the Source July 23, 2026

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EDITOR IN CHIEF

Nicole Vulcan–nicole@bendsource.com

MANAGING EDITOR

Nic Moye–editor@bendsource.com

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Peter Madsen–peter@layitoutfoundation.org

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Clayton Franke–clayton@layitoutfoundation.org

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When I reached out to our writers about the “Science of Beauty” issue, many of them asked me what that meant. The phrase can be interpreted in so many ways including methods to reduce wrinkles, weight loss, cold plunge therapy, supplements and more. It could apply to external “beauty” as well as internal health. We have a collection of articles that touch on a variety of topics. Peter Madsen examined the trend of using testosterone in racing. Phoebe Young talked with some local spas about what their customers are seeking. I explored the popularity of blue and red light therapies. And Adriana Marino interviewed a doctor about weight-loss management.

In other news, I spoke with the suddenly famous Bend doctor who recently found himself at the center of the hantavirus cruise. Dr. Stephen Kornfeld was on the road, literally driving, during our interview. He never stops traveling and seeking out elusive birds, making him one of the top two birders in the entire world.

Jared Rasic has been excitedly waiting for a popular downtown restaurant to open a food truck. This week, in addition to his movie review, he’s courageously taken on Chow with a heaping plate full of goodies from the new Yoli food truck. Can’t wait to try it!

—Managing Editor Nic Moye

LIGHTMETER:

PRESENTED BY HARVEST MOON WOODWORKS

Robert Jensen

During a recent sunny hike, Robert Jensen snapped this photo of Three

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Fingered Jack.

With Fires, Every Year We Learn All Over Again

We knew it was coming, but as fire season begins its annual destruction, people are once again left wondering what we can do and if we could have done more. The benefit of hindsight already gives us much to ponder when it comes to what each of us — and our local governments — can do.

In Redmond this week, a fire near a home in the Dry Canyon was made worse by “excessive fuel load” in the yard.

In that same city over the Fourth of July, another home went up in flames from an errant firework. Meanwhile, crews were dispatched to fight the Coyner Fire that started on the west side of town. The blaze spread so rapidly that all available teams had to be there to fight the fire — leaving no one to fight the fires at the Deschutes County Fair and Expo Center that were started by the legal fireworks show the city put on. In Bend, where the only fireworks allowed are the legal ones shot off from Pilot Butte, fire crews know they’ll see fires start, and they’re ready for the job. In Redmond, it took one or two blazes elsewhere to leave the legal show with-

On U.S. Bureau of Land Management lands and other public lands, crews have installed fire detection technology that uses artificial intelligence to spot fires earlier than the human eye can. And as the BLM warned in a recent press release, that same technology could also be used to identify the humans responsible for starting the fires in the first place. Fines for starting fires can be up to $100,000, the BLM warned.

Leaders may beat the drum about fireworks and fuels, and warn about big fines for starting fires, but every year, it seems some people have to learn things

Local governments around the region are trying to do their part to talk about prevention. They’ve shared the message about cleaning up dry fuels in your yard, and have even offered incentives like free debris disposal and grants to convert properties to a FireWise landscape.

Early next month, the Redmond City Council will once again take up the issue of banning fireworks in the city. They may still allow a legal, sanctioned show like the one that happened at the fairgrounds, but could see fit to ban the sale of fireworks, and stop allowing individuals to set them off. The notion is sure to unleash plenty of commentary from both sides; some who still think lighting a shooting flame in the middle of a dry summer is responsible, and others who want one less way to see their city go up in flames.

As this past Fourth of July demonstrated, cities can take very different approaches to extreme fire danger. In Bend, the Butte did light on fire, as it always does, but it was quickly extinguished. In Redmond, property was destroyed and crews from other parts of the region had to be called in to help. These aren’t random occurrences; they’re the result of decisions by leadership who should probably already know better. And yet, every year we launch the same debates.

The discussion over whether to ban fireworks in Redmond is sure to be a lively one that brings up talk of personal freedom and patriotism and so much more. But it’s hardly patriotic to burn your neighbor’s house down — and as fires continue to get bigger and hotter and more deadly in our region, it’s going to cost us all in the way resources are employed to strike them down.

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

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MCKENZIE MEADOWS/SISTERS DEVELOPMENT (JULY 16 ISSUE)

I agree with Bill Willitts and with McKenzie Meadows for urban growth expansion. That was halted with an environmental issue of Trout Creek, which already has only a month or so with water while we live in a drought. The considered UGB east of town into 10-acreRR Zone properties borders Whychus Creek, which is suffering quite low water levels the last several summers.

I live east of Sisters on the creek. I am wondering why a dried-up creek is getting more protection attention than a much larger and farm-dependent waterway. There are very few properties in the 10-acre zoned region with water rights, but downstream farms are dependent on it.

I am not in the proposed UGB east of town, so I don’t have a dog in this fight, although I do border the creek. But I can assure anyone that the water use involving Whychus Creek is a speck compared to what would happen with home development in this territory of land considered for UGB.

McKenzie Meadows borders all three Sisters schools, which means children could walk to school rather than wait for a bus. It’s practical and available to develop here rather than a couple miles east of the school campuses. Anyone remember “no brainer?”

—Bonnie Malone

SEEKING BOARD MEMBERS

The Deschutes Soil and Water Conservation District is in need of people willing to serve as directors on the Board. Meetings are once a month. The DSWCD needs members who will advocate for expansion of services, in a cost-efficient manner, in all program areas with interested private landowners, services that benefit both rural and urban residents and reflect broad interests of all County residents, especially given DSWCD’s

tax base is paid by all county residents. Program areas include soil stewardship, water quality, water conservation and more desirable river flows, weed management, wildlife and fish habitat improvement, wildfire risk reduction, locally grown food and farm-to-market products and development of renewable energy and energy efficient resources. DSWCD has no regulatory authority.

Positions open include an at-large position, and ones restricted to zones around Sisters, Tumalo, east-northeast of Bend (e.g., Alfalfa) and the north part of Deschutes County. Except for the at-large position, a candidate must own or manage 10 acres in Deschutes County within the designated zone and live in that zone (see DSWCD website). If interested, please review the Oregon Department of Agriculture SWCD elections website which also includes contact information. I am only representing myself in this letter.

—Robin Vora

ONEROUS INFRASTRUCTURE REQUIREMENTS

I am one of those owners of land suitable for middle income housing that gave up on development when faced with requirements from the city. I own over an acre and a half of property on the west side with a triplex on one end. The triplex has a sidewalk to nowhere on both ends with big retaining walls. I proposed splitting off an acre and joining with an adjacent lot. The city approved the plan with the caveat that I put in a six-foot-wide sidewalk to be completed before being able to sell it off. The property is so steep that the sidewalk would have necessitated 12-foot-high retaining walls in places that any developer who then bought the land would have to likely tear out. The excavation reps who came on site to give estimates would just scratch their heads about the absurdity of the timing of that requirement. Neither would the city accept a bond to

build the sidewalk at a future date when it made more sense. There is a sidewalk across the street by the way and there are loads of neighborhoods with sidewalks on only one side of the street in the area. Rules are rules and planners have to CTA. In light of these possible rule changes I guess I should try again but it’s like I held my hand out before and got bit. I have PTSD now. Maybe if they had therapy as part of the process.

—Tom Ponte

TIME

Our esteemed Members of Congress have moved to end the twice-yearly clock resetting absurdity. Good for them. Unfortunately, they chose the wrong permanent time (Daylight Saving). That will become clear this winter. But any permanent time is better than clock changing time. Call it what you will - Standard, Daylight Saving, Mickey Mouse or Boaty-McBoat Face (thank you, UK), time is an artificial construct. Keep it simple and everyone will adjust. Schools can change their schedules to match the season. Just leave the clocks alone.

— James Scott

FIRE SAFETY

Imagine pulling into your driveway, anticipating the sanctity of being home. Then imagine a hollow feeling that erupts from within when the home you’d taken for granted is merely a pile of ashes, laid out barren before you. The remnants of everything you’ve accumulated in your life, gone, reduced to waste. It could happen to any of us at any time.

Our region has become a tinder box during these dire episodes of drought and excessive heat. One moment of negligence can erupt into an enormous devastation and loss; mistakes are easy to make, deliverance is another.

Today I offer my sincerest praise and gratitude to the firefighting crew stationed at Hamby Station 304. Their rapid response was beyond measure, their care and efficiency was our salvation. Where would we be without first responders who put their lives at the forefront daily? I can’t imagine a society, a world without any of them. Without designated funding from our property taxes, these services would become more compromised in cases of emergencies. Supporting these services are crucial to the quality of our lives here in Deschutes County.

To all of them, I offer my deepest appreciation to those who show up to save us. How do you thank someone like that? Words fall short and cannot express the depth of my gratitude. How fortunate we are to have heroes like that in our community.

—Oakley Taylor

Letter of the Week:

We couldn’t agree more, Oakley. As Letter of the Week, you can stop by the Source office to pick up a gift card to Palate coffee.

—Managing Editor Nic Moye

NEWS Government Roundup

By Nic Moye

Bend

City Council July 15

Some property owners in the Bend Central District expressed anger and frustration during the July 15 Bend City Council meeting about having to spend time fighting a proposed 10-cent per square foot tax on commercial property to create an Economic Improvement District, which they say many commercial business owners opposed from the beginning. That assessment was defeated after 59% of the commercial property owners opposed it. Bend currently has one Economic Improvement District in downtown Bend.

Redmond City Council July 14

Redmond Chief of Police Devin Lewis reported 298 calls for service from July 3 through July 5 with 11 arrests. There were 27 fireworks-related calls. Officers issued 12 warnings and confiscated one box of fireworks. Police received a total of 42 email complaints related to fireworks. The Redmond Fire Department responded to 11 fires during that time period with three homes lost and more than 25 acres burned. At least seven fires were caused by fireworks with four of them by legal fireworks. During the city sanctioned fireworks show on July 4, a fire sparked at the fairgrounds. There were no firefighters stationed at the fairgrounds during the fireworks show because they were fighting the 20-acre Coyner fire which was threatening homes and causing evacuations.

Chief Lewis said other Central Oregon cities with a complete ban on fireworks had fewer incidents with Bend reporting two fires and Sisters and Sunriver reporting no fires during the 4th holiday. Those areas prohibit the sale or use of fireworks. Redmond allows the sale of fireworks prior to the holiday but people are only allowed to use them on July 4.

Lewis told city councilors, “After three years in a row of this, I think that what’s going to help the police department and me keep the community safe would be, yes, to make a fireworks ban.”

Fire Marshal Tom Mooney said, “We don’t have a (wildfire) season anymore. It seems to be all year round and the fuels are just constantly dry all the time.”

Mayor Ed Fitch said, “There’s a big split in the community about this tradition, this American tradition of having at least legal fireworks on July 4. So, my recommendation would be that we have a public hearing on it sooner than later.”

Councilor Cat Zwicker said, “I like fireworks and celebrations as much as the next person, but we lost three houses and three families are having to recreate their entire worlds over a very volatile season. And I don’t know that that’s a price I’m willing to continue to pay at this point for the community, for some of us to enjoy what we enjoy.”

Some councilors favored skipping a public hearing and moving forward with an ordinance that would fully ban fireworks within the City of Redmond. Mayor Fitch said he’s in favor of drafting an ordinance but wants to hold a public hearing so it’s a structured format for public comment. A public hearing and first vote on an ordinance is expected to be held in early August.

Commissioners Advance Ballot Language for Districting Map Critics call ‘Divisive,’

‘Parochial,’ and ‘Unfair’

The Deschutes County Commissioners voted on how the district map will be framed in November’s general election ballot

By Peter Madsen

The Deschutes County Board of County Commissioners voted to place a divisive districting proposal on November’s general election ballot.

After hearing heated commentary from the public during the July 15 meeting, county commissioners voted 2 to 1, approving edited language for the ballot measure. Commissioner Phil Chang was the sole opponent.

To the satisfaction of word nerds and legal beagles in attendance, commissioners took pains over the meanings of “mode” versus “method,” “elector” and “voter.” With a limit of 175 words, they worked with county legal counsel to craft the measure’s title, the map’s caption and the summary. The deadline is Aug. 14.

By the end of the meeting the ballot question stands to read: “Shall Deschutes County electors elect commissioners by each of the geographic districts instead of just Deschutes County?”

Before the vote, Chang encouraged board members not to proceed with the ballot measure, saying that the District Mapping Advisory Committee’s ultimate map proposal was “problematically constituted, the process was flawed,” owing to its reliance on its count of registered voters instead of total population. Chang noted that the population difference between certain districts is substantial. He also cited a discernible partisan advantage to this map’s configuration.

Chang voiced concern with north Deschutes County districts. District 5 excludes Redmond, grouping Sisters with Terrebonne. He said that doesn’t make sense for many people in Terrebonne, for whom Redmond is a hub of employment, education, commerce and health care — much more so than Sisters.

“I predict this will be defeated at the ballot and that there will be legal challenges,” Chang said. “I would encourage you to spare us that whole drama and cost in the next six months.”

Chang brought up the potential for legal challenges to the districting map and how much that might cost the county hundreds of thousands of dollars.

County Counsel Dave Doyle told the Board of County Commissioners that he anticipates legal pushback, should the districting map pass in November.

“A number of folks have indicated they plan to file legal challenges,” Doyle said. “I’ve heard that here today and I’ve heard that in prior public hearings. I have no reason to doubt them: a number are lawyer-types and judgetypes, people who certainly know how to do litigation and legal challenges.”

Those legal challenges, Doyle continued, may concern whether the wording of the ballot title is “insufficient, not concise or unfair,” as detailed by ORS 250.195. He added that his team endeavored to be as fair as possible in the recommended language. A circuit judge would be the ultimate decider on the matter. ORS 258, Doyle noted, also provides criteria by which additional challenges might be waged.

During the meeting, several folks held signs in their laps that read: “Fight Rigged Districts.”

During the public comment session, James Thrower chided the Board of County Commissioners.

“You’re about to embark on another fiasco with this [districting] plan. It will certainly be appealed and it will result in a huge waste of money,” Thrower said. “Any of you who seek any future office may as well hang a sign on your neck that says, ‘I have poor judgement, I make illegal decisions and I waste taxpayer money.’”

Melanie Kebler, mayor of Bend and a member of the District Mapping Advisory Committee, also voiced her opposition to the ballot. She said using mid-Census data is a bad idea in a county as fast-growing as Deschutes.

“I disagree that this map represents distinct regions of our county,” Kebler said. “What this map does is crack Bend into several districts while also packing Democratic voters in Bend into specific districts.”

She said the map is unfair on several levels, including the potential result of electors only getting to vote for the single commissioner in their respective district. As the Commission now expands to five, presently voters have a say about each who occupies each of the five commission seats.

“What you are doing is mitigating for what folks have changed in governance by inserting yourselves into a process to create a gerrymandered map,” Kebler said. “And I don’t think that is fair to our county.”

Another critic of the map is Amy Sabbadini, who faces off against Lauren Connally for commissioner position 3 in the November election. During her comment, Sabbadini told the commissioners to press pause on the districting map proposal.

“There is so much fearmongering and flaw in the process that happened here,” she said, adding that she’s not inherently opposed to districting. “It’s creating a very divisive moment in our county at a time when we need to come together. Instead of creating a divisive and parochial district map, let’s work collaboratively to solve these problems with a proper charter process so we can have some thoughtful decision-making about how the county runs.”

The general election is Nov. 3.

Deschutes County

Deschutes County Fairgrounds Looks to Balance Wildfire Evacuation Duties as Fair Approaches

The fairgrounds is a wildfire refuge for large pets, but sometimes events take priority

By Clayton Franke

Seven horses and a pair of goats slept in barns at the Deschutes County Fair & Expo Center Sunday night, just a few hours after they were rushed away from the flames of a newly sparked wildfire west of Redmond.

At first, it appeared the animals might soon be forced to find a different place to stay. Setup was beginning for the fairgrounds’ signature event — the Deschutes County Fair — would fill barns with award-winning livestock and 4-H hopefuls while thousands of people would flood the grounds for rides, games music and treats.

The fair is slated to run from July 29 through Aug. 2.

Due to the fire, fair officials granted a few extra days, allowing the refugees to stay until three days before the fair, if needed.

“They’re working very well with us and that’s very encouraging,” said Mary Barron, a volunteer with Pet Evacuation Team, a nonprofit called to help animals during emergencies like wildfires.

A flurry of wildfires across Central Oregon have threatened property and forced people to flee their homes. That’s renewed a perennial tension between the duty of the Deschutes County Fairgrounds as an evacuation center for large animals and the need to fulfill contractual obligations to host facility-wide events that make money to keep it running.

The fairgrounds is “a great place for the animals to go. But we also understand the fairgrounds runs a business, and the fair is a pretty big thing in the county,” Barron said.

Central Oregon’s wildfire season ramped up earlier this month when recent storms delivered lightning strikes that sparked dozens of fires across the region, ranging in size from a few acres to tens of thousands. As of the Source’s press time on Tuesday, 32 properties in Deschutes County were under immediate evacuation orders, according to Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office spokesperson Jason Carr.

The fire that forced animals to the fairgrounds was quickly controlled to fewer than 10 acres on Sunday, and the sheriff’s office removed evacuation orders. Meanwhile, the Akawa Butte Fire north of Sisters remained active, burning at 13,600 as of Tuesday, according to Watch Duty, a nonprofit fire tracking service.

While animal evacuees were relatively few, space was limited, Barron said. The Sisters Rodeo Grounds was being used as a firefighter camp, while the Jefferson County Fairgrounds was

hosting a fair of its own. With fires picking up and Deschutes County’s fair fast approaching, Barron began calling farms, ranches and veterinarians to make a backup plan.

“We were really lucky to be allowed to come in here this time,” Barron said. “You never know what’s going to happen.”

Twice last year animal evacuation needs clashed with the fairgrounds’ busy schedule. In June 2025, Crooked River Ranch evacuees were forced to move their animals to make way for a horse show. Later in the summer, Flat Fire evacuees were turned away with their large animals because of a lack of space. A dog show and horse show were underway, and site construction had begun for a reggae music festival.

“I don’t want that happening ever, ever, ever again,” Deschutes County

Commissioner Patti Adair told The Bulletin a few days later. In a May endorsement interview with the Source’s editorial board, Deschutes County Commissioner candidate Jamie Collins called lack of access at the fairgrounds “unacceptable.”

“That is where these people were supposed to take their animals,” Collins said.

Ultimately, the decision as to whether the fairgrounds has room for animal evacuees falls with fairgrounds director Jeff Curtis. For Curtis, who took over in February, this will be the first summer managing those challenges. He told the Source it’s part of the fairgrounds’ mission to host evacuated animals. The fairgrounds hosts more than 250 events per year, and more likely than not, it will be able to accommodate.

”The fairgrounds is a great place for the animals to go. But we also understand the fairgrounds runs a business, and the fair is a pretty big thing in the county.”

—Mary Barron

“When we can, we will absolutely do so,” he said.

But it’s not always possible — particularly when there is a fairgrounds-wide rental. Those events occur only a few times per summer, Curtis said. But they’ve grown increasingly common since the COVID-19 pandemic, including an overland vehicle expo and several music festivals.

“That’s where it gets complicated,” Curtis said. “There’s legal contracts with renters to say they can use it.”

The fairgrounds relies on event revenue — not tax dollars — to keep running. The fairgrounds expects to generate $4.6 million in events revenue in the coming fiscal year, according to County spokesperson Kim Katchur. That’s allowed the fairgrounds to set aside $80,000 this year toward future construction projects needed to maintain and enhance the 25-year-old facility. Walking paths and water systems at the fairgrounds are “reaching the end of their useful life,” according to County documents.

With the fair coming up, Barron and the Pet Evacuation Team will likely have to look elsewhere should fires force more animal evacuations. And weather forecasts signal more fires could be on the doorstep. The National Weather Service issued a “Red Flag” warning for Central and Eastern Oregon beginning 11 am Wednesday, predicting “abundant” lightning and gusty winds that could spark new fires and fuel existing ones.

—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. If you're interested in syndicating Lay It Out Foundation content or purchasing an article for use, you can do so through the website.

Nanda Giglio-Webb, left, and Vikki Sheerer unload the PET trailer during a deployment.

REDMOND NEWS

Public Bus From Bend to Redmond Municipal Airport in the Works

Transit officials hope to launch service in the next few months

By Clayton Franke

Bend travelers flying out of the Redmond Airport may soon have an alternative to expensive Ubers, high-priced parking spaces or coordinating early morning rides with friends and family.

Cascades East Transit, Central Oregon’s public transit agency, is pushing to bring a new direct bus service from Bend to the Redmond Municipal Airport. While logistical details still need to be ironed out, the agency hopes to begin the service within the next few months.

In part, that’s possible because the agency is no longer dealing with the shortage of bus drivers, said Cascades East Transit Director Bob Townsend. He told the Source the system is in a place where adding the airport line won’t take away from other efforts to improve the local bus system.

“The timing is just right to put a full court press on getting this going,” Townsend said.

The board with Central Oregon Intergovernmental Council, which houses the transit agency, authorized the new service earlier this year, Townsend said.

According to Townsend, the plan is to run buses from Bend’s Hawthorne Station to the Redmond Airport terminal every hour starting from about 4 am to 1 pm five days a week. If the service goes well, it could be expanded to evening hours. Townsend estimated the ride will cost $15 each way.

If the service comes to fruition, it would become the most affordable way to get to the Redmond Airport, other than riding with friends or family. Even that option has led to increased congestion on the curb outside the terminal as the number of people flying out of Redmond continues to grow each year. Passengers have complained that rideshare prices from Uber and Lyft can soar well above $100, while shuttle services are likely to top $50.

CET buses already swing by the Redmond Airport terminal throughout the day on a fixed route. Bend travelers can take a bus from Bend to the Redmond transit center and transfer buses to get to the airport.

But that can be logistically tricky, and buses only run during the daytime.

Townsend stressed that the motivation to install a direct bus to the airport is as much about reducing the number of cars on U.S. Highway 97 as it is convenience for passengers.

“It’s not just about, ‘hey, let’s get people to the airport,’” Townsend told the Source. “It’s a need, obviously, to get people to the airport, but it has secondary benefits of improving safety and reducing vehicle miles traveled, all the normal things that transit does.”

After less than two years leading the local transit agency, Townsend recently resigned from his post, but told the Source he’s staying on in an interim capacity to help finish some projects.

During his tenure, Townsend sought to grow the transit system by adding new fixed routes in Bend. Earlier this year, the transit system brought back fares from the days before the pandemic.

Unlike fixed routes in town, the Redmond Airport service would sustain itself solely with funds from fees paid by people who use it.

About three quarters of the people who fly out of Redmond come from Bend, said Redmond Airport Director Zachary Bass.

Bass told the Source the airport is on board with getting the transit service running, but still needs to work out logistical questions. One concern, Bass said, is how to run large buses through the pickup and drop off area without interrupting vehicle traffic. The logistics are also complicated by construction of an ongoing terminal expansion project.

According to Townsend, the airport bus would be about the size of a school bus with the capacity to carry about 25 passengers with luggage. That bus won’t fit through gates near the terminal area, Townsend said, so it will require some other solution for pickup and drop off.

CANDLE MAKING

SIP, CREATE AND UNWIND

Create a scrumptious, signature candle while sipping a delicious wine at Testimony Wine Bar in Redmond. Artisans from Fae Fire in Prineville will guide participants through the candle-crafting process. 6-8pm. Testimony Wine Bar. 397 NW Sixth St., Redmond. $48 for the class, custom candle and a glass of wine.

GLOW

PREPARED TO BE DAZZLED

The skies above American Legion Park in Redmond will be luminous with the glow of hot-air balloons on Sunday. Before the balloons take flight, enjoy a family and dog-friendly afternoon of delicious food, great beer, handmade goods from regional vendors, live music and all-around fun. When the sun sets, the balloons take flight, lighting up the night sky with a dazzling display. Bring a blanket or lawn chair. 5-10pm at American Legion Park. 850 SW Rimrock Way, Redmond. Free.

GET YOUR DAUBERS READY

Support the Redmond Senior Center and (hopefully) fill a bingo card or two to win real cash prizes at Bingo At Initiative. Hosted by Central Oregon’s “semi-pro” bingo legend, Randy, there’ll be great fun not to mention delicious food and cool beverages available for purchase. 5:30-7:30pm at Initiative Brewing. 424 NW Fifth St., Redmond. Free.

Hawthorne Station, the transfer center for Cascade East Transit, lies in midtown Bend.

Cascades East Transit Facebook

How Central Oregon is

Local estheticians say customers want non-invasive treatments

By Phoebe Young

Estheticians of Central Oregon are constantly finding ways to help residents achieve and maintain the appearances they want. While their services vary greatly, many of their techniques aim to serve a similar purpose; to keep skin looking healthy and youthful. But what is currently trending in the beauty world? When interviewed, two local estheticians gave feedback about what people are looking for, and the answers were similar: people want healthy, youthful skin through the use of non-invasive, holistic approaches. In other words, people are seeking to enhance their looks without taking drastic, potentially harmful measures to achieve it.

Melissa Frieden, owner and Master Esthetician of Downunder Waxing and Sculpt+Skin, notes that many of her clients are seeking a more natural look. “One of the biggest shifts I’m seeing is that people aren’t chasing perfection,” she says, “they’re chasing vitality.” Frieden shared how individual health is moving to the forefront of beauty-based decision making as clients “ask better questions, read ingredient labels, research treatments and look for options that work with the body’s natural processes, rather than simply covering things up.”

The two trending pieces of technology Frieden is currently excited about are NeoGen Plasma Skin Regeneration and T-Shape 2 Body contouring, because they align with what she calls this “healthy-aging movement.”

NeoGen PSR is a non-invasive skin treatment that uses plasma technology to generate collagen and elastin. Among other things, it can improve fine lines, wrinkles, pigmentation, acne scarring and overall skin quality. It is unique in that it works through the top layer of skin rather than removing it, which “protects the skin during healing while still creating significant rejuvenation,” Frieden says. NeoGen PSR can act as a less intrusive alternative to procedures such as fillers, blepharoplasty, and more aggressive CO2 laser treatments, making it a great option for those who want to enhance their skin quality without drastically altering their appearance or taking more invasive routes. “What I love about NeoGen,” Frieden says, “is that it encourages the body to do what it was designed to do; repair and regenerate.”

T-Shape 2 is another non-invasive technology Frieden has noticed gaining traction, which she explains, “combines radiofrequency, ultrasound cavitation, vacuum massage and laser technology to address body contouring, cellulite, skin tightening and lymphatic drainage.” She has noticed its popularity growing alongside the use of GLP-1 medications, because it helps to “bridge the gap” when “the scale changes faster than the skin does.” Maybe the most appealing aspect is the lack of downtime. Frieden says that clients not only can, but often intentionally choose to receive treatments “right before vacations, weddings, reunions, photo shoots or other important occasions,” so they can look their best without any recovery time.

Donna Kern, owner and Master Esthetician of Bella Nuova Day Spa, has also noticed this trend of health and longevity taking the forefront in beauty treatments. “One of the most encouraging trends I’m seeing is a shift away from the idea that anti-aging has to mean harsh or invasive procedures,” Kern says. “More clients are looking for ways to support skin quality, collagen health, hydration, firmness, and radiance while still looking natural and feeling like themselves.”

This shift is especially rewarding for Kern, whose 23 years of medical experience inspired her understanding of skincare as an amalgamation of factors, rather than just what’s on the surface. She feels that “the most meaningful trends are less about chasing one ‘miracle gadget,’ and more about combining professional treatment, strategic technology, and consistent home care in a way that supports the skin long-term.” Bella Nuova specializes in this, and Kern has noticed clients continuously seeking out these holistic approaches.

One of the options Kern has seen clients leaning toward is customized skin-renewal treatments focused on barrier health and collagen support. “These treatments are tailored to the individual and may include exfoliation, hydration, peptide support, resurfacing,

and barrier repair, depending on what the skin actually needs,” Kern says. “When you strengthen the skin barrier, support healthy turnover and reduce inflammation, the skin often looks brighter, smoother, and more resilient over time.”

Another trend Kern has noticed is professional peels and gentle resurfacing. Carefully selected exfoliants or resurfacing methods are used to “encourage cellular turnover and improve surface texture and tone,” Kern says. This is a recommended option for those looking for “visible improvement without pushing the skin beyond what it can comfortably tolerate.”

Microcurrent and non-invasive firming technology has also been popular as a way to achieve a “more refreshed, sculpted look,” by stimulating facial muscles and supporting stimulation. Kern recommends it to those seeking a comfortable option that “supports firmness and tone without aggressive procedures.”

Lastly, Kern has noticed clients taking interest in professional home care as part of a youthful-skin strategy. Using targeted ingredients “such as antioxidants, peptides, hydrators, and barrier-supportive formulas,” clients can reinforce professional treatments and maintain their effects.

More than anything, Kern emphasizes the importance of clients knowing they have choices regarding their skincare. “You do not have to choose between doing nothing and doing something invasive,” she shares. “There is a very effective middle ground… and clients deserve to understand the full range of options available to them.”

Board Certified Plastic Surgeon

2450 NE Mary Rise Pl.

541.316.0627

BorstingMD.com

Natural Results, Expertly Delivered

Where advanced training and a surgeon’s artistry meet personalized patient care

At Borsting MD Plastic Surgery, we believe the goal is not to create a new you, but to refine and highlight the beauty you already possess. Dr. Emily Borsting combines a surgeon’s precision with an artist’s eye to deliver elegant, natural-looking results that help you feel more comfortable and confident in your own skin. From facial rejuvenation and breast augmentation to body contouring, every plan is tailored to your unique goals. We provide a warm, boutique experience where your safety, comfort, and aspirations are our highest priority.

Why Patients Choose Dr. Borsting

Board-Certified Expertise: Dr. Borsting’s ABPS certification ensures the highest national standards for your safety, care, and outcomes.

Surgeon-Led Care: You see Dr. Borsting from the initial consultation through your final recovery, ensuring clear guidance and a personal connection.

Proven, Modern Techniques: A strong academic foundation and extensive research mean your care is based on the most e�fective, up-to-date methods.

Full Spectrum of Options: From surgical procedures like tummy tucks and rhinoplasty to modern in-o�fice treatments like liposuction and blepharoplasties. We o�fer Pro-Nox for a more pleasant experience during in-o�fice procedures.

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on Testosterone

Local doctor and masters athletes open up — as much as they can — about quasisecret “doping” that’s gaining national and local prominence

By Peter Madsen

Scott Seaton, despite occupying high-octane posts that include being a firefighter with Bend Fire & Rescue and a longtime elite masters cyclist, knows what it’s like to live with low testosterone levels.

Even so: nope, no way — Seaton, who’s 66, ain’t takin’ no stinkin’ testosterone replacement therapy.

That, he considers, is performance-enhancing doping. So agrees the World Anti-Doping Agency and the domestic equivalent, the U.S. Anti-Doping Agency. The Oregon Bicycle Racing Association, which governs racing in the state and parts of Washington, has adopted USADA’s criteria whole hog.

OBRA also adopted Seaton’s 2023 proposal that requires athletes who receive TRT — along with any other medication found on WADA’s list of banned substances — to file for and receive a Therapeutic Use Exemption from USADA.

The state’s governing bike racing body isn’t aware of any OBRA racer having submitted one, the Source has learned. OBRA, with 2,500 members and an annual budget of around $250,000, cannot afford the $9,000 fee for a USADA control team to visit a

race. Sponsors aren’t interested in picking up that tab, says OBRA president Chuck Kenlan.

The problem, as Seaton sees it, is that testosterone supplementation has become de rigueur among his rank of masters-level (typically 40 and up) competitive cyclists. Seaton races for Hutch’s Bicycles, a team that explicitly prohibits TRT in its member agreement.

“It’s all anecdotal, but a friend asked someone if he was taking TRT, and the guy got so angry,” Seaton told the Source. “My friend just got reamed by the guy.”

The cure-all for dimming energy?

Testosterone replacement therapy is everywhere in national news headlines. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth wants to make annual testosterone testing mandatory for soldiers over 30, recommending TRT for low-T individuals. Secretary of Health Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is a proud user and proselytizer. There’s the recent Enhanced Games, which is backed by Peter Theil. And let’s not get started on Joe Rogan and his “manosphere” of male influencers that pump the stuff.

“It’s all anecdotal, but a friend asked someone if he was taking TRT, and the guy got so angry,” Seaton told the Source. “My friend just got reamed by the guy.”

— Scott Seaton

Seaton has raced competitively since 1984. That’s the era when some racers would, “skin pop” amphetamine, or inject the drug below the layers of skin, as detailed in Joe Parkins’ Belgium bike-racing memoir, “A Dog in a Hat.”

Seaton won the National Championship cross-country mountain bike race (age 45-49) in 2006 and the National Championship mountain bike marathon race (50-59) in 2011. While Seaton’s evidence of TRT is anecdotal, nearly 10 racers, speaking on background, told the Source that testosterone replacement therapy is widely used among Central Oregon’s male racers — even among some competitive female cyclists.

Throughout the country, about 3% of men 40 and over receive TRT, according to the National Library of Medicine. And an estimated 6 to 12% of men in that age group have low T levels. Many uncounted others find testosterone throughout online providers — some illegal, that allow them to bypass a doctor’s recommendation and subsequent supervision.

For the sake of extrapolation, it’s fair to imagine that in health-minded, sporty Central Oregon (with its myriad clinics, spas, gyms and competitive racing) men 40 and over are at least tracking with national rates of TRT.

Last he checked, in his early 50s, Seaton learned that his T levels are slightly low, at 280 nanograms per deciliter (300-1,000 is the normal range).

“My doctor was like, ‘That’s normal for your age. It’s fine, you’ll just have to live with it,’” Seaton said. He’d already done his homework on what happens to men around 40: testosterone levels drop about 1-2% annually. Life factors such as being overweight, having diabetes, a stressful job and lack of sleep can diminish T counts. Overtraining causes it, too.

aging process is working in opposition to being leaner and meaner, when is enough enough?

To get a lay of the local testosterone landscape, the Source spoke with an internal medicine primary care physician who is also a masters bike racer. She spoke anonymously because she’s not permitted to speak to the media without approval. The doctor agreed that TRT is common among competitive athletes in Central Oregon. She prescribes it, but only for patients with low T levels. If they compete, however, she tells them that they cannot be on T if they want to race cleanly.

“I’ve never knowingly prescribed to anyone racing,” she said. “But I know of a handful of men who are essentially doping, because they’ve told me this.”

“Nobody’s getting a pro contract to race OBRA races,” Kenlan said. “Nobody’s getting a college scholarship or sponsors because of their OBRA results.”

USADA testing at a road race looks like this: The top three finishers are automatically pulled for blood samples; then three racers are randomly selected. Kenlan says racers who’d get ensnarled would likely be those who are using conventional TRT to assuage depression or perhaps alcoholism — general aging and life stuff.

Low testosterone symptoms include low energy, obesity, depression, reduced sex drive and erectile dysfunction, noted the New York Times Magazine in the story, “Testosterone Land.”

Less than aging, Seaton regrets what he calls, “the erosion of age-group rac-

Some men she knows seek a “supra-therapeutic” level of T, which carries them beyond the normal range of the hormone. That can cause polycythemia, or too many blood cells. That thickens the blood. In supra-therapeutic scenarios, risks of heart attacks go up, along with atrial fibrillation, or abnormal heart rhythms. Don’t forget potential prostate cancer and bone fracture. Other health problems include acute kidney injury and clots in the lungs — both potentially fatal.

“It’s not a benign thing,” the doctor said.

“When I watch the Tour de France, as I have every day this month, I absolutely want it to be a fair playing field. We all want that. But I’m not sure that (pro-level testing) at grassroots racing is the place for that.” —Chuck Kenlan

ing and the validity. … They get prescribed testosterone and they become some kind of Franken-master: they’re old, but they have the hormones of a 20-something.”

Yet, here in Bend and across the country, the ethical dichotomy is being diluted by a surging mainstream popularity of testosterone replacement therapy that’s marketed, in so many words, as the cureall for the pains of male aging.

Regain youthful lust. Evaporate brain fog. Get out of bed with a sense of optimism. Lose weight and gain muscle because you want to do stuff.

It’s a tantalizing sales pitch, bandied by numerous male clinics throughout the country and particularly in Bend, that tout the benefits of T like it’s the Fountain of Youth for men.

More muscle mass, synthetically fueled, runs the risk of muscle dysmorphia. When the body’s natural

Still, she recognizes, that even in the post-Lance Armstrong world where everyone knows what doping is, some racers may carry on with T treatments because, the logic might go, who cares at the local amateur bike racing level?

The scale of perspective

Chuck Kenlan, the president of Oregon Bicycle Racing Association, said the control in place operates on an honor program among the participants who take part in the grassroots racing that OBRA sanctions. (Even among transgender athletes.) Still, after implementing Seaton’s Therapy Use Exemption proposal, Kenlan worked out an agreement with USADA to streamline doping enforcement, yet the cost remains prohibitive. He doesn’t share Seaton’s view that this is a crisis.

Even if the costs of paying for USADA doping officials to travel to Oregon bike races wasn’t an issue, Kenlan points out that so many racers (who have asthma and use a steroid, for example, or buy supplements from GNC) don’t monitor their chemical intake the same way as professional athletes, who have the help of coaches and nutritionists.

Nonetheless, those amateur racers would end up positive. USADA would hand down the racer’s results to OBRA, which would be required to enforce that ban. That “doper” status would be a Scarlett Letter for the racers, likely resulting in them getting kicked off a club team and losing standing in the cycling community. The high-level of self-monitoring and pro-level testing would also create barriers to entry, and overall amateur racing would suffer, Kenlan says.

“When I watch the Tour de France, as I have every day this month, I absolutely want it to be a fair playing field,” Kenlan said. “We all want that. But I’m not sure that (pro-level testing) at grassroots racing is the place for that.”

“Toughen up”

Seaton still isn’t satisfied. Yet, in talking about his gripes, he’s good natured, as if he’s discussing those dang gophers that keep uprooting his lawn: What are these people doing, and how do they rationalize it?

“I’ve had some arguments with people in the YouTube comments section about testosterone and bike racing. They say they use it to keep T at normal levels,” Seaton said. “I can’t help myself. I reply that that’s still doping. Then the guy gets angry and says I can’t deny him his right to bike race. As if that’s a right. It’s a touchy subject.”

When Seaton notices television commercials for male clinics promoting TRT, he also gets a little peeved.

“The doctor looks super buff and muscular …Where are we going with this? Is everybody so image conscious? My wife and I shake our heads, like, ‘Can’t people just get old and be OK with it?”

Seaton thinks aging should require grit.

“Toughen up.”

Elite masters bicycle racer Scott Seaton, also a retired firefighter with Bend Fire & Rescue, helped the Oregon Bicycle Racing Association shore up its doping controls, which also test for supplemental testosterone. Costs preclude the nonprofit governing body from testing at races, however.

Scott Seaton

EsthetixMD's Root-Cause Approach to Hair & Hormonal Health

At EsthetixMD, we've spent a decade helping Bend feel its best — and in that time, one truth has become undeniable: true aesthetic transformation doesn't begin at the surface. It begins within.

That's why our approach to hair restoration and hormonal health isn't just about treating what you see in the mirror. It's about addressing the underlying biology that shapes how you look, feel, and move through the world — then supporting those results with the most effective technologies and products available.

When Hormones Are at the Root

Hair thinning and loss are among the most emotionally charged concerns we see in our practice. Clients often arrive having tried volumizing shampoos and over-the-counter supplements for years, feeling quietly defeated. What many don't realize is that hormonal imbalance is one of the most common — and most overlooked — drivers of hair loss in both women and men. Estrogen, progesterone, testosterone, and thyroid hormones all play critical roles in the hair growth cycle. When these shift — through perimenopause, menopause, andropause, chronic stress, or metabolic changes — hair follicles are among the first casualties.

"Often times in medicine we want to help our patients address their symptoms, and we fail to address the root cause first," says Jessie Spanbauer-Bales, FNP-BC. "If you're feeling like your skin and hair are showing signs of aging, it very well could be hormonal imbalance. If your energy and libido feel drained, that is definitely hormone imbalance. I am very excited to be able to offer bioidentical hormone replacement therapy as a way to address the root cause — from energy level to hair growth to skin to libido. Men and women both experience this equally, and I am excited to help my patients."

Our HRT protocols are personalized and medically supervised, designed to restore hormonal balance in a way that supports energy, sleep, mood, libido, and body composition — the foundation upon which every other treatment builds.

Rebuilding Follicles with PRF and PRP

"I have been doing PRF for hair restoration since 2020, and it is one of my favorite treatments, hands down," says Jen Rogers, RN, BSN, DNC.

"Treatment consists of a series of four sessions, every four to six weeks, with maintenance every three to six months depending on the type of hair loss. Combination therapy is best for hair loss — first getting to the root cause, then adding treatments and supplements like Nutrafol, gives you the best outcome possible."

"Since I began treating hair loss in 2012, my approach has evolved from traditional hair transplants to cutting-edge therapies like PRF and HRT," adds Cri Tillia, RN, CANS. "The biggest takeaway from my years in this field is that hair health is deeply personal. Because the root causes vary so widely from person to person, every solution must be highly individualized to honor your unique biology and wellness goals."

Nutrafol: The Supplement Di�ference

Regenerative treatments work best when the body is nutritionally equipped to support growth. That's why we recommend Nutrafol as an essential companion to any hair restoration protocol at EsthetixMD. Formulated to address the root causes of thinning — stress hormones, inflammation, and nutritional deficiencies conventional supplements don't target — Nutrafol offers formulas for women at different hormonal life stages, plus a dedicated men's formula, meeting clients where they are biologically.

HydraFacial Keravive: Scalp Health as Self-Care

Once hormonal balance is addressed, we turn to the most powerful regenerative tool we have: the client's own blood. Platelet-Rich Fibrin (PRF) and Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) therapies harness growth factors naturally present in your bloodstream to stimulate dormant hair follicles, increase circulation to the scalp, and support the regrowth of thicker, healthier strands.

Beautiful hair begins with a healthy scalp — often the missing piece in a hair restoration plan. HydraFacial Keravive is a three-step scalp treatment that cleanses, exfoliates, and hydrates using HydraFacial's signature vortex technology combined with a proprietary blend of growth factors and skin proteins. It removes follicle-clogging buildup, improves circulation, and creates the optimal environment for growth — all while delivering a deeply relaxing experience. Paired with the at-home Keravive spray Your Hair. Your Hormones. Your Plan. At EsthetixMD, no two hair restoration journeys look the same — because no two clients are the same. What we offer is a thoughtful, medically informed framework that begins with understanding your biology, builds with proven regenerative treatments, and sustains results through targeted nutrition and scalp care.

If you're ready to stop guessing and start rebuilding, we'd love to be your partners in that process.

“Healthy cells are spared, because it’s only those damaged cells that absorb the chemical. Then it’s destroyed and that causes new cellular epidermal growth, so it’s rejuvenating in that way.”

—Amy Snow

A non-invasive treatment that enters the skin’s layers to improve it

By Nic Moye

The trend is so popular, you often see it in television shows, commercials and social media feeds. Blue or red light therapy masks are touted as a luxurious way to pamper yourself, unwinding the clock as you lay on a couch scrolling on your phone. Light therapy has a long-documented history. Danish physician Niels Ryberg Finsen began looking at the therapeutic effects of light on skin diseases in the 1890s. He observed that nine days of exposure to red light could minimize smallpox scars. He also discovered that concentrated ultraviolet and blue-violet light could treat a tuberculosis infection of the skin by killing bacteria in the tissue. He won the 1903 Nobel Prize in Medicine for his work.

Over the next several decades, advances were made in using violet-blue light to treat acne. From the 1970s to the ‘90s, photodynamic therapy combined with photosensitizing agents were used to treat cancers, precancerous lesions and skin conditions. Dermatologists began using both blue and red light tools in clinics.

In 2002, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved the first blue light device for treatment of mild to moderate inflammatory acne, which was the first time a non-drug, non-invasive blue light device had been formally recognized by a regulatory body for acne treatment. Throughout the next decade, products were developed for at-home use.

Dermatology Provider, Amy Snow PA-C primarily uses blue light photodynamic therapy.

“The number one reason is to destroy precancerous lesions,” she says. “It’s a light-activated treatment used to clear actinic keratoses and sun damage and some superficial skin cancers.”

The first step is to apply a topical medication or aminolevulinic acid to the damaged skin. It absorbs into the skin for one hour, targeting bad cells. “When the blue light is applied, it reacts to the light and destroys all the irregular cells,” Snow explains. It can be used to treat the face, scalp, hands and arms. A patient spends 16 minutes under the blue light, which may cause a stinging, prickling or burning sensation. Treated areas turn bright red, like a sunburn, which lasts a few days. The patient must avoid the sun for a couple of days. Over the course of the next week, the affected area begins peeling.

“Healthy cells are spared, because it’s only those damaged cells that absorb the chemical. Then it’s destroyed and that causes new cellular epidermal growth, so it’s rejuvenating in that way,” Snow says. It’s a cancer-prevention treatment with a cosmetic upside. Blue light photodynamic therapy restores the epidermis, giving some patients a brighter, smoother look.

Blue light vs red light

Blue light stays near the surface of the skin — about 400-470 nanometers — while red light penetrates deeper — 630-700 nanometers — which promotes collagen production and reduces inflammation. Snow says at-home blue or red light masks can help improve skin texture, tone, brightness and poor appearance, but only if used daily. She says they’re not typically used to treat acne any longer because there are more newly developed laser treatments.

Red light benefits

Like blue light therapy, red light can also be used for early-stage treatment of precancerous, early skin cancers, when used in conjunction with a topical drug. It’s also been used to reduce wrinkles. According to Stanford Medicine, there’s evidence that red light treatment has the ability to generate hair growth by widening blood vessels which enables more blood and nutrients to reach hair follicles. Used consistently over several months, red light has spurred regrowth of thinning hair, but when the red light treatment stops, so does the hair growth. It cannot rejuvenate hair growth in areas where hair follicles are dead.

Chasing youth

When customers come to her seeking a fountain of youth, Snow says, “I always try to redirect the conversation. Our main concern should be the health of our skin, because when our skin is really healthy, it reflects the light and we have glowing skin. If you had two people walking toward you down the hallway and one did all these treatments to try to reverse the lines, and one just treated their skin with optimal medical-grade skin care and good procedures that help with skin health, such as PDT, you’re going to notice that person is better looking and more luminous versus the person that may have reduced wrinkles and some tightening, but their skin might not be as rejuvenated.”

Snow recommends Vitamin C in the morning and prescription-strength Retinol at night. “Retinols are still the gold standard for anti-aging and epidermal turnover. They can reduce skin and precancerous lesions just because epidermal repair is so robust with consistent long-term use.”

Blue light therapy is used to treat precancerous growths but has an added benefit of rejuvenating skin cells.

Photos by Nic Moye

The effect of light therapy on human skin has been studied and practiced since the 1890s.

Meet Dr. Dalton Webb!

He sees birds, reptiles, amphibians, and small mammals. Accepting new patients!

Exceptional care. Tailored to your pet.

541-678-5440 bendvets.com

SOURCE PICKS

WEDNESDAY 7/22

ELEVATOR OPERATOR

CATCHY HOOKS AND UPLIFTING HARMONIES

Check out the indie alt-pop band from Olympia, Washington as they showcase their positive-vibe tunes that’ll get hearts pumping and feet a-tapping. The Commonwealth Pub. 30 SW Century Dr., Bend. 7:30-9:30pm. Free.

THURSDAY 7/23

THE ROUNDABOUTS IMPROV

GET READY TO LAUGH

Prepare for a night of belly laughs, delicious food and $4 beers as The Roundabouts, Central Oregon’s favorite short-form comedy group, plays the Barrel Room at UPP Liquids. 550 SW Industrial Way, Bend. Doors open at 6pm, show starts at 7:30pm. $20.

JORDAN CERMINARA

LAUGHS GUARANTEED

Jordan Cerminara, stand-up comic, collage artist, and co-creator of The Art Critique Comedy Show brings his carefully crafted bits and full-blown stories to Bend. 8-9:30pm. Craft Kitchen and Brewery. 62988 NE Layton Ave., Bend. $17.59. FRIDAY 7/24

YACHT ROCK NIGHT

GET READY TO SET SAIL

Don your captain’s hat, best linen or yacht-club attire and head to Portello Lounge for a night of laid-back vibes and tasty cocktails as Pina Colada takes the stage from 7-9pm. Reservations available, walk-ins welcome. Portello Lounge. 2754 NW Crossing Dr., Bend. Free.

FRIDAY 7/24

JACKPINE JUKEBOX

BRING THE DOGS AND KIDS

With a blend of cowpunk, Americana, folk and rockabilly, toes will be tapping as Jackpine Jukebox performs at Bend Cider Company in Tumalo. Award-winning ciders, beer, wine, nonalcoholic beverages and light appetizers available for purchase. Outside food welcome. 6-8pm at Bend Cider Company. 64649 Wharton Ave., Bend. Free.

SATURDAY 7/25

FAMILY-FRIENDLY KARAOKE NIGHT

GOOD DOGS WELCOME, TOO!

Bring the kids out for a fun night of singing and laughs as DJ Jackie J and A Fine Note Karaoke Too host a dog and family-friendly karaoke night. Food and beverages available for purchase. 6-9pm at Bridge 99 Brewery. 63093 Layton Ave., Bend. Free.

SUNDAY 7/26

MUTUAL AID WORKSHOP

HERBAL CARE FOR ALL

Craft herbal salves for personal use, and some extra ones for other community members, at a Mutual Aid Workshop. Class fees support access to herbal care for the community. 4-6pm at The Peoples Apothecary. 1841 NE Division St., Bend. $40.

MONDAY 7/27

80S TRIVIA

DIG THAT NEON OUT OF THE CLOSET

Nostalgic for the good, old days? Rock a 1980s ensemble while competing to get the most answers right about 80s music, movies and pop culture. Signups begin at 6pm. Runs to 8pm. Bevel Craft Brewing. 911 SE Armour St., Bend. Free.

TUESDAY 7/28

BLUEGRASS & BREWS

FEATURING VERN JOHNSON AND FRIENDS

Enjoy the sounds of traditional bluegrass while sipping a craft beer, flavored malt beverage or nonalcoholic options in the Deschutes Brewery beer garden. 5-7pm. Deschutes Brewery Tasting Room & Beer Garden. 901 SW Simpson Ave., Bend. Free.

Roundabouts

Adobe Stock

Jordan Ceraminara

Elevator Operator

Pina Colada

S SOUND Lindsey Stirling’s Best Gift is Storytelling

The former “America’s Got Talent” star is headlining at Hayden Homes Amphitheater

By L. Kent Wolgamott

When Lindsey Stirling sits down to write an album, she’s not only thinking about what she wants to play on her violin and how she’ll arrange the rest of the music around it, she keeps in mind how the song could be performed and how it will fit into her highly acclaimed show.

“I’ve always written music not so much because I love the writing process, but because I love performing,” she said. “That’s the whole reason I started getting into the style of music I do. I was like, ‘Oh my gosh, I want to do energetic, big performances.’ So it really is a thought when I’m writing.”

That was exactly the case when she started writing the 12 songs that became “Duality,” the album she released in June 2024. It spins together classically rooted, Celtic-influenced rock and electronic pop songs, a broad stylistic and emotional mix that feels perfectly suited to be transferred, in part, to the stage.

“That’s absolutely true, it’s always kind of fun when there’s a lot of diversity in the music, to figure out how to tell that story on stage and how to make it flow,” Stirling said. “But I feel like that’s always been what I’ve done. I’ve always had quite diverse music that I’ve kind of moved between.”

“And I have a little bit of a luxury being that I’m a violinist, and so the thing that people see as the through line is violin,” she said. “So it allows me a little bit wider of a space to play in than a lot of artists who are singers…I feel like I’m lucky in that way.”

Growing up in Arizona, Stirling convinced her parents to let her learn violin at age 5 and she exclusively played classical music until her late teens, when she joined a couple bands and wrote her first rock song. By her mid-20s, Stirling was ready to more fully break away from classical and create her own kind of music.

“I’d always been told exactly what to play and how to play it,” she said. “The classical violinist, you’re just kind of regurgitating what has been played by hundreds of people for hundreds of years. I just got so burnt out. I was, like, ‘Gosh, what would I want to play? What would I want to say?’ And I started to write. And that’s when I really fell in love with the violin, I feel, like, all over again.”

2010 and led to a record-smashing YouTube channel that now has more than 1 billion views and landed her a record deal.

“That’s when I just started to really experiment,” she said. “I kind of found a sound I liked. So my first album really wasn’t very theme-based. It was more, like, ‘Here’s a bunch of sounds that I think sound cool together.”

she said. “I’m really proud of this most recent album because I feel like people are listening to my heart when they hear this music. It’s really where I was in the last two years while I was writing it.”

Where Stirling was at is reflected in the album’s title, “Duality,” which she says is “about realizing we are so conflicted inside.” That internal conflict between the brave and confident parts of herself and self doubt, a feeling of failure and being terrified plays out in “Survival,” the last song she wrote for the album.

“If we want to get real personal, here’s how it actually came about,” she said. “My album was pretty much done, and then I found out that my boyfriend of about three years, he’d been cheating on me, had another girlfriend, full on had another life. It was absolutely mind blowing and really ripped my heart out... .

“Once I had this experience of it was, like, ‘I gotta put it into a song.’ So I had time to write one more,” Stirling elaborated. “And I had a choice to make — I can write about how I feel right now, I felt broken, I felt like I didn’t know if I’d ever love again. But my heart and brain knew better. I knew I’m gonna heal like my heart has healed before. And so I wrote the song that I knew was true, not the song that I felt at that moment.”

As hands-on as any artist can be, Stirling works on every aspect of her live show, from concept and flow to costumes, set design, aerial choreography and the setlist that brings it all together.

“The show is my baby, for sure,” she said. “I feel like that’s one of the things I’m best at. I don’t think my best gift is writing the music. I don’t think my best gift is even being a violinist. I think my best gift is actually being able to tell a story, and being able to do it on stage in a long form and put on a show. I think that’s the thing I’m really good at — making a show.”

Stirling’s mix of hip-hop, pop and classical styles and her ability to dance while playing violin got her to the quarterfinal round of “America’s Got Talent” in

That self-titled 2012 release has been followed by six more albums that, unlike her debut, have themes, some personal, and in the case of 2022’s “Snow Waltz,” a holiday orientation. “Duality” is her sixth and in Stirling’s view, best album.

“I feel like I’ve only gotten better and better as a writer at, like, capturing emotion through sound,”

Lindsey Stirling Sat, Aug. 1 7pm

Hayden Homes Amphitheater 344 SW Shevlin Hixon Dr, Bend bendconcerts.com/events/event/lindsey-stirling-2026 $62.70+

Starting out as a classical violinist, Lindsey Stirling has branched out to hip-hop, pop and heartbreak.

Heather Koepp

CALENDAR

22 Wednesday

The Astro Lounge Karaoke with Christina Christina Karafun catalog offers thousands of songs to sing to. Great sound system and brand new wireless mics. Drink specials during the event. 9pm-1am. Free.

The Capitol Karaoke Drink specials! Air guitars! People should definitely check this out for themselves. 8pm-1am. Free.

The Commonwealth Pub Elevator Operator Check out the positive-vibe indie/altpop band from Olympia creating high-frequency originals that blend catchy synth hooks, modern guitar tones and rich vocal harmonies. On a mission to help raise the collective vibe, their danceready, feel-good sound moves both hearts and feet, inviting audiences into a shared celebration of life. 7:30-9:30pm. Free.

Craft Kitchen and Brewery Comedy Open Mic Night Open mic comedy on Bend’s NE side. Come down, eat some BBQ, drink some drinks and be prepared to laugh. 7:30-9pm. Free.

Crosscut Warming Hut No 5 Bill Powers Relax with a pint and enjoy great local music in the garden from 6-8pm. 6-8pm. Free.

Frankie’s – formerly Sisters Depot Jimmy & Dee Fretwell Jimmy Fretwell is an alt-country Americana songwriter whose music feels instantly lived-in. Rooted in folk, country and American roots traditions, his songs balance timeless songwriting with a fresh, contemporary edge. Jimmy Fretwell performs as a solo artist, duo or full band, with flexible formats. 6-8pm. $10.

Hayden Homes Amphitheater Trevor Noah 7:30pm.

Hosmer Bar Trivia Night Brainy banter and cold drinks! Whether one is a seasoned quiz champ or just in it for the laughs, gather the crew and test everyone’s knowledge! 7-9pm. Free.

JC’s Bar & Grill TRIVIA + WING Wednesday Trivia with our infamous “physical challenge” kicks off at 7pm. $0.75 wing special runs all day. Cheap whiskey and fun drink specials. Come early to grab some grub and a seat! 7pm. Free.

M&J Tavern Musicians Open Mic All Musicians welcome to the downtown living room! Sign-ups start at 6pm. Set up and ready to go by 6:30pm. You bring instrument, your band and/or your friends. Goes until last call or last musician, which ever happens first. 21 and over. 6:30pm. Free.

Northside Bar & Grill Mellow Wednesday Open Mic Night Hosted by Derek Michael Marc! 5:30-8pm.

Portello Lounge Music Bingo Hosted by the always entertaining Rachel Fishman, who keeps the crowd singing and laughing all night! It’s the perfect bonus to a night out enjoying great food, drinks and good company at Portello! 6:308:30pm. Free.

Prost! - Bend Wednesday Trivia Fun at Prost! Bend 7pm UKB Trivia in Bend is an ongoing event on Wednesdays. Useless Knowledge Bowl is a live trivia & more, no AI here. People can team up with friends for some casual fun, there’s no fee to play, Authentic food favorites, biers and more. Feed the brain and the belly! 7-9pm. Free.

River’s Place Shannon AmesShannon Ames, originally from Bend, but currently living, recording and playing concerts in France, hosts a solo-acoustic performance of his Euro-Americana Folk-Rock Fusion. Similar to the likes of Jack Johnson, Ray Lamontagne, David Gray and Ryan Adams 6-8pm. Free.

LIVE MUSIC & NIGHTLIFE

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

Silver Moon Brewing Aslin, Aiden Moye & Frecks Comprised of four twenty-something members from Portland, Frecks includes Jayden, who 's been writing music since her early teen years and draws inspiration from all aspects of her life, aiming to tug on heartstrings with dreamy guitar riffs and haunting melodies Aidan Moye is a singer-songwriter from Sisters, whose music blends heartfelt storytelling with memorable melodies. Moye writes songs inspired by real-life experiences, the people around him, and the natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest. Aslin is a songwriter and performer born and raised on Sauvie Island, who makes intimate, lyric-driven indie music. She grew up playing shows around the state, recently returning home to Portland after completing her degree in music business in Tennessee. Her latest EP, Inflight, details her journey of leaving home, chasing her dream of playing music across America, before finally returning home—balancing folk-inspired songwriting with atmospheric production. 7-10pm. $12.24.

Silver Moon Brewing Jerry Garcia Band Night Join us for another JGB Night at Silver Moon Brewery! Dance the night away to the music of Jerry Garcia with Bend jam-band StealHead & The Soul Sistahs, plus special guests GBots & The Journeymen on “Jerry Duty.” 7-9:30pm. 10.

Volcanic Theatre Pub Matte Blvck - House of Serpents Tour Volcanic Theatre Pub & 1988 Entertainment Presents: Matte Blvck - House of Serpents Tour. Supported by Snakes of Russia and So Much Blood. Genre - Darkwave/Industrial. Doors @ 8PM - Show Starts @ 9PM. Presale - $25 Door - $35 8pm. $25.

23 Thursday

Bevel Craft Brewing Live Music at Bevel Catch talented local artists on the patio, grab a bite from our four on-site food carts, and enjoy award-winning craft beer, wine, cider, and more. Bring friends, relax, and make it a weekly tradition. 6-8pm. Free.

Bunk+Brew Karaoke Thursdays All voices are welcome. Food carts available all evening! Located in the Historic Lucas House Living Room for winter. 7-10pm. Free.

The Cellar Live Irish Trad Music with The Ballybogs! Live music featuring Bend’s Irish Trad band, The Ballybogs! Every Thursday at The Cellar. Seats fill up, so get there early! 6-8pm. Free.

The Commonwealth Pub Jazz Jam Hosted By Blue Soul Jazz Come enjoy a jazz jam hosted by Blue Soul Jazz and enjoy world-class jazz music with amazing musicians. 7-9pm.

Drake Park Munch & Music Summit Health & PacificSource Munch & Music free concerts in Drake Park presented by The Source Weekly and Hayden Homes! Music starts on the Stilson Builders stage each Thursday at 5:30pm to 9pm. Our 2026 series dates: July 2, July 9, July 16, July 23, July 30, and August 6 5-9pm. Free.

Eurosports Sisters Food Cart Garden Free trivia Free trivia every Thursday night at Eurosports sign up is at 5:30pm. Trivia starts at 5:45pm. 5:45-6:30pm. Free.

Hayden Homes Amphitheater Wynonna Judd & Melissa Etheridge: Raised On Radio Tour With the release of her 1992 self-titled solo debut, Wynonna emerged as a singular force in American music. Beyond the five Grammy Awards, the multi-platinum albums and sold-out tours, the country/soul vocalist built on the Appalachian traditionalism that defined The Judds to create a world where Top 5 dance/club hits were as possible as being inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame. Having practically grown up as America’s favorite musical daughter, Wynonna matured into a woman who embraced how life is filled with peaks and valleys, great thrills, and heavy disappointment. 6:30pm. $69$617.

Hola! - Downtown AROMA Thursdays

Indulge in a full Latin experience. Savor authentic Latin cuisine, sip on delicious handcrafted margaritas, enjoy a complimentary Latin dance lesson and dance to the sounds of DJ SOLO spinning the best Latin beats. Every fourth Thursday of the month at Hola! 7:30-11pm. Free.

Hosmer Bar Bingo Night Your week just found its highlight—bingo! Drinks, good company and a little friendly competition. 7-9pm. Free.

Initiative Brewing - The Hub Karaoke at Initiative in Redmond! They flip the switch—free, all-ages karaoke where kids, regulars, and first-timers get their moment. Belt it out or soak in the chaos—this is a weekly excuse to show up and let loose. Bubba, aka DJ Bubba Yum, runs the show, spinning tracks, hyping the crowd, and nudging everyone toward the mic. 5:307:30pm. Free.

Lava Lanes Trivia Thursday Think On at the 300 Genuine Useless Knowledge Bowl is back on Thursday nights with Lava Lane’s unique spin on trivia! Nothing ordinary about it! Team up with friends for some casual fun. Win gift cards prizes! Fun, food, brews and more. 6pm. Free.

The Lot Live Music w/ Kimberly June “KJ” is an indie-folk songwriter who blends conscious lyrics with catchy melodies and a dash of wit and humor; She toured Nationwide with Nahko & Medicine for the People, has had songs featured on Major Network TV shows, opened for G. Love, Donovan Frankenreiter, Kimie, Satsang & more. 6-8pm. Free.

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

River’s Place Doc Ryan Band Americana and Roots music 6-8pm. Free.

Silver Moon Brewing Fireside Collective & Wild Hare Inspired by the burgeoning art scene, close knit community, and natural beauty of Asheville, North Carolina, newgrass turned eclectic jam band Fireside Collective has been spent a decade working towards this very pinnacle. Original band members Joe Cicero (guitar), Jesse Iaquinto (mandolin), Tommy Maher (resonator guitar) and Carson White (bass) began playing together in 2014 when Iaquinto gathered the group of bluegrass enthusiasts to back up some of his original songwriting.7-10pm. $22.94.

The Barrel Room at Upp Liquids The Roundabouts Improv - Comedy at UPP The Roundabouts, Central Oregon’s favorite shortform comedy group, will be rolling laughs back into the Barrel Room at UPP Liquids. Doors open at 6pm. Check out the great food and $4 beers at the full bar. Show starts at 7:30. 7-9pm. $20.

The Suttle Lodge & Boathouse Big Lawn Series The Suttle Lodge is a perfect stop for touring bands and musicians, allowing us to showcase some incredible artists from near and far. Catch a variety of tunes on our Big Lawn every Monday and Thursday from 6-8pm. Free for all and for all ages. 6-8pm. Free.

The Winery at Manzanita- Bend Vino & Vibes Enjoy an evening of wine and Local community grooves every Thursday. Local singers and song writers welcome. 5-7pm. Free.

Touchmark at Pilot Butte Wild West Open House Enjoy live music from Dust Devils, delicious cowboy-inspired fare and plenty of laughs as team members bring the Wild West to life with playful rodeo competitions. Cheer on the action during games like Horse Barrel Racing! 2-4pm. Free, but please RSVP by July 20.

Velvet Lounge Open Mic! Warm up those vocal cords because this is an open mic night! Grab a drink, cozy up, sit back and enjoy a local singer sing or get up on stage to sing. Fourth Thursday of every month, 7-9pm. Free.

Worthy Brewing - Main Pub and Brewery Comedy Mics Hear fresh jokes from established comedians, cheer on first timers, and drink tasty brews. For comics, this is a practice space and an opportunity to get booked for paid time in future shows. 6:30-8:45pm. Free.

Wynonna Judd and Melissa Etheridge are making a stop at Hayden Homes Amphitheater on Thursday, July 23.

Ticketmaster

24 Friday

The Astro Lounge Live local sounds with assorted DJs. Live local sounds from different artists every Friday and Saturday. 10pm-2am. Weekend cover charge.

Bend Cider Co. Jackpine Jukebox Come out and listen to Jackpine Jukebox as they perform cowpunk, Americana, folk & rockabilly tunes on the backyard garden stage. Enjoy a summer evening of upbeat music while sipping on award-winning ciders, beer, wine & nonalcoholic beverages. Light appetizers available, outside food welcome. Kid and dog-friendly. Free. 6-8pm. Free.

Boneyard Pub FREE LIVE MUSIC: Dry Canyon Stampede Boneyard Pub's beer gargen, every Friday during summer. 7/24, Dry Canyon stampede, 6-8PM. Let It Be Known! 6-8pm. Free.

The Commonwealth Pub SHINE Acoustic rock group based in Bend that features harmony vocals and a variety of instruments, and covers of crowd favorites and deep cuts from the 70s, 80s and beyond. 7:30-9:30pm. Free.

Craft Kitchen and Brewery Comedy @ Craft: Jordan Cerminara Stand-up comic, collage artist, and co-creator of The Art Critique Comedy Show {comedians analyze & auction thrift store art}. From one-liners to carefully crafted bits and full-blown stories, Ceraminara brings a high-energy style to the stage with clever wordplay, a gamut of goofy voices and the pipes of a karaoke legend. His debut comedy album, Cuttin It Up, hit #1 on the Amazon and Apple iTunes comedy charts. 8-9:30pm. $17.59.

Eurosports Sisters Food Cart Garden Toothpick Shaker Free live music at Eurosports every Friday night from 5-7pm. Bring a chair, as sometimes they run out. 5-7pm. Free.

Frankie’s – formerly Sisters Depot Friday Nights with Tony Lompa If the weather’s nice, Lompa plays in the courtyard. If not, he plays upstairs at Frankie’s. No cover. Just order food, shareables or drinks and enjoy the evening. 6-8pm.

Hardtails Bar & Grill Karaoke at Hardtails Come out for a night of karaoke with your host DJ GABY! What’s your go-to karaoke tune? Come to Hardtails for a fun Friday or Saturday night and sing your heart out! 8pm-Midnight. Free. Hayden Homes Amphitheater Jordan Davis Born in Shreveport, Louisiana, in 1988, country singer Jordan Davis has Southern music roots that run deep—not only is his brother also a country singer, but his uncle, Stan Davis, wrote multiple hits for Billboard-topping country singer Tracy Lawrence. 7:30pm. $67.

M&J Tavern The Desert Howlers Central Oregon High Desert fuse of classic roadhouse blues & raw rock-n-roll swagger. 9pm. Free.

Pangaea Guild Hall Pangaea After Dark A night of seduction, spectacle, and unapologetic expression featuring burlesque, illusion magic, boylesque, tarot, and a dance floor that doesn’t quit. Two chances to experience it: 7:30pm show (doors at 6:30) 9:30pm late show Come early, linger late, sip themed cocktails and get a tarot reading. 21+ only. 6pm-midnight. $30.

Pangaea Guild Hall Pangaea After Dark - Ren Faire-lesque A night of seduction, spectacle, and unapologetic expression featuring burlesque, illusion magic, boylesque, tarot and a dance floor that doesn’t quit. 6:30pm-midnight. $33.65.

Portello Lounge Yacht Rock NIght w/ Pina Colada @ Portello Lounge Set sail for the ultimate Yacht Rock party with Pina Colada! Throw on your captain’s hat, linen or best yacht club attire and join us for a night of smooth tunes, summer cocktails, and laid back lounge vibes. Don’t miss the party! Reservations and walk-ins welcome! 7-9pm. Free for customers.

Silver Moon Brewing Gravewitch, Crown of Thorns, Within The Pyre, Cryptic Divination A night full of independent Oregon Heavy Metal. 7-10:30pm. $17.59.

Silver Moon Brewing The Dirty Grass Players With a nod to the past and a wink to the future from behind their sunglasses, Baltimore’s The Dirty Grass Players have been pushing the leading edge of bluegrass music since 2015. As convincing on a 10-minute jam as they are on a 2-minute classic, they find an intersection between progress and tradition that in one set could inspire Flatt & Scruggs to reunite and then break up all over again. 7-10pm. $17.59.

Volcanic Theatre Pub Outdoor Courtyard Futurebirds Check out the altcountry tunes and more! 6pm. $32.43-$121.12.

25 Saturday

The Astro Lounge Live local sounds with assorted DJs. Every Friday and Saturday. 10pm2am. Weekend cover charge.

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

Central Oregon’s best comics! 7-9pm. Free.

The Commonwealth Pub Super Greens Super Greens is a funk/rock group based in the San Francisco Bay Area. Their sound is an eclectic mix of funk, soul, blues and rock inspired by artists such as The Meters, Led Zeppelin, The Red Hot Chili Peppers, The Revivalists, and Goose. 8-10pm. Free.

Craft Kitchen and Brewery Comedy at Craft Kitchen Follow @BitsNSkits for deals and future events! Join Bits N Skits Productions for another night of laughter and delicious food! Enjoy some of Craft’s tasty, made from scratch BBQ paired with a variety of brews and non-alcoholic options as well! “Our brisket is smoked fresh daily, no reheats. When it’s out, it’s out! Ingredient focused, we let you sauce the Q!” We hope to see you there! 8-9:30pm. $5-$20.

Frankie’s – formerly Sisters Depot Jazz Folks Jazz Folks is a classic jazz quartet based in Central Oregon. Known for performing traditional/contemporary jazz (like Miles Davis and Thelonious Monk), the band regularly rotates through local venues in cities like Bend, Sisters and Redmond. 6-8pm. $5.

Hardtails Bar & Grill Guitar Gods Revue Check out the highly anticipated classic rock tribute show spearheaded by local Bend resident and internationally recognized guitarist Rod DeGeorge. The act brings the iconic riffs of artists like Jimi Hendrix, Jimmy Page, Eric Clapton and Van Halen to life. 7:30-10pm. $22.94.

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

Hardtails Bar & Grill Guitar Gods Get ready for a night of legendary riffs, iconic solos and pure rock energy as Guitar Gods takes the stage! Paying tribute to the greatest guitar heroes of all time, Guitar Gods delivers an electrifying performance featuring the music of rock’s most celebrated artists. 8-10pm. $10.

M&J Tavern Charlee Prayers Trio July just got hotter and the shows just got cooler! Come chill to the vibes that get you grooving. 9pm. Free. Tips encouraged.

Maragas Winery Leo Moon - “Easy Folk” Experience the solo incarnation of actor, singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist, Brian Adrian Koch. California born and Oregon raised, Brian has been active in the Portland theater, film & music scene since arriving in 2000. 1-3:30pm. Free.

McMenamins Father Luke’s Room

Almost /The Gibbons Free night of live music with local cover band Almost opening for The Gibbons. Hailing from Portland, the Gibbons are an all-original, stripped down, blues influenced rock n’ roll band you wont want to miss! 7-10pm. Free.

Portello Lounge Tony Smiley “The Loop NInja” - Live @ Portello Lounge! Always bringing his high-energy, amazing looping mastery, killer musicianship and awesome mashups of crowd favorites. Reservations encouraged, walk-ins welcome! Eat, drink and enjoy great vibes. 7-9pm. Free for customers.

River’s Place Saturday Jazz Sessions Experience the jazz and funk, infectious grooves, soulful melodies and a contagious energy of Monkey Mode. 6-8pm. Free.

Silver Moon Brewing The Happy’s & Guests The Happys are a high-energy alternative rock band from the San Francisco Bay Area, blending alternative rock, punk and indie into raw, emotional music. Known for their electrifying performances, The Happys bring passion and connection to every stage they play. 7-10pm. $17.59.

Volcanic Theatre Pub Parties of Progress - Pink Party 2.0 Volcanic Theatre Pub &1988 Entertainment Presents: Parties of Progress - Pink Party 2.0 featuring Lunallday, Syndy, & Dalllea. Genre - Dance/Electronic. This show is 21+. All proceeds donated to Planned Parenthood. 8pm. $20.59 adv.

Worthy Brewing - Main Pub and Brewery Coyote Rider at Worthy Brewing Kat Hilst, Kim Kelley and Tim Coffey perform original folk-Americana songs crafted for timeless storytelling with roots-driven sound and powerful harmonies. 7-9pm. Free.

26 Sunday

Ballers & Brews Heller Highwater Trio Listen to the acoustic covers of Heller Highwater Trio. Two pickleball courts, food trucks, kid play area, pet friendly, outdoor balcony with big screen and many taps to choose from. 4-6pm.

Bend Cider Co. Guitar Duo Concert Bend Cider welcomes guitarists Matthew Gwinup & David Elan to the backyard garden stage for an evening of folk, fingerstyle, jazz & classical music. Enjoy award-winning ciders, beer, wine & nonalcoholic beverages. Light tapas available, outside food welcome. Tickets/$20, online or at the door. 7-9pm. $20.

The Commonwealth Pub Shineola Singalong Shineola has one main aim: to get the audience singing at the top of their lungs! From popular rock to timeless choruses, and from anthem classics to generations old folk songs from the commonwealth, come and experience the magic of chorus therapy. 4-6pm. Free.

Deschutes Brewery Tasting Room & Beer Garden Sunday Sessions: Long Gone Wilder Lawrence, Brian, Kyle, Jason, and Keith playing blues and rock favorites as a duo, trio, or full band around Central Oregon. 4-6pm. Free.

Dogwood At The Pine Shed Okay Karaoke Sing your favorite songs with friends and enjoy professional sound and lighting. Hosted by the dynamic Tammy Larsen, it’s the perfect night out for music lovers and party people alike. Noon11pm. Free.

GoodLife Brewing Live Music w/ Kimberly June "KJ” is an indie-folk songwriter who blends conscious lyrics with catchy melodies and a dash of wit and humor. She's toured nationwide with Nahko & Medicine for the People, has had songs featured on TV shows, opened for G. Love, Donovan Frankenreiter, Kimie, Satsang & more. 4-6pm. Free.

GoodLife Brewing Live Music in the GoodLife Beer Garden Free Live Music in GoodLife’s Beergarden every Sunday 4-6 and Tuesday 6-8. Full kitchen, full bar, food trucks, playground, kids menu and GOOD VIBES! 4-6pm. Free.

Grace and Hammer Guitars and Harmonies Check out the Grace and Hammer Pizzeria free summer concert series. The show begins at 2pm on our 1,000 square foot deck. 2-4pm. Free.

Hanai Center Sufi Circle & Mystical Music: An Evening of Spiritual Reflection Join us for an evening of live Sufi music, devotional songs, guided reflection and contemplative practice. All are welcome, no experience necessary. 5-7pm. Sliding scale: $22–$30.

Hayden Homes Amphitheater Goo Goo Dolls - Summer 2026 6:30pm.

Initiative Brewing - The Hub Trivia Sunday with UKB Trivia at Initiative Brewing/The Hub in Redmond Not too early, not too late! Team up to win prizes or play for the fun of it. No fee to play! This is no ordinary trivia quiz, it’s Useless Knowledge Bowl! Enjoy fantastic food and brews. Bring good vibes and a pen if possible. 4-6pm. Free.

River’s Place KC Flynn Heartfelt storytelling with nostalgic singalongs. His sets move from Willie Nelson and Billy Joel to Brandi Carlile and Ed Sheeran, creating a warm and engaging evening of live acoustic music. It’s comfort food for the ears. 6-8pm. Free.

Volcanic Theatre Pub Blakkamoore w/ Yungg Trip, Jubba White, and Simmer Down Sound Volcanic Theatre & 1988 Entertainment presents Blakkamoore w/ Yungg Trip, Jubba White and Simmer Down Sound July 26. Doors open at 7pm, show starts at 8pm. All ages. $26.77 adv.

Cheba Hut Chronic Comics Live Comedy Free live outdoor show featuring

Rod DeGeorge’s “Guitar Gods Revue” comes to Hardtails Bar & Grill in Sisters on Saturday, July 25.

Rick Sweitzer

FRIDAY, JULY 24

BALLOON LAUNCHES AT SUNRISE AT JEWELL ELEMENTARY BEND NIGHT GLOW AT COCC ATHLETIC FIELD

SATURDAY, JULY 25

BALLOON LAUNCHES AT SUNRISE AT JEWELL ELEMENTARY

REDMOND BREWFEST & NIGHT GLOW AT AMERICAN LEGION PARK

SUNDAY, JULY 26

BALLOON LAUNCHES AT SUNRISE AT JEWELL ELEMENTARY

PRESENTED BY GET TICKETS NOW FOR THE NIGHT GLOW!

Since 2015, we’ve had a front-row seat to this beautiful community as a local, family-owned brokerage. New neighborhoods. New faces. New ways to search for a home.

Through it all, thousands of families have trusted us to help them buy and sell with confidence. That hasn't changed, and it won't.

When you’re looking for your next home, choose a local REMAX agent. Together, the sky is the limit!

YOUR GUIDE TO

JULY 24–26

Central Oregon’s Favorite Hot Air Balloon Festival

Experience the magic of flight during three days of family fun! Enjoy free sunrise balloon launches all weekend long, then don’t miss Friday’s Night Glow at COCC, featuring live entertainment, the Balloon Blast Kids Race, food trucks, a marketplace, and glowing hot air balloons at sunset. The celebration continues Saturday evening in Redmond with the Redmond Brewfest & Night Glow. Whether you’re an early riser or a night owl, there’s something for everyone.

BEND NIGHT GLOW ADMISSION

Adults: �15

Kids (3–12): �10 (includes Balloon Blast Kids Race registration)

Ages 2 & Under: Free

ABOUT THE LAUNCH

R.E. JEWELL ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

FRIDAY, JULY 24 & SATURDAY, JULY 25 AT SUNRISE

Get up early and watch the magic happen! Balloons will launch each day throughout the weekend starting just as the sun starts to rise. Don’t miss out on the chance to spot these giant balloons float through the Central Oregon sky. It’s free and fun for the whole family!

Ballooning is an exciting but unpredictable activity that is depends on ideal weather conditions. Launch times will vary! Please keep an eye out on social media pages as we approach the event for the most up-to-date info on balloon launches.

FRIDAY, JULY 24

Sunrise – Free Balloon Launch • R.E. Jewell Elementary

5:00–10:00 PM – Bend Night Glow • COCC (Ticketed)

SATURDAY, JULY 25

Sunrise – Free Balloon Launch • R.E. Jewell Elementary

5:00–10:00 PM – Redmond Brewfest & Night Glow • American Legion Park (Free Admission)

SUNDAY, JULY 26

Sunrise – Free Balloon Launch • R.E. Jewell Elementary

BEND NIGHT GLOW SCHEDULE

5:00 PM – Gates Open & Marketplace

5:30 PM – FlippenOut Extreme Trampoline Show

6:00 PM – Balloon Blast Kids Race

6:30 PM – FlippenOut Extreme Trampoline Show

7:00 PM – Live Music: Tri-Cities Steel Band Association

8:30 PM – Balloons Roll Out

Sunset – Balloons Light Up

JUSTIN WILKINSON – RE/MAX

Justin Wilkinson is a 2nd generation pilot from Palm Desert, California. He has been flying hot air balloons since the age of 12. He enjoys traveling to hot air balloon events around the world with his wife and 3 amazing children.

STEPHANIE HUGHES – WILD GOOSE

Stephanie Hughes, from Spokane, WA, started flying balloons when she was 13 years old and she became a private hot air balloon pilot in 2005. She built her balloon, named Chairlift One, which received an airworthiness certificate from the FAA in 2022 as an experimental, amateur-built lighter-than-air aircraft. The FAA also certified Stephanie as the aircraft’s repairman. When she is not flying her hot air balloon, Stephanie enjoys skiing, hiking, camping, golfing, and boating in the Pacific Northwest.

BOB RAPER – MIDLIFE CRISIS

Robert Raper received his commercial pilot’s certificate in 1996 and bought his first balloon in 1995, while learning to fly. Currently he has five balloons and manages his business, High Plains Drifter Hot Air Balloons, LLC (based in Montana). Raper currently lives in North Bend, OR (on the West Coast of Oregon) and usually attends 7-10 events annually, including: Reno, Nevada and Albuquerque, New Mexico.

DARREN KLING – CAVU

Darren Kling has nearly 30 years of experience flying balloons around the country as well as internationally and is the owner/operator of Big Sky Balloon Company based here in Central Oregon. He offers scenic balloon flights over the spectacular landscape of the high desert and also manages a corporate balloon program for RE/MAX International throughout the Pacific Northwest. Darren has been the Balloon Director at Balloons Over Bend for the past 15 years and enjoys helping to bring his balloon friends into town for this great event. He’s logged nearly 3000 hrs of flight time and maintains a perfect safety record. For more information visit www.bigskyballoonco.com

PAT IRWIN – BATTLE BORN

Bob has been involved in hot air ballooning since 1981 and earned his pilot’s license in 1996. A retired 911 systems designer and career firefighter from Nevada, he has spent more than 25 years flying throughout the western United States. He enjoys the challenge of balloon competitions, exploring new places, and sharing the joy of ballooning with communities wherever he flies.

Hosted by the Redmond Chamber of Commerce

Experience one of Central Oregon’s most exciting and vibrant summer traditions! The Redmond Brewfest & Night Glow returns on Saturday, July 26, 2025, at American Legion Park, bringing together great beer, local flavor, and unforgettable entertainment.

Sample craft brews from your favorite local breweries, grab a bite from a variety of delicious food trucks, browse handmade goods from regional

AMERICAN LEGION PARK • JULY 25 • 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM

vendors, and enjoy live music throughout the day. Event is free entry.

As the sun sets, the magic begins—don’t miss the spectacular Hot Air Balloon Glow that lights up the night sky and caps off the evening with a breathtaking display.

Bring your friends, family, and lawn chairs—it’s going to be a night to remember in the heart of Redmond!

27 Monday

Bend Brewing Company Live Music w/ Kimberly June at Bend Brewing! Check out the indie-folk songwriter who blends conscious lyrics with catchy melodies and a dash of wit and humor. 6-8pm. Free.

Bevel Craft Brewing 80s Trivia This 80’s trivia night covers music, movies and totally rad pop-culture moments. Teams of six max, win Bevel gift cards! Themed attire encouraged! 6-8pm. Free.

JC’s Bar & Grill Karaoke + all day Happy Hour + FREE pool Karaoke kicks off at 8pm! All day Happy Hour pricing to help fuel that liquid courage. Free pool for those who just want to spectate. Show up early, get your name on the list and enjoy a cheap drink or two! 8pm. Free.

M&J Tavern Vinyl Night Monday Night just got better! SupaFly will be your Dj. Bring your own vinyl and sign up to add it to the Playlist or pick from hers. 9pm to midnight. Free.

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

The Suttle Lodge & Boathouse Big Lawn Series The Suttle Lodge is a perfect stop for touring bands and musicians from near and far. Catch a variety of tunes on the Big Lawn every Monday and Thursday from 6-8pm. Free. All ages.

28 Tuesday

The Astro Lounge Tuesdays Trivia and Karaoke The longest running trivia show in Central Oregon. Matt and Mark bring the buzz from 7:30-9pm. This is a bring-your-own-food event. We have a small fryer menu but supporting other restaurants is encouraged. Karaoke with Christina at 9pm till close. Free.

Beach Hut Deli Tip of the Tongue Trivia This is the event for those who want to test their knowledge and try for a chance to win some great prizes! 6-8pm. Free.

The Capitol Karaoke Drink specials! Air guitars! Come check out the fun. 8pm-1am. Free.

The Cellar Open Mic Hosted by Mari of Mari & The Dream! This is an intimate night of sharing music in a welcoming environment with a supportive community. 6-8pm. Free.

The Commons Cafe & Taproom Open Mic StoryTellers open-mic nights are full of music, laughs and community, hosted by Mason James. 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. Sign-ups start at 5pm in the cafe. Performances begin at 6pm. Free.

The Commonwealth Pub CyDefectsTuesday Night Jazz Formed in 2017 as a casual musical gathering, CyDefects has evolved into a serious jazz fusion act, bringing a dynamic blend of funk-oriented grooves and rock energy to stages across Central Oregon. This five-piece ensemble delivers a fresh take on the genre, balancing high-energy improvisation with intricate compositions. 7-9pm.

The Domino Room The Deltaz The brother duo blends Americana, blues-rock and raw sibling harmonies into a sound steeped in the heart of American roots music. Born and raised in the hills outside Los Angeles, the two spent their early years steeped in the sounds of America’s past. 7:30-10:30pm. $24.28.

Elements Public House Trivia (&Taco) Tuesdays Quiz fans of Redmond: bring the crew this week for UKB live trivia & more! Delicious menu favorites, brews, cocktails, plus Taco Tuesday menu! Players will compete for gift card prizes or play just for fun. Bring good vibes and a pen. 6:30pm. Free.

GoodLife Brewing Live Music in the GoodLife Beer Garden Free live music every Sunday 4-6pm and Tuesday 6-8pm. Full kitchen, full bar, food trucks, playground, kids menu, GOOD VIBES! 6-8pm. Free.

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

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

Mountain Burger Trivia Tuesdays Trivia Tuesday at Mountain Burger! Free to play! Prizes & fun every Tuesday! 7:30-9pm. Free.

the VTP pub. Every Tuesday, 7pm. Free.

29 Wednesday

The Astro Lounge Karaoke with Christina Karaoke with Christina Karafun, whose catalog offers thousands of songs to sing. Great sound system and brand new wireless mics. Drink specials during the event. 9pm-1am. Free.

The Capitol Karaoke Drink specials! Air guitars! People should definitely check this out for themselves. 8pm-1am. Free.

The Commonwealth Pub The Living Room An intimate living room music session brought to the stage with Mason James, Austin Scott Brown, Samantha Hart and Landon Akins. 7:30-9:30pm.

Craft Kitchen and Brewery Comedy Open Mic Night Open mic comedy on Bend’s NE side. Come down, eat some BBQ, drink some drinks, and be prepared to laugh. 7:30-9pm. Free.

Crosscut Warming Hut No 5 If and When Relax with a pint and enjoy great local music in the garden from 6-8pm. 6-8pm. Free.

Deschutes County Fair & Expo Center

Sara Evans The Deschutes County Fair & Rodeo is proud to welcome multi-platinum country artist Sara Evans as part of the Kendall Toyota of Bend Free Summer Concert Series. 8-10pm. $16.

Frankie’s – formerly Sisters Depot Handpicked Series by Tom Nechville & Linda Leavitt An intimate music series featuring handpicked performers. No cover, but a $10 suggested donation will be collected. Proceeds support CoreSisters.org or the Latin Community Association. 6-8pm.

Hosmer Bar Trivia Night Brainy banter and cold drinks! Whether one is a seasoned quiz champ or just in it for the laughs, gather the crew and test everyone’s knowledge! 7-9pm. Free.

M&J Tavern Musicians Open Mic All Musicians welcome to the downtown living room! Sign-ups start at 6pm. Set up and ready to go by 6:30pm. You bring instrument, your band and/or your friends. Goes until last call or last musician, which ever happens first. 21 and over. 6:30pm. Free.

Northside Bar & Grill Mellow Wednesday Open Mic Night Hosted by Derek Michael Marc! 5:30-8pm. 0.00.

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

Prost! - Bend Wednesday Trivia Fun at Prost! Bend 7pm UKB Trivia in Bend is an ongoing event on Wednesdays. Useless Knowledge Bowl is a live trivia & more, no AI here. People can team up with friends for some casual fun, there’s no fee to play, Authentic food favorites, biers and more. Feed the brain and the belly! 7-9pm. Free.

Silver Moon Brewing Hannah Juanita & Alicia Viani Hannah Juanita is a staple live performer and highly respected vocalist in the traditional country scene in Music City, known for her classic, old-school sound. Self-proclaimed ramblin’ gal, Hannah Juanita, has toured heavily since 2021, headlining and supporting acts such as Kaitlin Butts, Braxton Keith and Hayes Carll. 7-10pm. $14.92.

Sisters Art Works Molly Tuttle in Sisters The award-winning singer, songwriter and virtuosic guitarist is on a U.S. summer tour! Her innovative blend of bluegrass, Americana, pop and rock has made her one of the most dynamic artists in modern music. 7-9pm. $20-$39.

Volcanic Theatre Pub Outdoor Courtyard The Brothers Comatose Outside in the Volcanic Courtyard. Genre is Americana and bluegrass. Doors open at 6pm. Show starts at 7pm. Presale: $30. At the door, $40. 6pm.

MUSIC

Bluegrass & Blues Every Tuesday through the end of July, live bluegrass in the beer garden. Enjoy craft beer on tap, flavored malt beverages and nonalcoholic beers and good music. Tuesdays, 5-7pm. Deschutes Brewery Tasting Room & Beer Garden, 901 SW Simpson Ave., Bend. Contact: 541-385–8606. Free.

Coyote Rider at Brasada Ranch House

Kat Hilst, Kim Kelley and Tim Coffey perform original folk-Americana songs crafted for timeless storytelling with roots-driven sound and powerful harmonies. July 26, 10am-Noon. Brasada Ranch House, 16986 SW Brasada Ranch Rd., Powell Butte. Free.

Volcanic Theatre Pub Karaoke Karaoke in

Hannah Juanita, a highly respected vocalist in the traditional country scene in Nashville, Tennessee, will be joined by Alicia Viani for a show on Wednesday, July 29 at Silver Moon Brewing.

Starla Dawn

The Erins Perform Enjoy the lush vocals and sister-like harmonies of the Central Oregon duo of Erin Cole-Baker and Erin Zurflu. Their harmony-rich sound quickly became a staple in the local venue and festivals. July 24, 3-4pm. Central Library, 61956 SE Santorini Street, Bend. Contact: 541-312-1032. lizg@deschuteslibrary. org. Free.

DANCE

Adult Ballet Class Learn or rediscover the art of ballet on Tuesday nights at 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: 541-382-4055. dance@abcbend.com. Price varies. Partner & Line Dance Lessons at The Coyote Join us Wednesdays at The Coyote in downtown Bend! Partner dance lessons 6–7 p.m. with Seth and McKenna, line dance lessons 7–8 p.m. with Alex. No partner or experience needed. Come solo and connect. Spacious dance floor, food, drinks, mocktails, pool tables, TVs and a welcoming atmosphere. The Coyote, 910 NW Harriman St., Bend. Contact: mindfulmotionmentor@gmail.com. Free.

Tango in Bend Learn and dance Argentine Tango. No experience necessary. First class is free! 6:30pm, Intermediate Class. 7:15pm, Beginners Class. 8:30pm, Practice for all. Wednesdays. Sons of Norway Hall, 549 NW Harmon Blvd., Bend. Contact: 818-207-1363. info@tangoinbend.com. $10 class & practice, $5 practice only.

ARTS + CRAFTS

07/29- (Wednesday) Adventure is Calling Paint Party @ SCP Hotel in Redmond This is a pre-paid event. Book a spot at www.imaginaryrebelpaintparties.com.Raffle and prizes. July 29, 6-8pm. Provisions Market at SCP Redmond, 521 SW Sixth St., Redmond. Contact: 949-677-3510. imaginaryrebelartstudio@ gmail.com. $45.

All Levels Wheel Throwing Each class is catered to the student’s needs. The basic pottery process will be covered, starting with clay prep to glazing a finished piece. Students will practice throwing techniques for various shapes and sizes, along with several decorating techniques. Sundays, 10am-1pm. Through July 26. Camp Clay Bend, 147 NE Olney Ave, Bend. Contact: jess@campclay.studio. $350.

Art Play Toddlers and preschoolers dive into process-based art through sensory stations, open-ended exploration, and hands-on creative play. 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.

Candle Making Class Join Testimony Wine Bar and Fae Fire from Prineville and craft an artisan candle. $48 includes the class, a glass of wine and an atmosphere full of creativity. Space is limited. July 23, 6-8pm. Testimony Wine Bar, 307 NW Sixth St., Redmond.

Creative Circle Craving a creative community? Join this gathering for practicing artists of any medium and any stage. July 27, 9:30-11am. Bend Tea and Art Lounge, 1024 NW Bond St, Suite 101, Bend. Contact: 5416686708. info@ bendteal.com. Free.

Date Night Stained Glass – Get Creative Together! Create a stained glass suncatcher or honeycomb design together in this beginner-friendly date-night class. Assemble, foil and solder precut glass while learning the copper foil method. July 29, 6-8pm. DIY Cave, 444 SE Ninth St. Suite 150, Bend. Contact: 5413882283. classes@diycave.com. $99.

Dream Catchers Explore color, texture, and personal expression while learning the mindful art of assembling dream catchers, adding embellishments, feathers, and charms to a pre-made doily framework. Ages 8+. July 29, 5:30-7pm. FREAK’N ART, 1265 NW Wall st., Bend. Contact: 541-508-7438. hellofreaknart@gmail.com. $70.

Free Teen Open Art Hours Teens ages 1318 are welcome to join every Tuesday & Thursday between 3pm-7pm for Free Open Art Hours where they will have access to art supplies, musical instruments, a sewing station and plenty of space for creative projects with the support of creative mentors. Registration required. Tuesdays-Thursdays, 3-7pm. The Open Arts Center, 999 NE 2nd St, Bend, OR 97701, Bend. Contact: 9787714635. claire@theopenartscenter.org. Free.

Fused Glass 101: Slumping - Optical Illusion Dish Create a colorful fused-glass plate using stringers arranged into a playful optical-illusion design. Learn cutting, shaping, and kiln-fusing techniques in this beginner-friendly workshop. Your finished piece will be fired in our kiln and ready for pickup once complete. July 29, 6-8pm. DIY Cave, 444 SE Ninth St. Suite 150, Bend. Contact: 5413882283. classes@diycave.com. $149.

Garment Sewing 101 with Fashion Workshop Join Fashion Workshop for three days of fashion construction. Fashion Workshop will facilitate your selection of a commercial garment pattern, determine the correct size and fabric, layout and sewing. Basic customization of your pattern and garment fit accommodated if there is time. Bring a sewing machine or use ours! July 29, 4-7pm; July 30, 4-7pm; July 31, 4-7pm. The Open Arts Center, 999 NE 2nd St, Bend, OR 97701, Bend. Contact: 9712416225. maija@theopenartscenter.org. $129.

Hat Burning Workshop Join Wendy from Freckles Creative Club to burn and embellish your own vegan suede hat. July 24, 5:30-8pm. Bend Tea and Art Lounge, 1024 NW Bond St, Suite 101, Bend. Contact: 5416686708. info@ bendteal.com. $110.

Intro to Aluminum TIG Welding Learn the basics of aluminum TIG welding, including how it differs from steel and stainless. Practice machine setup, metal prep, and welding techniques. All materials and tools included. July 27, 6-8pm. DIY Cave, 444 SE Ninth St. Suite 150, Bend. Contact: 5413882283. classes@diycave.com. $139.

Intro to Jewelry Soldering - Silver Stacked Rings This fun and creative class introduces the basics of soldering and the art of creating beautiful sterling silver rings. Use a torch for soldering and learn how to size, shape, and texture rings. Take home new skills and three beautifully crafted rings! July 28, 6-8:30pm and Aug. 3, 6-8:30pm. DIY Cave, 444 SE Ninth St. Suite 150, Bend. Contact: 5413882283. classes@ diycave.com. $129 + material costs.

Intro to Lapidary - Learn to Make a Cabochon Learn the complete process of transforming stone into a smooth, finished cabochon. Plan a design, trim it on the saw and then use the cabbing machine to grind, sand and polish the piece to a glossy finish. July 23, 4-6pm. DIY Cave, 444 SE Ninth St. Suite 150, Bend. Contact: 5413882283. classes@diycave.com. $129.

Intro to Pottery: Sip, Create & Connect at Faith Hope & Charity Vineyards A beginner-friendly handbuilding pottery workshop with Krista Brenner of La Luce Studio. Create handmade ceramic pieces, including mini charcuterie plates, wine bottle bud vases and clay wine charms. Includes one drink, all materials, glazing and firing. July 26, 2-4pm. Faith, Hope & Charity Vineyards, 70450 NW Lower Valley Dr., Terrebonne. Contact: 415-308-4538. krista@ lalucestudio.com. $90.

Kids: Slime Time Join Ms Sarah of Lets Paint. Perfect for kids 6 thru 10. Make slime and paint an alien. July 29, 9:45-11am. Bend Tea and Art Lounge, 1024 NW Bond St, Suite 101, Bend. Contact: 5416686708. info@bendteal.com. $35.

Knot n Sip - macrame workshop This beginner-friendly workshop is a fun, handson way to learn the basics of macrame while creating a beautiful, functional, piece to take home. Emily of Sunny Pines Handmade Goods will guide the process one knot at a time. July 25, 10-11:30am. Tumalo Lavender, 19825 Connarn Road, Bend. Contact: tamar@tumalolavender. com. $55.

Laminated Cutting Boards - 2 Day Workshop Make a laminated cutting board in this two-session class. Learn safe use of the table saw, chop saw, belt sander, and glue-up techniques as you cut, assemble, shape, and finish your board. A great beginner project that builds essential woodworking skills. July 27, 6-9pm and July 28, 6-9pm. DIY Cave, 444 SE Ninth St. Suite 150, Bend. Contact: 5413882283. classes@diycave.com. $259.

Leather Earrings Class Join Kailey and make two pairs of leather earrings at the Tea + Art Lounge. Tell your friends and make it the perfect girls night out. July 23, 6-8pm. Bend Tea and Art Lounge, 1024 NW Bond St, Suite 101, Bend. Contact: 5416686708. info@bendteal.com. $65. Let’s Paint - Tumalo Lavender! Tumalo Lavender Company Join us at the Tumalo Lavender Company for a fun paint night! This is a creative class open to all experience levels. July 23, 6-8pm. Tumalo Lavender, 19825 Connarn Road, Bend. Contact: 5414807491. sarahanneswoffer@gmail.com. $55.

No Sew Fabric Art - Kinusaiga In this beginner-friendly class, you’ll learn the traditional no-sew technique of tucking fabric into foam to create a stunning mountain landscape! July 27, 5:30-8pm. Bend Tea and Art Lounge, 1024 NW Bond St, Suite 101, Bend. Contact: 5416686708. info@bendteal.com. $55.

Pack Basket Workshop Participants will spend the day making their own Adirondack-style pack Basket! They will learn a plaited weave style to build functional art that can be used for years to come. July 25, 9am-4pm. Bend, RSVP for address, Bend. Contact: info@nighthawknaturalistschool.com. $200.

Paint and Sip at Bevel Craft Brewing Looking for a laidback night out? Come join a friendly local artist for some painting and sipping fun! All necessary supplies and a guided tutorial will be provided. July 28, 6:30-8:30pm. Bevel Craft Brewing, 911 SE Armour St., Bend. Contact: 8058018328. chalkedcreative@gmail.com. $48.

Paper Weaving Workshop Join us for a paper weaving workshop with Artist in Residence, Jessica Elena Aquino. Participants use colorful and patterned paper to weave unique designs by mixing and matching paper materials to create designs and collages. July 25, 10am-Noon. Pine Meadow Ranch Center for Arts & Agriculture, 68467 Three Creek Rd., Sisters. Contact: 5419040700. moriah@ roundhousefoundation.org. $45.

Craft a vegan sueded hat at a Hat Burning Workshop on Friday, July 24 at Bend Tea and Art Lounge.

Bend TEAL

CALENDAR EVENTS

Plein Air Paint n Sip Join Sarah Swoffer of Let’s Paint for an evening of painting in the lavender fields. This beginner-friendly plein air workshop guides you step by step through creating your own acrylic canvas — no experience needed. Farm-fresh lavender lemonade and other beverages available for purchase to sip while you paint. July 23, 6-8pm. Tumalo Lavender, 19825 Connarn Road, Bend. Contact: tamar@ tumalolavender.com. $55.

Pottery Art and Crafts Sale Art and Crafts by local artists. Pottery, printmaking, painting, woodworking, jewelry and more! Fridays-Sundays, 11am-4pm. Through Aug. 8. Smiley Design, 443 NW DELAWARE AVE, Bend. Contact: 541382-8406. Babsomatic56@gmail.com. Free.

SAA 4th Friday Artwalk in Sisters, OR, All-Day 10am-7pm Visit the Art Galleries of Sisters for great time, beautiful art, good company, demonstrations, restaurants and sponsoring food venues during and following the walk. Fourth Friday of every month, 10am-7pm. Through Nov. 27. Downtown Sisters, Hood Avenue., Sisters. Contact: 541-719-8581. events@ sistersartsassociation.org. Free.

Survey of Printmaking - Teen Art

Sawmill Demonstration Full steam ahead! See the 1904 Lazinka Sawmill in action and how lumber was processed on-the-go at the turn of the century. July 24, Noon-3pm. High Desert Museum, 59800 S. Highway 97, Bend. Contact: 541-382-4754. info@highdesertmuseum.org. Free with museum admission.

Studio Tours at Pine Meadow Ranch Pine Meadow Ranch Center for Arts and Agriculture invites community members to engage with the current Artists in Residence. Guests will be guided on a tour of the studios, where resident artists are experimenting, conducting research, and developing new work. July 28, 5-6:30pm. Pine Meadow Ranch Center for Arts & Agriculture, 68467 Three Creek Rd., Sisters. Contact: 5419040700. moriah@roundhousefoundation. org. Free.

THEATER

Camp Participants ages 13–17 will explore monoprints, collagraphs and linocuts, and experiment with texture, color and composition to create bold, original prints. Perfect for beginners or aspiring printmakers. All materials included. July 28-30, 1-3pm. FREAK’N ART, 1265 NW Wall st., Bend. Contact: 541-508-7438. hellofreak-

Turn Wine Bottles into Drinking GlassTurn your empty bottles into seriously cool drinking glasses in this hands-on glassworking class. Learn to safely cut glass bottles using an easy-to-build jig and then fire polish the rims using our custom torch setup to create smooth, finished drinking glasses. July 24, 6-8pm. DIY Cave, 444 SE Ninth St. Suite 150, Bend. Contact: 5413882283. classes@diycave.com. $129.

Wood Turning 102 - Introduction to Turn a bowl blank into a finished wooden on lathe class. Learn mounting, rounding, shaping, hollowing, and finishing techniques. Perfect for beginners building foundational turning skills. July 29, 6-8pm. DIY Cave, 444 SE Ninth St. Suite 150, Bend. Contact: 5413882283. classes@diycave.com. $129.

PRESENTATIONS

Celebrate the traditions that have shaped summers in Crook County with Crook County Summers, a special exhibit at the Belknap Exhibit Center at the Bowman Museum. Explore the history of the Crooked River Roundup, Horse Races, and Fair through photographs, artifacts, and stories that showcase these beloved community events. Tuesdays-Fridays, 10am-5pm, and Saturdays, 11am-4pm. Through Aug. 27. A. R. Bowman Museum, 246 N Main St, Prineville. Contact: 541-447-3715. sean. briscoe@crookcountyor.gov. Free. In-Depth Nighttime Visit Tickets are only available online. The event begins with an educational presentation follow with a guided constellation tour. July 25, 9-11pm; July 26, 9-11pm; July 28, 9-11pm; and July 29, 9-11pm. Sunriver Nature Center & Observatory, 57245 River Rd.,

Palestine Resistance in Europe: A Marichelle Gurska shares her experience working with the Global Sumud Flotilla, analyzing the Global Ceasefire Movement and growing restrictions on freedom of expression in Europe. By connecting domestic issues with global ones, she will provide tools for you to take tangible action. Q+A follows, light refreshment provided. July 26, 3:30-4:30pm. Central Library, 61956 SE Santorini Street, Bend. Free and open

Too Darn Hot! A Musical Theater Revue Ponderosa Players is back for its third-annual musical theater revue, Too Darn Hot! From toe-tapping showstoppers to heart-tugging ballads, this revue weaves together iconic numbers from beloved musicals past and present, brought to life by a stellar cast of local students ages 11-18. July 24, 7-8:30pm and July 25, 7-8:30pm. Tower Theatre, 835 NW Wall St., Bend. Contact: 541-410-1487. info@ponderosaplayers. com. Free.

Venus in Fur Thomas, a beleaguered playwright/director, is desperate to find an actress to play Vanda, the female lead in his adaptation of the classic sadomasochistic tale Venus in Fur. Into his empty audition room walks a vulgar and equally desperate actress—oddly enough, named Vanda. As the two work through the script, they blur the line between play and reality, entering into an increasingly serious game of submission and domination that only one of them can win. A mysterious, funny, erotic drama. July 23, 7-8:30pm; July 24, 7-8:30pm; and July 25, 2-3:30 and 7-8:30pm. Open Space Event Studios, 220 NE Lafayette Ave, Bend. $28.29.

WORDS

Dive into Poetry Capture summer in a poem. Space is limited and registration is required. July 23, 6-7pm. Central Library, 61956 SE Santorini Street, Bend. Contact: 541-312-1032. lizg@ deschuteslibrary.org. Free.

The Whisper, by Chelsea Iversen Chelsea Iversen, author of The Witches at the End of the World and The Peculiar Garden of Harriet Hunt, launces her new book, The Whisper. July 28, 6:30-7:30pm. Roundabout Books, 900 NW Mount Washington Dr., #110, Bend. Contact: 541-306-6564. events@roundaboutbookshop. com. $5.

ETC.

Bend Nightglow Celebration Yummy food, drinks, a balloon blast kids race, glow in the dark balloons and more. Grab a blanket to get set for when the sun sets and the hot air balloons light up the sky! July 24, 5-10pm. COCC Bend Campus, 2600 NW College Way, Bend. $12.24$14.38.

Redmond Night Glow A day full of fun, delicious food, drinks, festivities and a night lit up by glowing hot air balloons. Humans and friendly dogs welcome! July 25, 5-10pm. American Legion Park, 850 SW Rimrock Way, Redmond. Free.

To What Do We Pledge? A facilitated conversation on the Declaration of Independence. When talking about the founding, people often think of it as a severing from a distant power and a proclamation of individual rights. And yet, buried in that big individualistic origin story, there is a pledge of support, solidarity and mutual aid. July 29, 6-7:30pm. Central Library, 61956 SE Santorini Street, Bend. Contact: 541-241-3395. emilyc@deschuteslibrary.org. Free.

OUTDOOR EVENTS

Beginner Kayaking Lessons Whether new to kayaking or looking to enhance foundational skills, our expert instructors will teach essential paddle strokes, safety knowledge and maneuvering techniques. On the Deschutes River in the heart of Bend’s Old Mill District. July 25, 10am-1pm; Aug. 8, 10am-1pm; and Aug. 22, 10am-1pm. Tumalo Creek Kayak & Canoe, 805 SW Industrial Way Suite 6, Bend. Contact: (541) 317-9407. $85.00 per person.

Beginner SUP class Held on the Deschutes River in the Old Mill District, this class is designed to help you build confidence while exploring Central Oregon’s scenic waterways. You’ll learn essential paddle strokes, refine maneuvering skills, improve balance, and practice key safety techniques. Open to participants aged 15 and older. Sundays, 10am-Noon Through Aug. 30. Tumalo Creek Kayak & Canoe, 805 SW Industrial Way Suite 6, Bend. Contact: 541-317-9407. info@tumalocreek.com. $65/person.

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

Friday Night Races Join six unsanctioned Friday night downhill mountain bike races from 3:30-7:30pm at Mt. Bachelor’s Bike Park. Test skills on different tracks, compete in every event or ride favorite trails. Mt. Bachelor, 13000 Century Drive, Bend. $15.90-$21.20.

Golden Hour Yoga at Loving Kindness Lavender Farm Unwind in the lavender fields at Loving Kindness Lavender with a guided farm tour and an all-levels Vin Yin practice. Also enjoy lavender mocktails, farm goods, crystals, jewelry, community connection and a U-cut lavender bouquet. July 28, 6-8:30pm. Loving Kindness Lavender Farm, 5753 SW Wickiup Ave., Redmond. Contact: 720-560-9274. natalie@ nataliecutsforth.com. $65.

Oregon Cascades 100 The 100-mile race has roughly 10,900 feet of gain and 11,400 feet of loss. July 25 and July 26. Pacific Crest Middle School, 303 NW Elwood Ln., Bend. Prices vary. SkyBall Have fun while getting some exercise. For active men and women ages 60+. Mondays and Thursdays, 9:30-10:45am, Pine Nursery Park, at the net just west of the playground. Information and video available on Substack. Search “SkyBallOregon”. Contact Dave 541-233-7573 or email: skyballoregon@icloud.com. Pine Nursery Park, 3750 NE Purcell Blvd., Bend. Contact: 541-2337573. skyballoregon@icloud.com. Free.

VOLUNTEER

Beaver Dam Analog Building in Ochoco National Forest This is a threeday project to bolster potential beaver habitat in Ochoco National Forest. Join us for one day or all three days! Learn about and discuss beaver, wildlife habitat, barriers to habitat connectivity and riparian restoration. July 29, 9am-5pm; July 30, 9am-5pm; and July 31, 9am-5pm. Ochocos, Prineville, Prineville. Contact: 541-699-1606. Maureen@thinkwildco.org. Free.

BPRD Volunteer Project Day Help with taking care of some of the community’s favorite parks and trails! The trails team will help with pulling weeds and picking up litter. July 29, 8-11am. Pine Nursery Park, 3750 NE Purcell Blvd., Bend. Contact: 541-389-7275. info@bendparksandrec.org. Free.

Think Wild Youth Volunteer Program Open to those ages 8-17. Gain a behind-thescenes look into the career of wildlife rehabilitation, what it takes to run a wildlife hospital, care for wildlife ambassadors, educate the public about wildlife coexistence and more. Contact volunteer@thinkwildco.org to RSVP Last Saturday of every month, 10:30am-Noon for ages 1417 and 1-2pm for ages 8-13. Think Wild, 62410 Erickson Road, Bend. Contact: 541-241-6538. volunteer@thinkwildco.org. Free.

Weekly Solidarity Protest Solidarity protest on the Peace Corner every Saturday. Join your concerned community members to protest the injustices in the US, Palestine, Congo, Sudan and around the world. This is a safe inclusive space for all. Saturdays, Noon-2pm. Peace Corner, Corner of NW Greenwood Avenue and NW Wall Street, Bend. Free.

GROUPS + MEETUPS

Bend ET Summer Social @ Cascade Culinary Institute An engaging evening with Bend Emerging Talent. Mingle, connect and learn with fellow professionals at Cascade Culinary Institute! July 28, 5-7pm. COCC, Cascade Culinary Institute, 2555 NW Campus Village Way, Bend. $25/$15 for Chamber Members.

Celebrate n Elevate All women are invited to a networking event unlike the others. Focused on heart-centered celebration, encouragement and elevation. A combination of structured activities and intentional interactions. July 28, 10:30amnoon, and 6-7:30pm. Bend Tea and Art Lounge, 1024 NW Bond St, Suite 101, Bend. Contact: 5416686708. info@bendteal.com. $20 per session.

Community Sing with Debbie Nargi-Brown! Come sing with guest songleader Debbie Nargi-Brown from Santa Cruz! Belt, groove, laugh, and harmonize through joyful, soul-stirring songs taught call-and-echo style. No experience needed. July 23, 6-8:30pm. First Presbyterian Heritage Hall, 230 NE Ninth St., Bend. Contact: 5417283872. voicesrisingcc@gmail.com. 20-35.

Go Electric! Efficiency and Comfort for Renters Learn about real-world electrification solutions for renters. Understand options to improve comfort, reduce energy costs and access local tools. Food provided. July 23, 5:30-7:30pm. Bend City Hall, 710 NW Wall St., Bend. Contact: 541-693-2161. mlee@bendoregon.gov. Free.

Medicinal Plants Tea Workshop With the Peoples Apothecary, learn about medicinal plants native to the United States from Dr. Ashley and how to create home-brewed tea from these species. Limited space. July 23, 6-7:30pm. The Peoples Apothecary, 1841 NE Division St Ste 150, Bend. $23. Self-Care Saturday: Debt Relief Edition

Relax, drink tea and join the Bend Tea and Art Lounge for a monthly debt planning workshop for women who want to make progress without perfection. July 25, 11am-Noon. Bend Tea and Art Lounge, 1024 NW Bond St, Suite 101, Bend. Contact: 5416686708. info@bendteal.com. $25.

Speed Dating for Singles (Ages 50ish and up) Get ready to meet new friends and maybe meet someone special at our Speed Dating event for those aged 50+! Hosted by a professional matchmaker from Epiphany Match! July 27, 6-8pm. Stoller Wine Bar Bend, 555 NW Arizona Ave., Bend. Contact: 406-672-3861. info@epiphanymatch.com. $10.

FUNDRAISING

Bingo4PET A fun evening of bingo supporting Pet Evacuation Team. Bingo cards are $2/each or 6/$10 for each round; cash only. Proceeds split 50/50 between winners and PET. Every other Monday, 6-8pm, through July 27. Dry Canyon Club, 1865 NW Hemlock Ave, Redmond. Contact: 5037990269. louise.s.kaplan@gmail.com. $2/card.

FREE-ish Clothing Sale Calling all thrifters, up-cyclers and creatives. FREE-ish Parking Lot Clothing Event. Everything is for the taking. Asking for small donations for a local single mother who is battling cancer. July 26, 11am-5pm. Good Bad Rad Vintage, 61419 S. Hwy 97 Suite B, Bend. Contact: 5413900495. goodbadradvintage@ gmail.com. Free, donations encouraged.

EVENTS + MARKETS

Bugger Off! Organic Pest & Disease Control in the Veggie Garden Learn how to identify and control our most common veggie garden pests and diseases without the use of pesticides. July 25, 10am-Noon. Franklin’s Corner Community Garden, NE 9th and NE Franklin, Bend. Contact: 541-316-0080. info@worthygardenclub.org. $10/person.

FAMILY + KIDS

Art for Pre-school Class A class designed just for preschoolers ages 3–5! Hands-on art projects, games, poems, story time, sensory-based pretend play and fun! Tuesdays-Thursdays, 10am-Noon. Wondery Art + Adventure School, 19570 Amber Meadow Dr Suite 110, Bend. Contact: 434-603-0301. julie@wonderyschool.com. Starting at $45.

Baby Ninja 6-Week Summer Series

Classes include exploration through soft-obstacle Ninja Warrior courses to develop coordination and balance skills. Plus yoga fun, songs, parachute play and bubbles! Wednesdays, 5:15-6pm, Fridays, 9-9:45am, Wednesdays, 5:15-6pm and Fridays, 9-9:45am. Through Sept. 4. Free Spirit Yoga + Ninja + Play, 320 SW Powerhouse Drive, Suite 150, Bend. Contact: 541-241-3919. info@ freespiritbend.com. $134.

Balloons Over Bend Ballons will be launching over the school just after sunrise. This is a free celebratory family-friendly event. Grab a spot at around 6:15am to guarantee a good view. July 24, 6:45am; July 25, 6:45am; July 26, 6:45am. Jewell Elementary School, 20550 Murphy Rd, Bend. Free.

Deschutes County Fair Exhibits, rides, games, delicious fair food, cotton candy and animal barns! July 29, 11am-10pm; July 30, 11am-10pm; July 31, 11am-11pm; Aug. 1, 11am11pm; Aug. 2, 11am-8pm. Deschutes County Fair & Expo Center, 3800 SW Airport Way, Redmond, Redmond. Prices vary.

Jefferson County Fair and Rodeo Carnival games and fair rides, fair food, drinks, cotton candy, live music and an action-packed rodeo. Bring family and friends for a warm summer day at the fair. July 23-25. Jefferson County Fairgrounds, 430 SW Fairgrounds Rd., Madras. $15. Kids Ninja Summer Camp Kids will enhance their coordination, build strength, and improve their climbing skills. From spirited team games to exhilarating timed races, every moment is filled with excitement! Age 6-10 July 27-30, 1-4pm. Free Spirit Yoga + Ninja + Play, 320 SW Powerhouse Drive, Suite 150, Bend. Contact: 541-241-3919. info@freespiritbend.com. $259.

Kids Open Gym This event is for kids ages 6-12. The gym includes trampolines, foam pits, ninja cage, obstacle course, fort building and more! Those interested can save a spot by pre-registering. Saturdays, 5-7:30pm. Central Oregon Gymnastics Academy, 63060 Layton Ave, Bend. Contact: 541-385-1163. $28/$48 monthly unlimited visits.

Library Adventures Outdoors Join the library and Nature Connect of Central Oregon for a literature-based activity followed by an outdoor education program. July 23, 9-10:30am. Sisters Elementary School, 611 East Cascade Ave., Sisters. Contact: 5413624324. katie@natureconnectco.org. Free.

Little Rollers Youth-focused biking event for children ages 3–9. It takes place on the Strider Course and the Little Pine chairlift and trail system, offering age-appropriate experiences that introduce young riders to mountain biking in a fun, safe, welcoming environment. Registered riders will receive a custom YETI Tumbler, while supplies last. July 26, 10am-Noon; Aug. 16, 10am-Noon; Aug. 23, 10am-Noon. Mt. Bachelor, 13000 Century Drive, Bend. Free.

Mini Ninja 6-Week Summer Series

Children will develop important coordination skills, improve balance, and build confidence as they tackle Ninja Warrior obstacle courses designed around a weekly theme. 6-week series. Wednesdays, 4:15-5pm, Fridays, 10-10:45am and First Friday of every month, 10-11:45am and 4:15-5pm. Through Sept. 4. Free Spirit Yoga + Ninja + Play, 320 SW Powerhouse Drive, Suite 150, Bend. Contact: 541-241-3919. info@ freespiritbend.com. $134.

Nano Ninja Summer Camp 7/27 - 7/30

Kids will have a blast climbing, performing Ninja Warrior gymnastics movements, parkour tumbling, and building new ninja friendships. Kids must be fully restroom-independent. Age 4-6 July 27-30, 9am-Noon. Free Spirit Yoga + Ninja + Play, 320 SW Powerhouse Drive, Suite 150, Bend. Contact: 541-241-3919. info@freespiritbend. com. $259.

Nature Kids: Insect Olympics! Join the Deschutes Land Trust for Nature Kids! Get outside and explore the nature of Central Oregon on guided family nature walks just for kids ages 5-10. July 25, 9:30-11am. Camp Polk Meadow Preserve, outside Sisters, Sisters. Contact: 541330-0017. event@deschuteslandtrust.org. Free.

Neighborhood Nature Days Presented by the NatureConnect Central Oregon partners. Nature exploration, hands-on science, stories and crafts. July 28, 10-11am. Sawyer Park, 62999 O.B. Riley Road, Bend. Contact: 541-362-4324. katie@natureconnectco.org. Free.

Kids ages 3-9 hit the trails and build their skills at Mt. Bachelor’s Little Rollers class on Sunday, July 26.

Mt. Bachelor

Ninja Night Drop the kids off for an action packed evening of ninja obstacle courses, games, climbing, swinging and fun with friends! Our coaches lead exciting activities that build confidence, encourage teamwork and keep kids active in a safe, engaging ninja gym. Saturdays, 5:30-8:30pm. Through Sept. 12. Free Spirit Yoga + Ninja + Play, 320 SW Powerhouse Drive, Suite 150, Bend. Contact: 5412413919. info@freespiritbend.com. $40.

R.A.D. Camps Registration - NOW OPEN! Outdoor adventure programs for ages 4-17. Unstructured play with guided exploration across Central Oregon’s forests, lakes, and trails. Campers build confidence, creativity, and a love for nature. Mondays-Fridays, 8am-4pm. Through Sept. 1. Seven Peaks School, 19660 SW Mountaineer Way, Bend. Contact: 541-204-0440. info@radcamps.com. $89-$99.

Starshine Wild Warriors Camp With inspiration from wild animals, kids develop positive Wild Warrior character traits like courage, teamwork, mindfulness, stealth,and strength. Archery and boating are two of our challenges. We're lifeguard certified so kids swim each day! July 27-July 31, 9am-2pm. The Suttle Lodge & Boathouse, 13300 Hwy 20, Sisters. Contact: 541645-0688. jennie@starshine-theater.com. $365.

The OAC Art Lab Camp Spend the week painting, sculpting, drawing, and experimenting with clay, paint, oil pastels and more. Get messy, try new things, and leave with a gallery of artwork to display. July 27-31, 9am-Noon. The Open Arts Center, 999 NE 2nd St, Bend, OR 97701, Bend. Contact: 978-771-4635. claire@ theopenartscenter.org. $175.

Tween Yoga Summer Camp 7/27 -7/30 Tweens will improve their flexibility, strength, and body awareness. Learn mindfulness practices, different breathing techniques, and how to journal. Create daily art projects. Age 9-13. July 27-30, 12:30-3:30pm. Free Spirit Yoga + Ninja + Play, 320 SW Powerhouse Drive, Suite 150, Bend. Contact: 541-241-3919. info@freespiritbend. com. $269.

Wild Fibers: Bark Basket + Dyes Day Camp! Learn the techniques of folding up and sewing birch bark baskets using all-natural materials. The group will also dabble with wild plant dyes. Breaks for nature and awareness-themed games and snacks/lunch July 29, 9am-1pm. Bend, RSVP for address, Bend. Contact: info@ nighthawknaturalistschool.com. $65.

Youth Wood Carving Day Camp Practice some wood carving aka “whittling” and play nature connection and awareness games. Students will practice bushcraft blade safety and use to craft their own project. July 28, 9am-1pm. Bend, RSVP for address, Bend. Contact: info@ nighthawknaturalistschool.com. $65.

FOOD + DRINK

Summer Chef’s Pairing Experience A summer Chef’s Pairings Experience at the Bend Tasting Room & Restaurant with Winery Ambassador Ashley and Chef Cuin. Enjoy five curated wines paired with four chef-crafted dishes in a communal setting. Tickets include gratuity and a $40 bottle credit with a 2+ bottle purchase. June 28, 4:30-6pm, and July 26, 4:30-6pm. Willamette Valley Vineyards, 916 NW Wall St., Bend. Contact: 541-306-6000. bend@wvv.com. $95.

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.

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

HEALTH +WELLNESS

DEEP REST Restorative Yoga and Massage with Emma & Josh Join licensed massage therapists Emma Thompson and Josh Williams for a rejuvenating restorative yoga class. In this workshop, participants are guided into postures completely supported by props in a peaceful environment while massage therapists offer gentle massage. July 25, 3-5pm. Yoga Shala Bend, 806 NW Brooks St. Suite 200, Bend. Contact: 541 668 6890. yogashalabend@gmail.com. $75.

LGBTQIA+ NAMI Mental Health Peer

Support Group This is a peer-led support group event for adults who identify as S2LGBTQIA and are living with mental health challenges. Second and Fourth Tuesday of every month, 6-7pm. Almadorada, 180 NW Oregon Ave., Bend. Contact: 541-316-0888. organize@ namicentraloregon.org. Free.

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

Men’s Yoga for Low Back & Hips

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

Mutual Aid Workshop Mutual aid is the practice of sharing resources and supporting one another for the common good. In this workshop, make herbal salves for everyday first aid and help create extra salves for community mutual-aid kits. All class fees support access to herbal care for our community. July 26, 4-6pm. The Peoples Apothecary, 1841 NE Division Street, Bend. Contact: 5417282368. classes@ thepeoplesapothecary.net. $40.

NAMI Central Oregon Bend In-Person

Adult Mental Health Peer Support

Group NAMI’s Peer Connection Support Group is a free, peer-led support group for adults living with mental health challenges. Attendees will gain insight from hearing the challenges and successes of others, and the groups are led by NAMI-trained facilitators who’ve been there. Fourth and Second Sunday of every month, 3-4:30pm. NAMI Bend In-Person Peer Support Group, 62030 Dean Swift Rd, Bend. Contact: 541-316-0888. organize@namicentraloregon.org. Free.

NAMI Family Support Group Gain hope and develop supportive relationships. This group allows one’s voice to be heard and provides an opportunity for personal needs to be met. Second and Fourth Wednesday of every month, 5:30-6:30pm. First Presbyterian Church, 230 NE Ninth St., Bend. Contact: info@namicentraloregon.org. Free.

Reiki Yin Slow down, soften and reconnect. Long-held postures target fascia, joints and connective tissue, encouraging release and flow. Reiki, hands-on healing and craniosacral massage techniques support relaxation and balance. Perfect for all levels to restore. July 26, 11am12:30pm. Bend Yoga Center, 1230 NE 3rd Street, Suite A230, Bend. Contact: yoga@bendyoga. center. $15-35 Sliding Scale.

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

Rise in Rhythm Rise in Rhythm is a gentle blend of yoga, guided meditation and sound bath designed to help reconnect body and breath and bring intentionality into the morning routine. Thursdays, all levels gentle yoga & sound bath with Lisa Tynan, 7:30-8:30am. Through July 30. Pine and Prism Wellness Collective, 856 Northwest Bond Street #Suite 202, Bend. Contact: 5419052949. soundbathstillness@gmail.com. $10-20.

Rumi in the Room Relax with poetry, Kriya yoga and a soothing sound bath. No prior yoga experience needed. All body types, belief systems and experience levels welcome. Attendees will be lying down or sitting in a chair. July 27, 6-7pm. Redmond Public Library, 827 SW Deschutes Ave., Redmond. Contact: 541-312-1032. lizg@deschuteslibrary.org. Free.

Somatic Channeling Circle: FREE

Somatic channeling group for those already practicing embodied energy work. Gather in a small, supportive circle to deepen connection through shared experience. Reach out via email thdubose@gmail.com or phone for the location. Every other Sunday, 4-6pm. Harriman Healing Arts, 1010 NW Harriman St, Bend. Contact: 541797-3638. thdubose@gmail.com. Free.

The Personal Growth & Wellness Fair

This event brings together various elements that promote personal growth and community engagement including natNatural Healing: Explore holistic approaches to wellness. July 25, 11am4pm. Hanai Center, 62430 Eagle Road, Bend. Contact: 541-420-0794. info@sunnysideupbend. com. Free.

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

Kids will learn courage, teamwork, mindfulness, stealth and strength at the Starshine Wild Warriors Camp July 27-31 at The Suttle Lodge & Boathouse.

Starshine Theater

By Nic Moye

Supporting Community Through the Outlaw Country Tradition

Local artists join forces to raise money and food for local nonprofits

Ten local artists are teaming up for a fundraiser benefitting the Latino Community Association of Central Oregon and NeighborImpact. The event on Aug. 1 is called “Willie and Friends: Unbroken Circle.” It’s a community concert inspired by the outlaw country tradition pioneered by Willie Nelson and a generation of songwriters, poets, outlaws and highwomen who used music to tell stories and bring people together. Local artists will perform songwriter rounds, collaborative tributes and original music with an independent spirit. Performers include Oregon Fryer, Bend Bluegrass Collective, Johnny Bourbon, Cecila Voss, Punkwife and Phases and Strangers.

Festival organizer Joe Estrada says he was inspired to do a benefit concert after having success with a Willie Nelson tribute in Februrary. Willie Nelson was one of the main figures of the outlaw country subgenre that developed in the late 1960s as a reaction to conservative restrictions within the Nashville sound. Nelson released his version of “Will the Circle Be Unbroken” in 1976 on his gospel album, “The Troublemaker.” It symbolizes an unbroken family bond with the hope of reuniting with loved ones in heaven.

“Willie, to me, is a living beacon of the power every single last one of us has to stand up for what we believe, to help our neighbors and to try to make the world a little bit better by doing what you can for your community regardless of how big or small your resources are,” Estrada explains.

The benefit concert will raise money through ticket sales and raffles. Estrada says Silver Moon is donating 100% of the ticket sales which will go to the Latino Community Association. That group supports local families with immigration services, health programs, workforce development and community engagement. Breedlove Guitars, Suttle Lake Lodge, Burn Boot Camp and Arrowleaf Hemp are

donating raffle prizes. There will also be a virtual food drive which allows people to donate specific items online ahead of or at the event. Raffle money and the food donations will benefit NeighborImpact which assists low-income people with rent, energy bills, food, pre-kindergarten education and other resources. The nonprofit helps more than 55,000 households in Central Oregon each year.

Estrada says he chose those two nonprofits because, “It’s no secret that we are living in difficult, scary times and that many of our friends, family and neighbors are struggling right now. Struggling with ever rising costs, struggling with fear, struggling with helplessness and struggling with uncertainty from one day to the next. I know I have been feeling all of that, I know my wife has, and far too many of our friends and family.”

He says his love of Willie Nelson inspired him to take action. “The first and most enduring lesson you tend to learn when you become a fan of that music is that while you can always be angry at the injustice you see around you in the world, you can also try to do something about it too. Not just to live in the anger and hopelessness... You don’t need anyone’s permission to go out in the world and just try.” Willie &

Sat, Aug 1 2-10pm Silver Moon Brewing 24 NW Greenwood Ave, Bend bendticket.com/events/willie-friends-unbroken-circle-willie-nelson-tribute-fundraiser-8-1-2026 $17.59

Friends: Unbroken Circle

Oregon Fryer Facebook

Johnny Bourbon Wikipedia

Johnny Bourbon Facebook

Oregon Fryer performs American Roots music with a twist of honky-tonk and rock ‘n roll.

Johnny Bourbon is a lifelong poet and musician who’s performed with various alt-country and punk rock bands.

CULTURE

Summer Reading Is a Mood What to read during the dog days of summer

By Ashley Redwood

Summer reading has a look: a pastel cover, a beach chair and a sunset in the background. But the look isn’t the point. Summer reading is a mood. It’s the book you crack open at noon on a lazy summer day and then look up to find the light’s gone. The one-sitting kind, the can’tput-it-down kind. I’ve got four for you, and no two are alike: a backyard satire, a boyband cruise, a Tuscan comedy and a romance to send you off warm. Pack accordingly!

“Alan Opts Out” — by Courtney Maum

I laughed out loud reading this book. It’s the kind of fun, sharp satire you need when life feels heavy. Alan is a wealthy advertising executive who decides to “opt out” of capitalism by trying to “live off the land” in his backyard — after an anarchist farmer crashes his big pitch. What follows is a hysterically absurd romp through the anxieties of wealthy Connecticut. Maum — a Connecticut resident herself — skewers it all with perfect precision, especially through Alan’s daughters, one of whom talks to animals, because of course she does. This is for readers who love social commentary that doesn’t take itself too seriously and will make you cackle at the ridiculousness of it all.

“Our Perfect Storm” — by Carley Fortune

WHAT CASSIE'S READING

“American Fantasy” — by Emma Straub

Newly divorced and adrift at 50, Annie boards a fourday themed cruise she never meant to take: a floating party for superfans of Boy Talk, a fictional ‘90s boy band. Then, somewhere between the slushy cocktails and the sea of women belting the songs of their youth, she finds a version of herself she’d misplaced. What made me feel so good while reading this book was that a member of the boy band finds himself just as lost as Annie. When they finally meet, they see in each other what the other might have been missing. This book is perfect for readers who love Taylor Jenkins Reid and Emily Henry.

“Villa Coco” — by Andrew Sean Greer

Broke and adrift, a young American answers an ad for an “adjutant” and lands at a crumbling villa in the Tuscan hills, in the employ of Coco — a gloriously imperious 92-year-old Baronessa whose demands run from evicting a marten to entertaining an endless parade of painters and princesses. What I loved about this book was its quirkiness and the sweet love story at its center, between the main character and a visiting cousin of the Baronessa, who happens to be married...but not in the way you think. For fans of “The Paris Novel” by Ruth Reichl and “Go Gentle” by Maria Semple.

And finally, something that just feels good! Two best friends spend a week together at a Pacific Northwest resort to either repair a friendship that’s been fraying for years… or finally admit it was never just a friendship to begin with. Both the development of the characters and the setting were transportive to that rollercoaster ride of powerful love and the friendship at its core, which allows it to bloom so beautifully. Pick this one up if you want to get lost in the romance of the rocky, wild, mist-cloaked beaches of British Columbia.

Still on my nightstand

And still on my list for August are “Saltwater” by Katy Hays and “Last Night in Brooklyn” by Xochitl Gonzalez. “Saltwater”combines Capri, old-money family, and a death 30 years ago that no one believes was an accident. I can’t wait to read this one and be swept up in the craggy, saltwater-sprayed cliffs of Capri. And finally, a literary triumph by Xochitl Gonzalez, author of “Olga Dies Dreaming.” Also, “Last Night in Brooklyn,” described as a modern-day Gatsby set in 2007, takes place against the backdrop of the historic 2008 presidential election and the financial collapse of the same year. This book promises a propulsive, highstakes drama of a classic beach read and the literary clout Gonzalez is known for.

Whatever you read this summer, I hope that you wile away warm afternoons with your nose in a book that enthralls you. Relish the power of a story to connect us to each other, to ourselves, and to the season. Happy reading!

“Blacktail” by

Scott Hawkins

—The wolf Blacktail is faithful to his Forest God, but faith is not enough. His world is besieged by men. Soon his territory will be overrun, and then there will be nowhere left to go. When his mate is killed, Blacktail rebels. He invades the house of her owners, seeking vengeance.

As Blacktail journeys farther from his wild home and deeper into the world of man, he encounters strangers—animal, mortal, and otherworldly—who want to help Blacktail rid the world of humans. Along the way, it becomes clear that he is more than just a wolf. The Forest God is sleeping, yes. But what will be the price of waking him?

Roundabout Books

CHOW C Bulgogi Cheesesteaks, BiBim Tots and Banchan, Oh My!

Yoli launches Po-jang, an elevated Korean comfort food truck

By Jared Rasic

To me, there are only a few touchstones of Bend left anymore when it comes to the food scene.

The landscape of cuisine has always been fluid and ever-shifting, but now, more than ever, it seems like we can’t take any of our favorite spots for granted. Whenever I’m showing out-of-state filmmakers around during the BendFilm Festival or have someone I really want to impress, I take them to Yoli. What Joe and Laura Kim have created at the unassuming spot on Wall Street isn’t just an indelible Korean restaurant, but a very welcoming space where I have had two or three of the greatest meals of my entire life.

Three-time James Beard award nominee Chef Kim’s pop-up French cuisine night is easily in the top two meals I’ve ever had, so whatever he has planned, I’ll be there with an empty belly and a smile on my face. Luckily, we don’t have to wait any longer for Joe and Laura’s next concept: Yoli Pojang, a Korean food truck at Ballers and Brews.

First off, the menu is eclectic and delectable (Eclectable?) with a Bulgogi Cheesesteak ($14), fried chicken sandwich, BiBim tots, K-Dogs, his legendary banchan (small, shared side dishes) and quite a bit more. The Bulgogi Cheesesteak was layered with flavor as the sliced short rib (marinated in a sweet garlic tamari) met with the onions, crispy peppers and house-made four-cheese sauce on a large, crunchy sub roll and combined into a lovely mid-west/South Korean fusion.

The BiBim Tots with beef ($16) was also a comforting treat, with the perfectly crisp tots buried under layers of short rib, sirloin, onions, scallions, shredded cheese, red onion, cilantro, sour cream and pickled jalapeños. The high quality of the bulgogi and the complex deliciousness of the flavor profile are another very playful way for Chef Kim to elevate comfort food into remarkable new areas.

From the flawless Napa cabbage kimchi, pickle daikon and spicy daikon banchan to the perfectly breaded Korean battered hot dog stuffed with mozzarella, there isn’t a single dish on the menu I wouldn’t have again. Yoli Pojang allows Chef Kim to really experiment with some of the more classic Korean flavors in ways both exciting and innovative. I’ll be back as soon as I can.

I had a chance to talk with Chef Kim about his history with food and some of his inspirations. Here is our chat, edited for length.

the Source: Could you talk a little about yourself and your history with cuisine and, more spe cifically, Korean cuisine?

actually. Korea was such a poor country at that time that you were better off being in a country where people hated you than in your native country. After the Korean War, my family returned to Korea, so he grew up between Korea and Japan, which is why he had Japanese restaurants when I was a teenager. My mother was an American, so I grew up eating out of the Betty Crocker cookbook with her. When I was with my father, I was eating Korean food and Japanese food, not knowing the difference between the two. I started working in my father’s restaurant around the age of 12 or 13, still not knowing the difference between Korean and Japanese food. I didn’t realize many dishes that we served at his restaurant were Korean. After college, I wanted nothing to do with the restaurant business and went into finance. When I found out I hated that, I went back into restaurants, specifically Japanese, and then transitioned to American fine dining, but I was always trying to learn as much as I could from whoever I could, which led me to learn about Korean cui sine from my aunt in Ulsan, South Korea. As all Korean Americans say, Korean food was looked down upon. It was thought to be gross, smelly, and it was a pretty tough sell to Americans who weren’t adventurous eaters. When I was at our last restaurant, there were many Korean influences and dishes on the menu, but Yoli was the first full Korean restaurant for me. As South Korea has been emerging into American culture, it has been easier to embrace my heritage and my cuisine.

JK: We will keep the core menu the same, but there will always be specials, like there are at the restaurant; always new items just because I want to share different flavors, textures, and creations with our town.

tS: What are some of the main differences people will notice between the restaurant and the truck?

JK: At the restaurant, we try to create an environment that is comfortable for everyone, whether you are in shorts and flip-flops or going out for your anniversary. We try to give you a comfortable but upscale experience. We also offer the 5-course menu and the Chef’s tasting menu at the restaurant, which is definitely going to be more upscale/fine dining. Whereas at the food truck we get to serve corn dogs and tater tots, things that would not necessarily fit in the restaurant, but are great when you’re sitting on a patio with a cold beer. We are also able to serve things at a lower cost to our customers because our overhead is lower at the food truck than at the restaurant.

tS: What do you hope people take away from a meal at Pojang?

tS: What inspired you to open Yoli Pojang? What was the initial concept?

Joe Kim: My father is Korean. He was born in Japan during World War II, in a bomb shelter,

During COVID, we did a popup ghost kitchen for delivery that was called BAP culture, which is where I first made the chicken sandwich, the Korean corn dogs, and the bulgogi tots. When I was writing the menu for Yoli, there were so many things I wanted to do, but many of them did not fit into the type of restaurant that we were creating, so Pojang is the overflow for creativity that does not fit in the restaurant. Some of it is street food. Some of it is a blend of cultures, which is truly what Korea has been creating for some time now.

tS: Do you want to keep the menu fairly locked down or fluid?

JK: I hope that people see more about Korean food, and that people just realize it’s not as scary as Anthony Bourdain made it look on TV. I hope the people that eat at Yoli will discover the food truck and some of the more modern/fusion dishes at Pojang and the customers from Pojang will discover some of the more elevated dishes at Yoli.

tS: Do you find in the Pacific Northwest it’s easier to attract customers with fusion or more traditional dishes?

JK: I think that the community of Central Oregon has so many transplanted people that it’s a 50-50. You have so many people here that were in Korea because of a job or the military and so they want the flavors that they may have had before in Korea and then you have the people that have not been exposed to that yet, and this is their first taste of Korean food so when you put those Korean ingredients on top of tater tots or as a cheesesteak, it’s a little more familiar and an easier step to take into a new cuisine

Regardless of whether you’re after the upscale vibe of Yoli or the elevated comfort cuisine of Pojang, Joe and Laura Kim exemplify fine cuisine and hospitality. You feel so welcomed by them that it’s honestly hard not to eat there every day. For this food writer, they signify Bend at its very finest.

Yoli Po-jang Thu-Mon

Ballers & Brews

20869 Redside Ct., Bend yolipojang.com/

K-DOG

BULGOGICHEESESTEAK

PhotosbyJaredRasic

LITTLE BITES

By Nic Moye

Healthful Food Options for the Public and New Moms

A new organic grocery store to open and a new program supporting infant nutrition

Organic grocer to open in downtown Redmond

The vacant JoAnn Fabrics building on SW Sixth Street in Redmond will soon be home to Natural Grocers. The City of Redmond says the Redmond Urban Renewal Agency has approved a forgivable grant of up to $500,000 to Natural Grocers for building improvements. The City says the grocery chain plans to invest about $2 million to transform the site with interior and exterior renovations.

Natural Grocers, with more than 170 stores in 22 states, including one in Bend, is a natural, organic food retailer based in Lakewood, Colorado. The new Redmond location is expected to open in early 2027.

A free program supports baby nutrition

Central Oregon Locavore launched Baby RX. The new program gives breastfeeding and infant nutrition supplies to low-income, at-risk and Neonatal Intensive Care Unit families in Central Oregon at no cost. A health care provider completes a prescription form and faxes it to Locavore, then the family picks up the prescription. The pilot program is being done in partnership with the St. Charles Lactation team for the next six months. After that, it will be rolled out to additional neonatal and pediatric providers.

Baby RX operates as a rolling fund. As families redeem prescriptions, the fund is spent down and must be replenished through community donations. The fund was launched with donations from Central Oregon Health Quality Alliance, First Interstate Bank and East Cascade Women’s Group.

The founder of Central Oregon Locavore and registered nurse at St. Charles, Nicolle Timm-Branch, said in a news release, “In my 25 years of caring for babies and mothers, I have watched families choose between breastfeeding supplies and rent. Baby RX means no parent in Central Oregon has to make that choice.”

Central Oregon Locavore is a Bendbased nonprofit connecting farmers, ranchers and producers directly with customers. As a farmer-first model, 65-cents of each dollar goes directly to the growers and producers.

Find Your Way West

A new local hangout with options for takeout, dine-in or happy hour opens in Bend

The Way West is now open on SW Industrial Way. That’s the mash-up of a deli-brewery between Sisters Meat & Smokehouse and Bend Brewing Company. The flexible concept offers grab & go options, a full-service dining room or a hang at the bar.

There’s a meat market as well as a dinner menu, happy hour menu and bar menu. The meat market menu features a variety of sandwiches including smoked chicken, brisket, smoked roast beef, pork, turkey and a roasted broccoli veggie option. It also sells a variety of meats, cheeses, sides and sauces. The

dinner menu offers a peachy pecan salad, smoked trout dip, hot honey Brussels, cowboy caviar and more. Happy hour is offered daily 3-5pm.

There’s seating inside as well as a spacious outside patio. The deli-bar is next to Sister Coffee Company on the ground floor of the Jackstraw apartment complex adjacent to the Box Factory.

The Way West Daily 10am-Close

310 SW Industrial Way, Suite 114, Bend thewaywestbend.com/

SC SCREEN Practical Magic

Nolan’s “The Odyssey” updates and enriches the epic poem

By Jared Rasic

It’s deeply frustrating to be a film critic in the midst of an endless, exhausting culture war. The moment casting choices were announced for Christopher Nolan’s adaptation of Homer’s “The Odyssey,” Earth’s first trillionaire tweeted that the filmmaker had “lost his integrity” by casting Lupita Nyong’o as Helen of Troy. Predictably, the conservative half of the internet and the manosphere chimed in, review-bombing the film as “woke trash” simply for embracing diversity and inclusion (meaning fewer white faces than they like to see), with trans actor Elliot Page also drawing their ire.

Let me be direct so those with delicate constitutions can stop reading now: If it bothers you that Lupita Nyong’o plays Helen of Troy, but you have no issue with the fact that no one cast is actually Greek, your grievance isn’t historical accuracy—it’s racism. I have never been in a physical fight in my entire life, but I would gladly go to war over Nyong’o. She’s an absolute powerhouse of an actress and one of the most beautiful women to ever live. Casting a woman of color adds a brilliant thematic layer to the narrative, deepening the subtext of how Helen is ultimately treated by her husband, Menelaus, after the war.

Similarly, if you’re upset by LGBTQ+ actors appearing in a story about ancient Greeks, you clearly know nothing about ancient Greek culture. If you’ve written off Nolan’s “The Odyssey” solely because of its diverse and queer casting, you quite frankly don’t deserve good movies anymore, and because POC and queer representation aren’t going anywhere, you won’t get them either.

I could respect the critique of the film from strict Homeric purists who refuse to tolerate any alterations made to their beloved “Iliad” and “Odyssey.” Personally, I haven’t read the epic poem since high school, so I went in without preconceptions other than knowing that adaptations are never onefor-one and simply hoping Christopher Nolan would knock my socks on their ass. While his filmography isn’t flawless (I’m not as in love with “Tenet” and “The Dark Knight Rises” as much as others are), he still has earned a lifetime pass from me after “Inception,” “Memento,” “The Dark Knight” and “The Prestige.”

What Nolan delivers with “The Odyssey” is classic, old-fashioned filmmaking on a scale rarely seen since Hollywood succumbed to its over-reliance on CGI.

The synergy of his muscular, technical direction, Jennifer Lame’s combustible, non-linear editing, Hoyte van Hoytema’s lyrical cinematography and Ludwig Göransson’s mercurial score results in

cyclops, the Gods and witches. If historical accuracy is your metric for enjoyment, this isn’t the movie for you.

In typical Nolan fashion, the film features a fractured, non-linear timeline with the bulk of the story narrated by Odysseus to Calypso on the island. If you find yourself struggling with some of the stylistic choices being made, then

a film that audiences will discover with awe for decades to come.

Nolan makes several bold controversial choices here, but the diverse casting isn’t the fearless one. He decides to have the cast speak in modern English with American accents, alongside intentionally anachronistic armor and ship designs. If you’re a history buff incapable of suspending your disbelief when things aren’t realistic, then this will probably be a dealbreaker. But keep in mind: this is a story featuring giants,

just consider the source: Odysseus is a deeply unreliable narrator who has spent nearly a decade consuming lotus flowers. Under those conditions, anyone’s memory would be a bit hazy.

Ultimately, these surface-level aesthetics are secondary to what Nolan is actually trying to say. The film rejects the trope of timeless heroes and brave conquests. Instead, Nolan deconstructs the 3,000-year-old poem to focus on the devastating cost of warfare and the spiritual decay that plagues a man

of violence. Odysseus committed war crimes; by modernizing the narrative context, Nolan ensures that this moral darkness carries immense weight. Odysseus’ 10-year exile is reframed not as a series of exciting fantasy adventures, but as a gauntlet of psychological mirrors. The witches, sirens and monsters pale in comparison to Odysseus’ own demons, which are then externalized as the most dangerous threats he must conquer before he can return home.

Matt Damon delivers an excellent old-school movie star performance as Odysseus, balancing a shattered weariness in his eyes with an everyman vulnerability that few actors could pull off. Would Benicio del Toro, Josh Brolin, or Javier Bardem have brought a heavier intensity? Perhaps, but it would be a radically different movie. Unfortunately, most of the women in the cast are underutilized; Charlize Theron, Zendaya and Lupita Nyong’o share roughly 10 minutes of collective screen time.

“The Odyssey” is an epic in every possible interpretation of the word. Because the big adventure moments are shot practically and in camera on next-generation IMAX cameras, the film modulates between maximalist spectacle and devastatingly intimate human moments. Nolan proves once again that he is the ultimate mainstream auteur, crafting intellectually demanding and emotionally resonant movies that still function as spectacular mass entertainment.

If the primary purpose of cinema is transportive, “The Odyssey” succeeds entirely. In many ways, it serves as a spiritual sequel to “Oppenheimer,” asking how we return home when we have destroyed our own souls to win a war. For audiences capable of looking past the petty tribalism manufactured by social media algorithms, the film offers some profound lessons on the dangers of hubris and the futility of war. I only wonder if we are willing to learn them.

“The Odyssey”

Matt Damon gives an old school movie star performance in “The Odyssey.” Warner Bros

OUTSIDE Bend into Balance: Interview with Dr. Kevin Jones of Flow Wellness

Keeping the pounds off

By Adriana Marino

In 2010, I traveled with a small film crew to Monterey, Mexico to meet Manuel Uribe for a documentary on obesity I was directing for National Geographic. At that time, he was 44 years old and held the Guinness Record as the heaviest man alive at 597 kilos or 1,320 pounds. For the last 13 years, Manuel had been living on an aged queen-sized mattress where he was restricted to perform all his daily activities and bodily functions. Manuel could not get up from that 60x80inch bed. It was not only difficult to fathom how he endured such a confining situation, but I also wondered how he reached that point and was his weight reversible? In 2014, Manuel died at age 48 due to complications related to morbid obesity.

Adult obesity in the U.S. hit an all-time high of nearly 40% in 2022. Since then, it’s gradually dropped to about 36% in 2026 — a meaningful decline that seems to line up with the growing use of GLP-1 medications like Ozempic and Wegovy. Since 2024, Americans’ use of GLP-1 injectables for weight loss has nearly quadrupled.

Having not forgotten Manuel’s story and curious to learn more about this rapidly escalating trend in weight-loss management, I interviewed Dr. Kevin Jones of Flow Wellness.

Excerpts from the podcast with Dr. Kevin Jones (quotes have been abridged for print version):

Kevin Jones: The tragedy with obesity is that it affects so many parts of people’s lives. It’s linked with higher risks of heart disease, cancer, stroke, longevity. And there really wasn’t a treatment for it. Primary care doctors say exercise more and eat better, but that only gets you to a point. I’m eating right. I’m exercising. I live in Bend; I get out, but the pounds just keep on adding on. Middle-aged people gain on average roughly a pound a year. No matter how hard you’re trying; your body is just slowing down and eventually that affects people. Either their exercise tolerance goes down or they have a health concern. And we’re seeing folks that are hitting that point where “I’ve heard of these treatments, I know I’m getting worse. I’ve done everything I can to get better. Would this work for me?”

And now we have this medication that can help people get to where they want to be and feel like themselves again. It’s really phenomenal.

We are seeing it used a lot more commonly now for other conditions. Mainly in the longevity space. There is a large study that showed semaglutide, which is the original weight loss medication, had a 15% drop in all-cause mortality for people who took it over a study period. And so, people are looking to say, “hey, I can actually use this medication, help you live longer.”

Adriana Marino: I am curious about how the care is provided for while they’re taking the drug. What is an appropriate weight loss per week?

KJ: That really depends on what their initial weight is. On average, 1 to 3 pounds is considered a healthy weight loss on appetite. We do have some people who have 50-plus pounds to lose, and they’ll drop like 10 or 20 pounds the first month, just really fast. We don’t want that to be sustained. But that can happen. We don’t just want to up people’s dose too fast. But most people don’t want that because you’re going to feel pretty miserable.

You start low and go slow. This is a process. It is a journey. You are going to get to your goal weight in a month. And then it’s a long-term commitment. And then also the big thing to do is to talk about what happens when you get to your goal. What do you want to do next? Because if people stop these medications, statistically, they are going to regain weight.

AM: I read that normally half the patients will gain the weight back.

KJ: Yeah, it happens very slowly. And a lot of times people will still wind up under where they were before. And so, we want to warn people that just like anything else, there’s no permanent fix. There’s no magic bullet. We do have some people that get to their goal weight and then get back to their healthy habits and stay there. That’s probably the biggest minority.

And then other people just really feel so much better on the medication that they just want to stay on it. And we work them to a maintenance dose, like a lower dose, maybe more affordable medication. And what people really find that the benefit is - that’s hard to explain until you’ve experienced it - is the lack of food noise or cravings. Because when you’re living that life all the time, you don’t think about it. But people get very food-stressed. I know that was an issue for me when I was working night shifts in the ER. I’d always feel hungry because I was using calories to get some energy. And I personally take the medication. And when I started, that noise just went away and I was, like, wow, that was really, like, a big part of the background thinking in my life. And now it’s gone and it’s really nice.

Listen to the complete podcast with Dr. Kevin Jones -->

—Adriana Mariño is the producer and host of Bend into Balance. She is a board-certified functional medicine health & wellness coach and a graduate of the 200hour yoga teacher training at Namaspa and loves to swim, ski, hike, bike, and travel. Adriana can be reached at adrimarino@ hotmail.com.

Photos provided by Flow Wellness

Dr . Kevin Jones

By Nic Moye

Doctor on Hantavirus Cruise is One of the Top Birders in the World

Dr. Stephen Kornfeld will give a free talk on July 30

This past Friday, July 17, Dr. Stephen Kornfeld, a semi-retired Bend oncologist, was in Klamath Falls viewing a bird that he hadn’t seen before: a Least Bittern. An avid birder, he was on board the Dutch cruise ship MV Hondius in April when the Andes hantavirus spread — a rare strain that can transmit person-to-person. Kornfeld was onboard the 5-week cruise visiting remote islands in the South Atlantic to view unusual birds and mammals. He gained sudden fame after stepping in to assist sick passengers after the ship’s doctor became ill. Kornfeld says at least 80% of the cruise took place before anyone realized they had an outbreak.

“The sickness came on the boat April 1, and the first guy got sick April 5 and he died April 11. But because he died, the trip continued,” Kornfeld told the Source. The man’s wife became ill, but she got off the boat. Then another man became ill, but he was evacuated. With no one actually sick on the boat, the cruise continued. “Nobody on the boat or off the boat thought there was a disease spreading on the boat, so the trip carried on,” he said. “Sounds kind of weird, doesn’t it?”

Things changed at the end of April when several people on board became ill. At first, Kornfeld said he didn’t have protection. He searched the ship and found 2,000 masks, with 10 that were N95. He eventually found goggles and gowns which he also began wearing.

“I had access to the World Health Organization, and I read everything ever published on hantavirus. Didn’t take that long,” he said. “There were some other medicines I could use. There were steroids. There was Tylenol. There were anti-inflammatory drugs… From a pure medical standpoint, there wasn’t a lot to do… There are no proven therapies. It’s really supportive care.”

He says there were about 100 people on the ship and most of them remained calm and compliant.

“I feel good about the way I did step up and the way I remained calm and the way that I worked very hard, keeping everybody on the boat calm, because it really could have been very chaotic… You never know how you’re going to respond in those kinds of circumstances until you’re in those circumstances.”

The Andes hantavirus has a 30% fatality rate. Altogether there were a dozen infections on board the ship and three deaths. As a precaution, Kornfeld was held in quarantine for 42 days. He says the worst part of the ordeal was his time in Nebraska, where he says he was forced by the federal government to remain. He was kept 24 hours a day in a soundproof room where he couldn’t even hear the birds outside his window. “A very extreme government overreach coming from a government that prides itself on personal freedom and lack of health restrictions. So, after 21 days, I then planned on going home, but the government started throwing barriers. They were forcing people, without any medical justification, to stay in Nebraska. Oregon really stepped up to the plate to help get me home.”

Kornfeld hasn’t stopped talking about his experience. He’s scheduled to speak at the Rotary club, a Central Oregon bird conservancy and the Oregon Health & Science University wilderness medicine conference. He will also give a talk at the Deschutes Brewery Public House in downtown Bend on July 30, which will be moderated by Dr. Archie Bleyer. Central Oregon Medical Society is hosting the free event. No registration or membership is required to attend. Central Oregon Medical Society has been in Central Oregon for a century, connecting medical providers with one another.

While much has been reported about Kornfeld’s front row seat to the viral outbreak, he was on the cruise for birdwatching. In fact, according to World eBirders, Kornfeld is the second most accomplished birder in the world. At last check, he had seen 9,938 species.

“I like trying to go to areas of the world that still have wilderness left, and it’s very hard to find that. Most of the world has been radically altered, and there’s just no wilderness. I mean, the Philippines, Indonesia, Malaysia — it’s all been cut down, and there’s nothing left. And here’s a chance to go to some very remote areas with breathtaking landscapes,” he said, explaining why he was on the cruise.

Kornfeld, who’s 69, spends about seven months of the year traveling. His next bird trip will be to islands north of Madagascar, followed by an excursion to Chile. His overall goal is to see a bird from every family. Experts generally recognize about 250 unique bird families globally with more than 11,000 individual species.

“I love thinking about the evolution of birds and the way birds have evolved on the planet, and so much of it has to do with, you know, the way that Earth has changed over millions of years.” He explains, “I try to see birds that are on the verge of extinction. That’s kind of a mixed blessing because there are very few of them left. It takes a lot of work to see them, but at the same time, I feel that we’re in a place in the history of the planet in which I’m seeking to see birds that will not be there in 10 years. They will be gone forever and that reminds me how hard we’ve been on the planet.”

Kornfeld was recently in England where he attended a bird fair. “I ran into one of the people I took care of on the boat,” he said. “I couldn’t believe it. I just had so much emotion. It was emotional for him and his daughter cried and hugged me and thanked me…. I think there are a lot of lessons here for me. I don’t want life to go back as it was. I want it to go forward with maybe a little different perspective for myself and maybe that’s what I need to be talking about.”

Dr. Stephen Kornfeld

Thu, July 30 6:30-8pm

Deschutes Brewery Public House (Upstairs) 1044 NW Bond St, Bend

https://comedsoc.org/july-med-talk-2-2/ Free

Dr. Stephen Kornfeld is considered the second most accomplished birder in the world for the number of species he’s seen.

Photos provided by Dr. Stephen Kornfeld

THE PSYCHEDELIC FRONTIER EXPLORING INTENTIONAL PSYCHEDELIC USE IN THE MODERN WORLD

By Mary Casanave Sheridan

When Your Guide Loses Their Way

Q: I recently had a psilocybin ceremony that left me feeling deeply unsettled because of how my guide handled things. I’m not sure if what happened was a violation or if I’m the one out of line. How do I know if my experience with a guide was actually problematic? And if it is, what do I do?

A: First, thank you for reaching out about this important topic. In ceremony, you are in one of the most vulnerable states a human being can occupy, and what you felt in that space deserves to be taken seriously. The fact that you are questioning this rather than pushing it aside tells me your inner compass is doing its job; that is a great place to begin.

There is a real distinction worth making. Psychedelic work is uncomfortable by nature and can sometimes feel scary, triggering or disorienting. That kind of discomfort is not only normal, it is often where the deepest transformation starts. What we are looking for is the difference between the discomfort of the journey and the discomfort of feeling unsafe with another person.

Did your guide remain emotionally grounded when you were not? Were your boundaries respected? Did any interactions feel confusing or unwanted, or like something you did not explicitly agree to beforehand? Did you feel seen as an individual, or managed through someone else’s agenda? Were you left alone for long stretches? Did anything feel coercive? If any of that resonates, you have a legitimate complaint.

Sorting Through What Happened

Give yourself a little time. Ceremony experiences continue to unfold after the medicine clears. Journaling, time outside and honest conversation with someone you trust can bring clarity. Take notes. Working with a therapist or integration coach who understands psychedelic experiences can help you sort out what happened.

If You Want to Talk to Your Guide

Directly

Sometimes the most important conversation is the hardest one. If you feel called to speak with your guide directly, go into the conversation grounded and prepared.

Write out your experience and feelings first. Get clear with yourself about what you remembered happened, how it affected you and what you are asking for. Are you looking for acknowledgment, an apology, a better understanding of their reasoning or something more? Knowing what you need before

you walk in changes everything. If an in-person conversation feels like too much, you could write a letter or email. It lets you say exactly what you mean without being interrupted and it creates a record.

Consider having a third-party present. Pay close attention to how your guide receives what you share. A person of genuine integrity can hear difficult feedback without becoming defensive or dismissive.

Accountability Resources

If you know who trained your facilitator, consider reaching out to their mentor or teacher. Lineages in this work carry real responsibility, and an ethical teacher will want to know someone they trained has caused harm and help hold them responsible. If your ceremony involved more than one facilitator or your guide works within an organization, reaching out to discuss or explore their formal complaint process is a reasonable next step. If your facilitator holds a license in another field such as a therapist, nurse or teacher, their licensing board is also an avenue available to you. You do not have to mention the medicine at all. If you are in Oregon and the incident occurred under the state-licensed psilocybin program, you can make a report through Oregon Health Authority. If it was outside of a regulated space, organizations like the Chacruna Institute’s Council for the Protection of Sacred Plant Medicines, the Psychedelic Safety Institute and Fireside Project are designed to listen and connect you to next steps for support.

When Law Enforcement Becomes Necessary

There are situations where community accountability is not enough. Sexual assault, physical harm, theft and predatory behavior are matters for law enforcement regardless of the context in which they occurred.

Not every difficult experience points to wrongdoing. What matters is that you take your own experience seriously enough to look at it honestly. That is already an act of courage, and it is exactly the right place to start.

—Have questions about navigating psychedelics? Send them to Mary@Myco. Vision for future columns.

TAKE ME HOME

By Nathan Powers Engel Volkers Bend

Is Real Estate Becoming Too Digital?

Technology has transformed nearly every aspect of buying and selling a home — and in many ways, that’s a good thing. Buyers can browse hundreds of listings from their couch, tour homes virtually, sign contracts from their phone and receive an instant estimate of their home’s value with just a few clicks.

According to the National Association of REALTORS®, nearly 80% of REALTORS® now use electronic signatures and three out of four use social media as part of their business. Real estate has never been more connected — or more convenient. But as real estate becomes increasingly digital, I find myself asking a simple question: Are we making it easier to buy a home while making it harder to identify genuine expertise?

Visibility Isn’t the Same as Credibility

A polished website, engaging social media posts, professional videos, and a strong online presence all demonstrate that someone understands marketing — and marketing matters. Every seller wants their home presented beautifully. But marketing and representation are two very different skills. The ability to create an eye-catching Instagram reel doesn’t necessarily translate into pricing a home accurately, navigating a difficult inspection, negotiating multiple offers, or keeping a transaction together when unexpected challenges arise. Those skills come from experience, sound judgment and successfully guiding clients through real transactions — not simply creating content online.

Local Knowledge Can’t Be Downloaded

Technology has made information widely available. Anyone can pull neighborhood statistics, school ratings, average sale prices, or market trends within seconds. What it can’t provide is lived experience. It can’t tell you that traffic backs up every weekday on a

particular road at 3 p.m., that the neighborhood coffee shop has become the unofficial gathering place on Saturday mornings, or that a freight train rolls through before sunrise every Monday. Those insights are earned by spending years working in a community — not by searching a database. The internet can tell you everything about a house. Only a local expert can tell you what it’s actually like to live there.

Technology Should Support Relationships—Not Replace Them

The best real estate professionals embrace technology because it improves the client experience. It streamlines paperwork, enhances communication and gives buyers and sellers access to more information than ever before. Technology should enhance the relationship — not become a substitute for it. In today’s real estate market, visibility isn’t the same as credibility. The professionals who appear most often on your screen aren’t necessarily the ones best equipped to guide one of your biggest financial decisions.

The future of real estate will undoubtedly become even more digital, and that’s something to embrace. But no app, algorithm, or perfectly curated social media profile can replace local knowledge, meaningful relationships and trusted advice. Whether you’re buying, selling or investing, choose a real estate professional who puts your interests ahead of their online image. Look for someone who knows more than the market statistics — someone who knows the community, understands your goals, and is committed to helping you make the right decision. Because when one of life’s biggest financial decisions is on the line, genuine expertise will always matter more than digital visibility.

ASTROLOGY

By Rob Brezsny

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): Oak trees produce far more acorns than could ever grow into trees. Squirrels bury thousands and forget many of them, preparing the way for the next generation of forest. The trees succeed through strategic overproduction. I invite you to adopt their method, Leo. In the coming weeks, overproduce. Make more than you can track. Release more than you can manage. You don’t need to be perfect, just abundant. PS: This expansive capacity is yours to explore with delight and confidence, I guarantee it.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): In the 19th century, Virgo naturalist Alexander von Humboldt helped launch the modern science of ecology. While exploring South America, he came to a revolutionary conclusion that’s obvious to us now: Nature isn’t a collection of separate objects but an intricate web of relationships. Mountains shape the weather. The plants and pollinators rely on each other. Underground mycelial networks perform many services for the trees. I propose that you channel your inner Humboldt, Virgo. Shift your focus away from isolated problems and instead observe the larger systems. Solutions may be elusive when you’re bound to a narrow view but strikingly clear when you perceive the wider pattern. If you’d like to take bold action, rely on the spacious perspective.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): The coming months will be a favorable time to triple your devotion to the art of rowdy fun. I urge you to attend more revels and celebrations than usual, and always be ready to energize social functions with infusions of festive wit and gleeful conviviality. You will also have extra power to inject buoyant amusements into your intimate liaisons. Therefore, dear Libra, I designate you to be the Party Maestro of the Zodiac. I hope you will carry out your role with maximum exuberance, ingenuity, and joy.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): What if I told you that your most personal and potent dream can come true— but only through months of persistence, disciplined sacrifice, and stretches of bewildering but fascinating uncertainty? Would you reorder your priorities to chase it with every ounce of creativity you have? Or would you set it aside in favor of a safer and easier possibility? Between now and the end of October, I predict the moment will arrive to choose one path or the other.

clared our love.” Rather than feeling alarmed by this revelation, I invite you to find it thrilling as you apply it to your best allies. The fact that they contain mysteries you haven't yet plumbed means the relationships aren’t likely to grow stale. There are undiscovered depths in those you may think you know completely. My advice: Approach even your most familiar intimacies as ongoing discoveries.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): Do you ever fear or distrust your own desires? Are you suspicious of achieving “too much” success? Do you ever feel starved for hope, but belittle yourself for wanting it? Do you go emotionally blank in the face of possibilities that should thrill you? If so, the coming weeks could bring healing and a breakthrough. You will have a chance to perform a rare kind of exorcism—not of garish demons or foolish ghosts, but of the quiet defeatism and lack of faith that dull your brilliance. Seize this moment, dear Pisces! Purge the automatic doubts that the world has trained you to mistake for wisdom.

ARIES (March 21-April 19): Authentic love songs are rare. Much of contemporary music leans toward infatuation, sex, heartbreak, and fury, while few artists seem interested in singing unabashedly about unique expressions of tenderness and enduring devotion. In the months ahead, Aries, your inner life will be gloriously out of step with that trend. Your heart is poised to wake up in sometimes surprising ways. Even if you’re not a trained vocalist, you may feel regular urges to express your passion and adoration in song. If I could give you a gift, it might be a curated playlist packed with the most radiant love songs of the last 60 years, so you’d have a soundtrack worthy of the lush emotions that I suspect will bloom in you.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): Nobel Prize-winning Taurus physicist Richard Feynman kept a notebook titled “Things I Don't Know About.” When he came across a question he couldn't answer, he added it to the collection. I recommend a similar discipline for you now, Taurus, but with a twist. Keep a log of “Beautiful Mysteries I Don't Really Need to Solve.” Rejoice that not every paradox and puzzle needs resolution. Savor the fun fact that some riddles enrich your life precisely because they remain open-ended. Hooray for not knowing! My theory is that some of your finest qualities will flourish in the presence of productive uncertainty.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): On some occasions, you just don't have the power to act with impeccable integrity and do the totally right thing. Doing the partially right thing may, however, be a useful and compassionate option. I bet this will soon be helpful advice for you. Blunt truth: There are moments when the “perfect” ethical, emotional, or practical choice simply isn’t available: The timing is off, resources are thin, or someone else’s limits block the ideal outcome. In those situations, waiting around for the flawless solution is a kind of paralysis that keeps you stuck in guilt or indecision. Instead, you can aim for the best available good.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): In botany and gardening, there is a practice called “companion planting.” Certain plants thrive when grown near each other because they share nutrients, repel or distract pests, or improve soil and microclimate. Here’s an example: Indigenous peoples of the Americas planted the “Three Sisters” together: Corn gave beans a living trellis, beans added nitrogen to the soil, and squash shaded the ground to hold moisture and deter weeds. This principle may be useful for you to contemplate now, Capricorn. The people, tools, and influences you place near one another will influence your productivity and well-being. By blending complementary energies, your efforts will flourish without strain.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Author Alain de Botton observed that “the person we marry is always far more remarkable, frightening, and complex than we quite realized when we first de -

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): In the early days of radio broadcasting, engineers sometimes spoke of “tuning the receiver.” Even when a station was transmitting clearly, a listener might hear static until their radio dial was adjusted to exactly the right frequency. The message was present and clear; the challenge was homing in on it. There’s a similar phenomenon going on in your life, Gemini. Useful information, fun inspiration, and interesting possibilities may be circulating in your vicinity. But you will need to adjust your attention so you can actually receive it. To bring the signals into focus, listen differently. Or pose alternate questions. Or pay attention to sources you don't usually notice.

CANCER (June 21-July 22): Neuroscientists have found that remembering the past and imagining the future rely on many of the same brain networks. That overlap helps explain why vivid visualization may influence our emotions and behavior. When we repeatedly simulate alarming scenarios about what could conceivably happen, our brains treat them much like memories. This makes us prone to spotting “threats” in places that may be relatively safe. The good news is that the coming months will be an excellent time to retrain this habit, Cancerian. More than ever, your imagination can be a precision instrument you use to recalibrate yourself away from fear and toward possibility. Fantasize about wonderful possibilities with the same intensity that in the past you have dwelled on scary speculations.

Homework: Name an unnecessary taboo and how you would violate it if it didn't hurt anyone. https://tinyurl.com/s9s9s9s9

By Brendan Emmett Quigley

Pearl’s Puzzle

Puzzle

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

The highlighted letters read left to right and top to bottom will complete the quote:

I think it's interesting that rhymes with “

of

ANSWER TO LAST WEEK'S PUZZLES