class of drugs is contributing to poor health, and in some cases serious disease. Studies indicate an increased incidence of bone fractures from long term PPI use, as well as significant disturbances of the healthy and beneficial microbial gut flora, in some cases leading to dangerous C. difficile infections. Stomach acid provides a barrier to potentially harmful microbes, which is compromised by these meds. One of the main arguments for PPI drug use has long been that the use of

these medications may prevent esophageal cancers in those affected with GERD. A large Swedish study, though, suggested that the more consistent patients were with daily and long-term use of their PPI meds, the higher the incidence of esophageal cancers. There is also evidence that long-term use of these drugs may contribute to increased incidences of colon, pancreatic and liver cancers. Studies also describe higher rates of chronic kidney disease (CKD), and several studies link long term PPI use to higher rates of dementia/ Alzheimers in the elderly. The downstream risks of nutrient malabsorption and the metabolic impact is evident in many body systems, to include evidence that even the cardiovascular system is negatively impacted by long-term PPI drug use. As mentioned initially, the health of the digestive system is foundational to health, so it is no surprise that compromising its basic functions would have such dramatic effects. If PPI medications are not the answer to symptoms associated with GERD, what alternatives exist? The universal answer is this: Discover and address the underlying causes. In most cases dietary triggers contribute to acid reflux. Eliminating dietary triggers can be a game changer. The tone of the esophageal sphincter, and other structural issues may also be a factor. Mental/emotional issues and stress can contribute as well. In many cases, particularly in elderly individuals, the problem can paradoxically be already-low stomach acidity levels causing reflux. The solution in these instances is counterintuitively improving stomach acid levels. As you might imagine, it is ideal to have a holistic minded physician guide you through the process of discovering the underlying causes and potential dietary triggers while weaning you off PPI meds if appropriate— abrupt discontinuation of long term PPI use can cause unpleasant rebound heartburn symptoms. A judicious weaning program combined with implementing herbs and nutrients that help to heal inflamed and irritated digestive mucosa is typically the recipe for the successful removal of these drugs from the medicine cabinet. — Joshua Phillips, ND is a naturopathic physician and the director at Hawthorn Healing Arts Center in Bend, Oregon. He can be reached at docnaturecure@gmail. com with questions or comment.

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VOLUME 29 ISSUE 51 / DECEMBER 18, 2025 / THE SOURCE WEEKLY

Heartburn! Risks of Long Term Use of Acid Blocking Drugs

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Navigating Negotiations

Don’t let inspection items scare you!! viewed as safety items and can often get repaired/replaced during negotiations. A client who purchased in SW Bend this summer was able to get the seller to cover over $12,000 to replace the sewer line when a sewer scope inspection revealed a sag and blockage. While it was a large ask and carried some risk, there would also be risk on the side of the seller to say no. Once a situation is discovered, sellers are now liable to disclose that information to future buyers. So rather than risk losing the buyer they already have…many sellers are willing to say yes, or at the very least, compromise. Ultimately, remember that the worst that can happen is a seller says no. If that happens, the buyer is free to decide if they’d rather walk away, negotiate further, or deal with the problem themselves. In my experience, negotiation is always worth the time and effort — for both parties. On the seller’s side, negotiations don’t have to be scary either. I highly recommend that sellers tackle any concerns before listing — most will pay less to have items completed ahead of time than they will in buyer-requested concessions. Plus, attention to detail shows buyers that the home has been well cared for and they will be less likely to feel the need to negotiate at all. Whether buying or selling, find an agent you trust to guide you through the process who also understands the art of negotiation!

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n an uber-competitively paced real estate market negotiations are often extremely limited. But good news for Central Oregon buyers … we are no longer in 2021 conditions! While we may not truly be in a “buyer’s market,” most sellers are actually quite willing to negotiate and you can (and should!) use your agent to do the heavy lifting. One of the most common inspection items that is coming up in Central Oregon this fall is roof life and insurability. Yes, this is a serious issue! You need insurance and if an insurer is saying they won’t cover the current roof…this is prime negotiating material. Recently, one of my listings had a buyer back out for this reason. We knew the roof was original and it might come up during negotiations, but what surprised me was that the buyer and their agent chose not to even ASK if my seller would pay for it before backing out. And the truth? Seller was willing to cover the entire quoted $13k. Not only that, the roofer agreed that they would allow payment out of escrow — this means no cash from anyone, they would be paid when the sale closes. In other words, the roof would be brand new and installed before the buyer’s insurance even kicked in, and the buyer wouldn’t have had to pay anything. Talk about a missed opportunity for that buyer! I also always counsel buyers to ask for any inspection items that are related to electrical or plumbing. These are

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