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EDITOR’S NOTE:
Central Oregon has a wealth of local artists, musicians, actors and dancers. Our Spring Arts & Culture issue shines a spotlight on just a handful of the outstanding organizations inspiring young talent including the Cascade School of Music, Ponderosa Players and the Academie de Classique. Also, a look at the tradition of First Friday along with some musical acts that are throwbacks to the ‘70s and ‘90s.
In other news, a look at the new cocktail lounge Minnie’s at The Westman. Plus Think Wild has a powerful message about the dangers of lead in the environment. —Managing Editor Nic Moye
LIGHTMETER:
PRESENTED BY HARVEST MOON WOODWORKS
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CUSTOM. CABINE
Jesse Coronado
OPINION
With a Referendum on ODOT Funding, Oregon Is Damned If We Do…or Don’t
Over the past several weeks we have heard arguments both for and against the notion of putting a citizen-led repeal of new gas taxes on the May ballot, rather than a November one. Proponents said it gets the question of future funding for the Oregon Department of Transportation answered sooner. Opponents said it subverted the democratic process because opposition will not have enough time to make their case.
In an election year, and in a time when seeds are being sown at the federal level to increase distrust in electoral politics, we’re inclined to side with the opponents here. Oregon does not need any whiff of subversion.
Oregon lawmakers passed the bill that would move the matter to the May election Monday afternoon. Given the optics of this move, it was a mistake.
In 2025, the Oregon State Legislative Assembly failed to pass a bill addressing funding gaps for ODOT — gaps that are at least in part due to declining revenues from gas taxes, with more efficient gas-powered cars and more electric vehicles in the state. In the fall, Gov. Tina Kotek called lawmakers back for a special session to pass a less-extensive funding package that raised gas taxes 6 cents and increased vehicle registration fees. In the winter, members of the coalition No Tax Oregon gathered over 250,000 signatures in an effort to refer the notion of that gas-tax increase to voters. That initiative paused the implementation of the ODOT funding bill until voters can weigh in on the matter.
Over the last several months, both parties have been at work. The signature-gathering effort indicated to voters that they’d vote on the matter in November. Democrats, including Gov. Tina Kotek, have favored moving the vote to May, they say, to gain more clarity on future budgeting for ODOT, sooner rather than later. Her opponents think it’s a move to keep the issue off the November ballot, when the governor herself will be up for re-election.
Time is of the essence, Democrats said, because budget discussions for the coming year start in the summer and last eight months. And anyway, the date of the election wasn’t a big part of the antigas-tax messaging, they said; voters just wanted the opportunity to vote on the matter. So, they opted to get it over with.
But even if it were true that the timing of the vote wasn’t the primary reason Oregonians signed the petition to repeal the gas tax, Republicans sure are running with the notion that it was. Moving the matter to May is requiring some legal wrangling on the part of the Secretary of State, and you can be sure that opponents will point out every misstep and irregularity. From now through May — and likely beyond — voters less attuned to the finer points are going to hear an earful about how Democrats “change the rules after people voted on them,” and how when voters disagree with Salem, Salem changes the election rules.
We fear this is going to further erode voter trust in a moment in history when trust in government is at an alltime low. According to Pew Research, only 17% of Americans say they trust the government in Washington, D.C., to do what is right “just about always” (2%) or “most of the time” (15%).
If the signature-gathering effort is any indication, the new gas tax is likely to go down in flames. Voters appear weary of new taxes and fees — even while coastal roads wash out and lines at the Driver and Motor Vehicle Services offices around the state get longer. And that’s what is getting lost in the politics of the issue. Due to real progress on the climate front, through electric vehicles and efficiency, the state now has fewer dollars for road maintenance. Here in Central Oregon, where it is a regional pastime to wring our hands about unplowed roads, we find it ironic that people are signing petitions to make the plowing worse.
While it might have been better to “get it over with” and vote in May, we’re deeply concerned about the effects on voter trust. The merits of funding ODOT, unfortunately, will have to wait.
O Letters
LET’S NOT SPRING AHEAD
It’s time to change clocks again. Is there anything more idiotic, more wasteful, more unnecessary? The Sun and the Earth could care less how we define time. Leave the clocks alone!
—James Scott
HISTORY REPEATS ITSELF
Seeing the same comments on social media about the attack last night as I heard 25 years ago got me wondering. Americans as a people seem to be easily frightened into supporting any ill conceived military action if it’s sold to them as stopping an imminent threat. I also realized that major wars occur about 20 or so years apart, about every generation. The people around during the last war have forgotten about it and the new generation is motivated to fight it with slogans like, “This time it will be different.”
—Jeff Cole
THE IRONY OF GENERALISSIMO TRUMP
To understand this bizarre military adventure unfolding in the Middle East, we need to remember the background of the Commander in Chief who’s carrying the banner for our troops.
Let’s get the obvious irony out of the way — the guy used daddy’s money and connections to dodge the draft for Vietnam with phony bone spurs. Ending the war was the banner of his generation’s youth and many with rich families like his found ways to avoid sending their sons to war.
But that’s just the beginning. Let’s dig deeper. In both Presidential campaigns Trump promised to “End the endless wars.” Here’s a list of his promises:
• He said the U.S. should withdraw troops from Afghanistan after nearly 20 years of war, saying the mission had become nation-building instead of counter-terrorism.
• He criticized the Iraq War as a “mistake” and said the U.S. shouldn’t be policing the Middle East. Instead, he promised to defeat ISIS quickly and then leave
• Candidate Trump said U.S. troops should not remain to rebuild countries or referee civil wars
• He urged a focus on homeland defense and promised to avoid new large ground wars. In his campaign speeches and rallies he said:
• “I’ll defeat ISIS quickly and then leave;”
• “U.S. troops should not remain to rebuild countries or referee civil wars;”
HAVE SOMETHING
TO
SAY? Send your thoughts to editor@bendsource.com. Letters must be received by noon Friday for inclusion in the following week’s paper. Please limit letters to 250 words. Submission does not guarantee publication. Opinions printed here do not constitute an editorial endorsement of said opinions. Letter of the week receives $5 to Palate!
• “The U.S. spent trillions in the Middle East while American infrastructure and industry were neglected at home;”
• “We should have never been in Iraq;”
• “We will stop racing to topple foreign regimes that we know nothing about, that we shouldn’t be involved with;” and,
• “We’ve spent trillions and trillions of dollars overseas while our country has gone to hell.”
Perhaps the most profound quote is this: “I will never send our finest into battle unless necessary — and I mean absolutely necessary.”
Now, time and again, he’s re-defining the definition of “necessary” and embarking on military adventures around the world without the approval of Congress. The bottom line is this: Ironically, Trump campaigned on ending “endless wars” and now he’s busy starting new ones.
I have a simple theory that explains this ironic behavior — he’s living in the past.
Donald Trump was sent to the New York Military Academy at age 13. His father, a strict, results-oriented businessman, was worried about young Donald’s behavior and direction. He had become very energetic and defiant at school, was getting into fights and acting out. Trump was, by several accounts, testing limits in ways his father thought could lead to trouble in New York City.
Military academies in the 1950s and 60s were commonly used by families — especially affluent ones — as a corrective boarding school rather than a path to a military career. They used a cadet structure, uniforms, drills, and rank system to build discipline. Donald himself described his arrival there as “rough discipline and a bullying-type initiation.” He said his four years at NY Military Academy “straightened him out”
Trump is exhibiting significant signs of dementia, a disease that causes people to start living more and more in earlier decades of their past. This leads me to the obvious explanation for the aggressive military behavior: he’s simply living in the past and playing with toy soldiers.
This is not going to get better. This demented, aggressive child-President has his finger on the red button. If we don’t stop him now he could kill us all.
—Louis Capozzi
BEND’S PROPOSED NATURAL GAS APPLIANCE FEE
I am a retired professor from Cal Poly, San Luis Obipso, California. I taught air quality and environmental science in the civil and environmental engineering dept. I now live in Bend in the Larkspur neighborhood. For the record, we have recently retrofitted our 1989 house with an electric heat pump HVAC, and electric heat pump water heater system. Both systems will pay for themselves within 3 - 5 years (depending on changes in electricity prices).
I have looked at the City of Bend’s formula for the proposed natural gas appliance fee. It only considers carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions from combustion. This is part of the concern with gas appliances, but not all. Recent studies showed that all natural gas appliances leak methane. Methane is about 80 times more potent than CO2, although it has a shorter half-life in the atmosphere.
Key Findings on Methane Leaks from Appliances per Stanford and others (e.g. UC Davis):
Total Impact: Residential gas stoves release 30,000 tons of methane annually in the U.S.
Leakage Rate: About 1% of total gas consumed by stoves leaks unburned, which is higher than previously estimated.
When Leaks Occur: The majority of leaks (over 75%) happen when the stove is not in use, attributed to issues like loose fittings or permeation.
Water Heaters: Natural gas water heaters also contribute significant, though less frequently measured, methane leakage, with one study suggesting they leak around 91,000 tons annually in the U.S
This leakage has a climate impact comparable to the annual CO2 tailpipe emissions of 500,000 gasoline-powered cars. Because methane is a highly potent greenhouse gas — more than 80 times more potent than CO2 over a 20-year period — these leaks represent a significant, overlooked source of climate-warming pollution. I believe the Bend ordinance should include methane leaks in the calculations of emissions for gas-fired appliances and cook tops.
—David Morrow
Letter of the Week:
David, thanks for sharing your knowledge. As letter of the week, you can stop by the Source office at NW Georgia & Bond Street. for a gift card to Palate coffee.
—Managing Editor Nic Moye
Multiple Rescues in One Day
Search and rescue crews responded to three separate incidents in a single day on Saturday, Feb. 28. The Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office Search and Rescue Unit responded to a single female hiker from Bend who became stranded in icy snow conditions below Lewis Glacier on South Sister around 3pm. Three SAR volunteers were able to escort her toward Devils Lake then back to her vehicle. An hour later, at 4pm, an injured Nordic skier called for help between Todd Lake and Dutchman Flat Sno-Park. Members from the Mt. Bachelor Ski Patrol were able to transport the person on a snowmobile back to the parking lot. Shortly after that, at 4:21pm, SAR assisted Bend Fire & Rescue with an injured dirt bike rider from Bend who crashed on Ford Road, north of Pictograph Cave outside the China Hat closure boundary.
SE Bend Roundtable
The City of Bend is hosting a community meeting focused on the future of southeast Bend. Topics will include growth, infrastructure projects and more. The roundtable is Thursday, March 12 from 5:30-7:30pm at the Larkspur Community Center on SE Reed Market Road. The meeting will begin with a staff presentation followed by a Q&A with the public. It will conclude with a roundtable discussion with representatives from the Old Farm, Larkspur and Southeast Bend neighborhood districts.
—Nic Moye
City Council Moves Home Hardening Code to a Vote, Discusses Defensible Space Code
Bend may soon adopt an urban fire prevention code similar to those already in place in Ashland and Sisters
By Jesse Coronado
Oregon cities including Ashland and Sisters have recently adopted new home hardening requirements in their development codes, and it appears that Bend may soon follow suit.
On Feb. 25, the Bend City Council moved a home hardening code proposal forward for an April 1 vote, with May 15 discussed as the proposed effective date.
The proposed requirements, which fall under Oregon Residential Specialty code Section R327, would mean new homes need to be built with building standards thought to mitigate the risk of urban fires. Although the potential effective date is only two months away, city officials say the growing concern over urban fires is one of the reasons for the recent push.
“The risk is everywhere in Bend. It will just differ with different vegetation,” said Melissa Steele, deputy fire marshal of Wildfire Preparedness for Bend Fire & Rescue. “Just by thinking, ‘I live in the center of town, I don’t have a risk,’ is not true.”
According to Steele, the Fire Marshal saw a “huge” increase of wildfire home risk assessments in 2025. In wildfire home risk assessments, a representative from the Fire Marshal provides homeowners with information and tips on how to prevent fires from starting on their property.
“The timing makes me nervous,” City Councilor Gina Franzosa said at a Feb. 25 meeting. “This feels like a little bit of a surprise to me, and I imagine it’s a big surprise to builders.”
Franzosa was the only councilor who voted for the code to apply for urban areas only.
The City Council ultimately determined to bring the topic back for a vote on April 1 with a tentative effective date of May 15.
citations for violations. Though, Senior Policy Analyst Sarah Hutson proposed a grace period where they focus on educating the public before enforcing a new code. Hutson proposed at least one year of focusing on education.
—The
number of First Fridays Clementine Urban Mercantile has participated in.
“Things can be so fast that if you’re not thinking two moves or two counts ahead the whole time, you’re never going to catch up.”
—Dancer Hailey Crum
The number of typical assessments within city limits and rural Deschutes county, which Steele says are around 115 per year, increased last year to over 1,000.
Steele claims the increase comes after the 2024 fires that ravaged Los Angeles, California, when more homeowners became concerned about wildfire near their own homes.
Home-hardening can be defined as addressing or altering the most fire-prone areas of a home or building to make them resistant to embers and subsequent fires.
The new code would require new residential developers and builders to ensure they have the proper roofing material, window glazing and up-to-code ventilation openings and coverings.
Building cost increases, although “difficult to measure,” are expected to increase 2 to 3%. Those found to be in violation of the code might encounter higher insurance premiums to cover their homes.
Another key topic at the meeting was the possibility of change coming to defensible space codes. Steele emphasized the role and importance of defensible space, as it is an area that can increase or decrease the flammability of a home, depending on how it is kept.
“This is important because 90% of ignitions from wildfires are embers,” Steele says. “Embers can travel up to 3 miles... Embers can still land on your flammable bush right next to your home and start your home on fire.”
Under the code discussed, the first 5 feet around a person’s home would be strictly regulated to prevent flames from reaching homes.
The City’s current defensible space code includes a minimum standard for vegetation management, fuel modification and defensible space maintenance. In May, councilors plan to consider adopting regulations on fencing, restrictions on flammable plants and the way the code will be applied.
If the City Council approves an update to the defensible space code, it could mean residents would receive
According to Bend Community Relations Manager Jacob Larsen, current code enforcement is complaint-based. Someone has to make a complaint to the city about violations for code to be enforced.
“Future enforcement strategies will be part of the larger future discussion with Council about defensible space provisions,” Larson said.
“It’s not a one-and-done,” Hutson says. “Every year folks need to be maintaining the vegetation and other things on their property.”
At the Feb. 25 meeting, councilors also discussed long-term implications for people’s pocketbooks.
“I don’t have $30,000 sitting around to do all that right now and most people in Bend don’t, so I want us to be realistic,” Franzosa said.
Hutson said that ideally to make the initiative work there will need to be a collaborative effort between neighbors and an “understanding that they share” a risk of urban fires.
“The fire department, private and public organizations, insurance companies, the health and safety professionals as well... these organizations, all of us, should consider themselves to be one team with one mission and that is to reduce the risk of urban wildfire,” Hutson said.
Ryunosuke Kikuno/Unsplash
The Feasibility of Building a Large Arena in Bend A Bend advisory board heard the first results of an initial study on building a large indoor, multi-purpose venue
By Nic Moye
Whether the city of Bend needs and could sustain a large public assembly venue that could hold up to 2,000 people is at the heart ofa new study presented Monday, March 2 to the Bend Economic Development Advisory Board. Visit Bend hired CSL Consulting for the study, indicating that it fits its overall mission to support the community in seeking a sustainable future. Currently, about 68% of the lodging tax collected in the city goes into the City of Bend’s general reserve. Visit Bend receives the rest to use for marketing the area to tourists.
John Kaatz of CSL and his team looked at 20 cities in the U.S. with a similar population as Bend and found that only Bend and San Luis Obispo, California, did not have any dedicated, municipally owned event facility. Most cities had some version of a convention, performing arts, club hall or multipurpose center with a capacity to hold more than 1,000 people.
CSL consulted more than 50 local stakeholders, (including Aaron Switzer, publisher of the Source and owner of a local events company). He found that there’s great interest in having a space to hold large indoor events that are impacted by wildfire smoke or extreme weather. Kaatz presented a list of 120 examples of what a large venue could be used for, including graduations, concerts, youth sports, conventions, cultural events, robotics and hobbyist events. The agency also interviewed managers of other venues in the Pacific Northwest to understand the desirability and characteristics needed for a combined event space.
Kaatz said, based on feedback, creating a new venue would need to fit within existing planning, such as the urban renewal district plan, ongoing efforts to create a Central Oregon Center for the Arts, fairgrounds expansion plans and discussions by the Bend Park and Recreation District about an indoor ice facility or athletic center. The study
indicated that the goal of creating a new multi-purpose venue should be to meet the needs of a growing community, create new demand and generate revenue, without competing with existing music and convention venues.
The Deschutes County Fairgrounds in Redmond has 86,500 square feet of exhibit space and 6,200 square feet of meeting space. Sunriver Resort has 18,000 square feet of exhibit space, including 6,900 in meeting space and 14,300 in ballroom space. The Riverhouse Lodge has 13,700 square feet of exhibit space, 4,000 square feet of meeting space and 16,600 square feet of ballroom space.
Kaatz said general requirements to consider for a building a large venue would include flat floor space, retractable seating capabilities, breakout meeting spaces, smaller multi-use space, fixed stage capabilities, dressing or locker rooms, unique locally inspired design elements, parking and a large hotel with approximately 225 rooms that’s next to or within close walking distance to the venue.
Challenges to sustaining a venue of this size, Kaatz said, include difficulty driving to Bend during the winter, a limited population base to draw from east of Bend, strong competition from other regional venues in larger cities and a desire to minimize impact on other local venues.
Kaatz said, “We’re in the early, early stages for what could be something very vibrant and exciting for Bend down the road.”
Many more questions need to be answered such as location, cost, who would operate it and whether it could be a private/ public partnership. Visit Bend says it may be possible to use funds from the transient room tax. There would also need to be public engagement.
The study presented Monday is incomplete. CSL will present a more comprehensive report, which is expected to include financial aspects, to the Bend City Council on April 22.
Classified Staff at Central Oregon Community College Could Strike for the First Time
The
college says it’s proposed a significant multi-year compensation increase
By Nic Moye
The clock is counting down to what could be the first-ever strike of classified union workers at Central Oregon Community College. At an impasse over contract negotiations, the union started a 30-day cool-down period on Feb. 23. After that, the union could vote to authorize a strike at any time, with a 10-day notice. Contract negotiations have been underway since February 2025.
Classified staff includes college counselors, administrative assistants, custodians, library assistants and food service workers, totaling 121 employees. The union says the lowest wage for a member is currently $18.91/hour. It wants to bump that to $27.89/ hour by the end of the contract, which it considers a living wage. They want other wages to increase proportionally.
The college disputes that, stating in a news release that it has proposed eliminating the lowest pay rate for each position and removing the current requirement that new employees can only be hired at steps 1-3, which would raise the entry level wage for all bargaining unit positions. COCC also says that no classified employees are currently earning $18.91 per hour. The lowest rate is $19.68, it said, with the top hourly rate currently at $37.44.
The union claims the average classified worker’s salary has increased by 10% since 2023, while the average administrator’s salary has grown 26% in the same time period. The union alleges that the college board is aggressively growing its reserves instead of spending it on salaries.
In a news release, COCC President Greg Pereira said, “The College has proposed a significant multi-year compensation increase of 18.54% [compounded] over three years, or about $1.5 million. The union’s proposal represents a 55.42% [compounded] increase over that same period, totaling approximately $4.8 million. As a public institution, we must balance compensation with long-term financial stability. We remain committed to reaching an agreement that is financially sustainable and supports the long-term health of the College, as well as affordability for our students.”
In November, the Source reported that COCC anticipates an increase in expenditures due to construction projects at campuses in Redmond and Madras, as well as deferred maintenance needs. Other expenses may be incurred from tariffs and rising interest rates. In 2024 the college adopted a policy that its general fund reserve be a minimum of 29%, which is just over three months of operating expenses. COCC says,
“Current projections show reserves below that target, at 14.81% for 2025—26, or less than two months of operating resources.”
Funding comes from the federal and state government, county taxes, tuition and fees, COCC’s Board Chair Erica Skatvold said.
“Over 80% of the college’s expenses are personnel related.”
Since 2021, tuition has accounted for about 33% of the general fund revenue. Discussions about whether tuition will be raised for the 2026-27 academic year are ongoing and usually announced at the April board meeting.
Skatvold says a reserve is needed to ensure the college can remain open during unexpected events. “Our sudden loss of $3 million in federal funding last year was supplemented by the reserve fund so that the College operations and projects could continue to run uninterrupted… we do not anticipate being able to return the fund back to its board-approved size for many years. This is a concern for us as we always want to ensure that the College can continue to run and pay employees in uncertain times.”
“During the cooling-off period we are able and willing to continue mediation with the mediator and the CACOCC/OEA union,” COCC’s Director of Marketing and Public Relations Lucas Alberg told the Source. “We anticipate some scheduled mediation sessions in March to continue to work toward agreement on the collective bargaining agreement.”
Meanwhile, 2,300 union workers at Portland Community College authorized a potential first strike as soon as March 10. If that happens, it would be the first-ever strike at a community college in Oregon, according to Portland news outlets. If COCC workers follow suit, they could be on strike by early April.
Central Oregon Community College
RN
REDMOND NEWS
W‘Much Ado About Nothing’
Meadow Sky Productions’ latest play is being performed in Redmond
By Nic Moye
illiam Shakespeare wrote his romantic comedy, “Much Ado About Nothing,” in 1598. Since then, it’s undergone many adaptations, including a Meadow Sky Productions which is opening this month at the High Desert Music Hall in Redmond.
“We’ve set the story in a different world than originally written, creating a fantasy world and setting inspired by adventure fantasy classics like “The Lord of the Rings” and “The Princess Bride,” Director David Purkey told the Source. The cast of 15 ranges in age from 12 to the 60s.
“There are two main romantic couples, a couple of mentor/ruler figures, and various comedic and supporting characters,” Purkey says. “Much Ado” is, in my opinion, the perfect blend of comedy and drama.”
It’s a production he’s wanted to do since he founded Meadow Sky Productions in 2024. “We were able to watch a production of “Much Ado About Nothing” at the Globe Theater in London when we were just starting our theater company endeavors, which was extra special for my wife Anna who has treasured the story of “Much Ado” for much longer than I. I was incredibly inspired by that production and have been hoping to present that story with our company since then.”
Meadow Sky Productions doesn’t have a permanent home but often performs at the High Desert Music Hall in Redmond, which is an old, converted church. “The stage reflects that and makes for some interesting staging with entrances in unexpected places,” Purkey says.
The show, which has multiple dates and times scheduled, is two hours with a short intermission. Money raised from the $30 tickets go toward paying the actors and production team as well as covering costs for costumes, lighting, props, venue rent, insurance and other expenses. Purkey says the company recently accomplished a major goal.
“We did have our first profitable show in December, including paying our actors, which was a huge milestone!”
Meadow Sky Productions will hold auditions in late April for its next play, “The Play that Goes Wrong” by Henry Lewis, Jonathan Sayer, and Henry Shields, which will be performed in August. “We especially like stories that have messages of hope and of joy but also tell aspects of the human experience and struggle,” Purkey says.
“Much Ado About Nothing” March 13-15, 20-22 2pm & 7pm High Desert Music Hall 818 SW Forest Ave, Redmond meadowskyproductions.com/ $30
3/8 – 3/10
TRIVIA SUNDAY WITH UKB TRIVIA AT INITIATIVE BREWING/ THE HUB IN REDMOND TRIVIA-TOPIA
Team up to win great prizes. Enjoy great food, community, brews and more. Bring good vibes, a pen, and a healthy amount of competitiveness. 4-6pm at Initiative Brewing- The Hub. 424 NW Fifth St., Redmond. Free.
TUESDAY 3/10
TRIVIA (&TACO) TUESDAYS TACOS, TRIVIA, AND TOOTLES 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. 6:30pm at Elements Public House. 1857 NW Sixth St., Redmond. Free.
This version of the play is set in a fantasy world inspired by classics like "The Lord of the Rings" and "The Princess Bride."
Meadow Sky Productions
Inspiring a New Generation of Musicians
Cascade School of Music Teaches Life Lessons
By Nic Moye
The first thing you notice when walking into the Cascade School of Music at the corner of NE Third Street is a symphony of strings, piano, vocals and a hint of drums float overhead in an odd swirl of music as dozens of students in private rooms take lessons. The nonprofit began offering music classes in the summer of 2002. Today, there are 25 teachers instructing 497 students in private lessons and classes. The youngest is age one. The oldest is 81. The school offers lessons in piano, voice, flute, acoustic and electric guitar, drums, violin, fiddle, viola, cello, upright bass, electric bass, ukulele, tin whistle, mandolin, harp, Irish fiddle and folk singing.
Zola St. Germain, a 17-year-old Caldera High School student, is taking weekly half-hour violin lessons from Sharon Schwatka. Like many students, music is a big part of her life. “I’m in orchestra at school and I’m in COYO (Central Oregon Youth Orchestra) and I have my own solo pieces. I just finished honors orchestra.” She wants to attend a college with a strong music program.
As dedicated as Germain is, Schwatka wants her to continue exploring music. “I’m just trying to get her exposed to anything from Irish fiddle to American blues. I really feel like the students need to see it all and not make a decision on anything until you’ve seen it all.”
The Cascade School of Music is an independent, year-round school that believes human potential and connection are more fully realized through a lifelong engagement with music that can begin with toddlers. The school has a Kindermusik program for tots ages one to five. It’s designed to improve coordination, brain and language development, and build confidence and social skills.
The school also offers weekly private lessons from 30 to 60 minutes starting at $194. About 20% of the students receive scholarships funded by donations. The Cascade School of Music also offers ensemble and band classes.
Eleven-year-old Bodhi Jaber has a passion for drums. During a recent lesson, he was practicing a Guns N’ Roses song. Teacher Meshem Jackson says, “Taking music is something that really activates the entire brain in so many ways. It teaches problem solving, teaches creativity and it’s a different language you’re learning, and it’s a universal language.”
There are also permormance opportunities through band programs.
“In the percussion department, we have what’s called drum days, where it’s just nothing but drummers and percussionists,” Jackson explains.
Getting into a band class can be competitive. “There’s an audition process because we believe that’s a good thing to learn to do,” says the school’s Executive Director, Robert Lambeth. He says learning how to prepare for an audition will benefit students trying to get into college programs.
Cillian Malone, 14, wants to be a rock star. He plays bass guitar and started his own band with two friends. His dream is to tour professionally one day. “I’ve been interested in the fivestring bass recently and my dad’s like, ‘I’m not just gonna buy you one.’ So, he said I have to earn it. I have to write a five-part symphony with a bunch of different components, and I have to write it on sheet music.”
Malone’s teacher, Seth Burrows, says, “I think music is the anti-screen. I feel like it teaches them all kinds of life skills that they might not ordinarily learn but teach you how to deal with frustration. It teaches you how to break huge problems down into little pieces and work on that thing and then gradually increase your capacity to do the whole thing.” The teachers, 80% of which have been with the school for six years or more, are as impressive as the students. Lambeth explains, “Our mission is to make music education accessible and encourage a lifelong engagement with music.”
Zola St. Germain has been playing violin since age six.
Eleven-year-old Bodhi Jaber is learning a song from Guns N’ Roses.
First Friday Fun!
The monthly event celebrates customer appreciation and local artists
By Nic Moye
The boutique store, Clementine Urban Mercantile, on NW Wall Street in downtown Bend, held its grand opening on the First Friday of November 2015. “We have been open for all of them since. That is 122 First Fridays!” owner Gwen Whitten told the Source.
First Friday in downtown Bend started more than 20 years ago as a way to highlight local art galleries, but over the years it’s changed. “First Friday has evolved into a broader community event that still honors art, but also supports local businesses, makers, musicians, nonprofits and experiential activations,” says Rachel O’Rourke, executive director of the Downtown Bend Business Association. “At its core, the “why” has always remained the same: to create connection, foot traffic, and energy in downtown Bend.” The event is held on the first Friday of each month from 5 to 8pm.
The DBBA creates a theme for each month. The First Friday on March 6 is being called “Makers Mayhem” which is described as a celebration of local makers, creators and artisans. “The “mayhem” isn’t chaos so much as creative energy: a mix of mediums, styles, and experiences happening simultaneously throughout downtown,” O’Rourke explains. She says, on average, between 15 to 25 businesses participate during First Fridays in the fall and winter months, but that increases to as many as 40 between April and September and they each participate differently.
Whitten says she invites artists to display their work in the courtyard outside their store and sometimes hosts musicians. Inside, she collects donations for the Kid Center. “We feel very strongly that there is a real value for customers in seeing the actual owners giving back to the community and that is based on the feedback we receive,” Whitten says. “My husband Chris is always our bartender, and he and I create new cocktail inventions with a theme each First Friday.”
Walking around the February event in downtown Bend, one business offered Brown Bag popcorn. Others offered various drink options.
One store made space for an artist who designed custom painted snowboards and other items while another store featured a jewelry maker. There were three street musicians and musical groups performing on Wall Street and Minnesota Avenue while four people from a theatrical group dressed in costume promoting a play. The stores that were open were packed. The vibe felt like a hang with friends.
In the Old Mill District about nine galleries and shops participate in First Friday which is held from 3-6pm. Assistant Marketing Director, Amanda Bird-Zimmerman, says, “We are home to three official art studios and galleries, which are home to more than 20 local artists… Folks can visit their locations and see the artists working in real time as well as peruse pieces to purchase and take home. Tumalo Art Co. is an artist collective that opens a new exhibit every First Friday Art Walk.”
Va Piano Vineyards Wine and Champagne Bar supplies wine during the event while Savory Spice provides dips and chips. Bird-Zimmerman says between 4,000 to 7,500 people attend the Old Mill First Friday Art Walks, depending on the time of year.
“The number of talented artists in Bend is nothing short of inspiring,” she says. “We’re also big supporters of the Downtown Art Walk and that is why ours starts at 3pm and ends around 6pm. The hope is that folks who enjoy art and mingling with creatives can attend both. That, and in the summertime the walk from the Old Mill District to Downtown is delightful along the river!”
In downtown Bend, Whitten says July, August, September and December are the busiest months. She and her husband have only missed a few First Fridays over the years. “We think it is really important that we are there thanking our customers and showing them that we appreciate their business. Plus, it is just a lot of fun!”
“First Friday is meant to be approachable and flexible,” O’Rourke says. “You don’t have to ‘do it all.’ You can pop into one business or wander for hours. Every month looks a little different, and that’s part of the charm.”
Gwen Shoemaker Photography
Young Dancers Showcase Strength and Toughness in Addition to Artistry and Grace
Local elite dance group gives back to the community with its artistic contemporary performances
By Dallas Finn Calvert
It’s a chilly night and there’s a sheen of frost on the pavement outside Academie de Ballet Classique in Northeast Bend. But inside the warm and brightly lit studio space in Wagner Mall, a small group of dancers are anything but cold as they’re put through their paces in something Lindsey Clements calls “choreo corner.”
Clements, the instructor and choreographer for the elite modern performance group at “ABC,” as it’s known to its students and instructors, demonstrates a quick “snippet of choreography” that the eight young women who comprise the group recreate. Over the course of 20 minutes, they build snippet upon snip pet until they have linked together a small perfor mance that’s as artistic as it appears exhausting, physically and mentally.
“I’ve always referred to it as an athletic art, but many of the dancers at our studio will refer to it as a sport,” says Lydia Chance, 18, a senior at Summit High School who has studied at ABC since she was 4. “Not only are you having to have the endurance and the grace and the artistry, but then also just the muscle memory and the mental memory, and then the counting and staying with everybody.
“You always have to be one step ahead,” says Hailey Crum, 18, one of two high school seniors in the elite performance group. “Things can be so fast that if you’re not thinking two moves or two counts ahead the whole time, you’re never going to catch up.
“That’s what I think makes it so different from other sports is that so many other sports have a certain play or a certain strategy for each moment, but not dance,” adds Crum, who’ll graduate from Mountain View High School this June."
Clements, who holds a bachelor’s degree in dance from Point Park University in Pittsburgh, said she’s always “amazed” at the athleticism of dancers. She moved to Bend after college to be closer to family and has been teaching since 2020 at ABC, which is owned by Valerie Holgers, who’s been teaching dance for 60 years. At ABC, students follow a curriculum set forth by the Royal Academy of Dance. Dancers proceed through the stages of ballet from beginner through the highest levels, testing into each level in front of independent adjudicators. Most of the dancers in the ABC elite performance group are at or near the highest level offered through RAD. And while it’s easy to observe the beauty and artistry as they dance, there’s also bona fide athleticism and strength in display, too.
“There’s really nothing like it. There are very few sports where you have to think about the very tips of your fingers all the way through to the bottom of your toes,” says Clements. “You’re not just there to go from point A to point B, but you have to go from point A to point B as gracefully and strong as you can while you’re also performing, while you’re listening to the music, while doing it at a particular time. That’s not a very common thing for most sports, to have to kind of think about all of those things all at once.”
As the ABC dancers take a quick water break, they laugh and joke amongst themselves, a strong bond obviously run ning through the group. Many of them have danced together since they were little girls.
“These are girls I probably wouldn’t have met through school or any other experi ence, but I’m best friends with them, and that’s some thing I’m grateful for,” says Chance, who along with Crum is heading into her final performances with ABC, as both will head to college next fall. Chance plans to major in forestry or environmental science at Oregon State University in Corvallis, while Crum is still deciding between San Diego State University and the University of Arizona. She plans to major in journalism. The two will cap off their time at the studio by dancing the leads in ABC’s production of the “Wizard of Oz” in June, a show that’s open to the public. Chance will perform the role of Dorothy and Crum the role of Wicked Witch of the West.
“As seniors, it’s really fun for them to get to play those lead roles,” Clements said. “That’ll be their last performance with the studio. It’s always a loss when we lose our leaders. They’re incredible role models. We’ll get new leaders, but they’re such unique people and you can never replace that. I will miss them so much.
Prior to the “Wizard of Oz,” the elite group will perform in the Bend Dance Project at the Tower Theatre in May.
Typically, the elite group does at least five performances a year, Clements said, usually for nonprofits or assisted-living facilities.
“I’m really intentional with picking something that I think will provide a service to the community and to the dancers who get to be a part of it,” said Clements, who is the operations manager at Bethlehem Inn. “I’ve seen just how powerful it is when people have tools that they can use to move through whatever situation they’re in. For me to be able to use dance, and for the dancers that I get to teach, I think it just provides even more meaning. It’s more than just something beauti ful to watch. It becomes some thing special that people can use to heal or to find joy or to connect with people.”
Anna Hattemer, guest ser vices coordinator and volunteer manager for the Ronald McDonald House, which provides housing, programming and support for families who have children receiving medical care at
St. Charles and elsewhere in Central Oregon, said families staying at there are always appreciative of the ABC troupe’s uplifting performances.
“”Every year, it’s been delightful to have them come by,” Hattemer said. “They do a couple different performances for us, and then this past year they passed out cards to some families that were very heartwarming. Most of the families bring their kiddos (from the hospital) with them, and they’re always super interested and intrigued, and then afterwards, you see the little kids doing ballet tricks themselves.”
For Crum, the studio’s focus on giving back to the community is a message she’s taken to heart. At MVHS, she’s the social media coordinator for the student Interact Club, a community-service group, and she also is helping to get the National Honor Society back up and running. She said it’s “bittersweet” to think about not dancing regularly at ABC, but that she’ll carry forward the lessons, both in dance and life, that she’s learned there, and hopes to instill them in other young dancers.
“It’s very interesting because it’s been a part of my whole life,” said Crum. “I’m ready for new things, but it’s strange because there will be times when I don’t dance as much, but I still know it’s always there. It’s definitely very bittersweet... But I love to teach, and I love to choreograph. So, even if I don’t necessarily continue dancing myself, I think I want to help others through teaching and choreographing wherever I do end up.”
Members of the elite modern performance group at Academie de Ballet Classique before a performance last summer.
Dancing photos by Dallas Finn Calvert, Group photo courtesy of Academie de Ballet Classique
Ponderosa Players Offers a Professional Acting Stage for Central Oregon Youth
Dash and Kisky Holwerda’s youth theatre company aims to create a professional and inclusive educational experience for young actors
By Dallas Finn Calvert
Maddie Palombo started acting and performing in plays as a youngster but says she didn’t start taking it seriously until high school and definitely never thought she’d pursue a career as a drama teacher. But two years of studying with local theatre power couple, Kisky and Dash Holwerda, gave her a glimpse into a future she now wants to shape for herself.
“It wasn’t something I had considered at all before working with them, but I was just so inspired by the impact that I saw them have on people,” says Palombo, 18, from her dorm room at Suffolk University, in downtown Boston, where she’s a freshman majoring in theatre.
“They had a huge impact on me. "
Palombo, a 2025 graduate of Redmond Proficiency Academy, worked with the Holwerdas’ Ponderosa Players youth theatre company from the time of its inception in 2023 until she left for Boston last summer.
“I was the first-ever Ponderosa Player student. That’s my claim to fame. I brag about it a lot,” says Palombo with a chuckle. “I just thought they were the sweetest people, and I had to get in,” she recalls. “I think I’m a better person for what I got out of their classes. Not only did I gain a lot of technical and performance skills, I feel confident presenting myself in a professional or college-level audition... It’s a safe space to make mistakes and to try and fail and try again. I think even if theatre is not something a kid’s going to pursue long-term, what you can get out of
one class is life-changing — the confidence, the social skills, and the ability to present yourself. ”
Sergio Carrillo, 18, agrees. The Caldera High School senior got into theatre in the fourth grade, after his mom enrolled him in karate class. The karate instructor also happened to teach drama, noticed raw talent in the boy, and encouraged Carrillo’s mom to sign him up for theatre.
“Last year, I saw that they [Ponderosa Players] were doing a dream show of mine, which is ‘Ride The Cyclone,’” he recalls. “I knew I wanted to audition for it.”
He nabbed the role of Noel in the dark comedy musical about six members of a Canadian high-school choir who die in a roller-coaster accident and find themselves in limbo, where Karnak, a mechanical fortune teller, reveals he’ll resurrect one of them. The teens each perform a unique musical number to try and convince him they’re the one to bring back to life. The numbers reveal their personalities, dreams, and regrets, and the evocative, poignant performances explored themes of life and death.
“I just really related to the characters and that it covered topics about teens like issues with self-esteem or fears for their future, or just behaviors, where they don’t really know why they’re doing stuff, but they just do it anyway. It just really spoke to me deeply,” said Carrillo, who’s subsequently performed in two other mainstage productions for Ponderosa Players and plans to
study drama in college while also pursuing professional auditions, likely in Boston, Los Angeles, or New York.
The production of “Ride The Cyclone” is also what drew Aurora Dixon, 17, a junior at Bend High School, to the company.
“That was the first one I ever did with them, and I really just love that musical. I was really excited to do it,” said Dixon, who played the character of Jane Doe. Dixon said the way in which the Holwerdas approached material helped shape and grow her as an actor.
“I really love their artistic direction. They always make everything very artistic and they take liberties to make things more interesting and do their own spin and play on things that I find really interesting,” said Dixon, who plans to pursue theatre in college as well as study biology.
Kisky says that providing a professional, inclusive space for Central Oregon youth to explore theatre, drama and life was the goal of Ponderosa Players, which conducts year-round classes and produces live dramatic and musical productions for youth ages 7 to 18.
“We thought there was sort of a gap in what was offered for youth theater arts in Central Oregon,” Kisky said. “There’s a lot of sign-up based programs, but we thought there was a need and a desire for students who want more, who want to pursue theater either as a career or they want to do it in college, or if it’s just something that they take really seriously, you know, kind of like club soccer, and they want a more heightened experience, a more pre-professional experience. That’s what we’re able to offer.”
In June, they’ll produce “Once Upon A Mattress.” Also on tap are “The Phantom Toll Booth,”
“Dear Evan Hansen,” “Romeo and Juliet,” and “Into The Woods.”
Additionally, they’re offering a slate of classes, including Acting 1, which runs March 5-April 20 for ages 11-14; Ready, Set…Improve! March 7-May 2 for ages 10-14; and Acting Basics for ages 7-10 from March 7-May 2.
They’ll also present “Too Darn Hot!” for a third season in July at Tower Theatre.
“The kids have three weeks to learn anywhere from 12 to 15 musical numbers with choreography, and learn other harmonies, and learn all the blocking and their lines. Then they get to perform it. It’s a blast,” says Kisky.
Ponderosa Players classes are open to all youth, while youth must audition for the mainstage productions, for which the Holwerdas bring in professional actors to guide them.
Kisky, 34, graduated from Kenyon College with a bachelor’s degree in drama, then studied at conservatories in the U.S. and London, before moving to New York. She moved to Bend in 2021.
The couple met in 2022, when Kisky acted in, and Dash was working the crew for, “Love, Loss, and What I Wore” with Bend’s Ellipse Theater Community. The couple began dating, started Ponderosa Players in 2023, working in a variety of spaces and out of their home. They got married last July, opened their new theatre space in August, and have just found out they’re expecting their first child this August.
Kisky is completing her degree so she can be a middle-school math teacher, while Dash works for Realms Middle School as an educational assistant.
In its third season, the company is expanding. The company’s new theatre space is in the same complex as Blockbuster and School of Rock.
“From our perspective, it just gets higher and higher in terms of the students that we’re getting," Dash said. "By the time we got to this show (“Spring Awakening”), we were floored by the way they showed up to auditions and how prepared they were. There’s just a lot of raw talent here.”
Bend couple Dash, left, and Kisky Holwerda operate Ponderosa Players, a youth theatre company.
Aurora Dixon, center, a Bend High School junior, performs with Ponderosa Players.
Photos by Brooklyn Wagner
Spring Arts & Culture Events
A roundup of fun things to do
Curated by Nic Moye
Categories
Sat, Mar 14
Music Art Reading Dance Film (Unmarked - Theatre and Talks)
Seeds of Abundance: Limits, Loss & Regeneration through April at Scalehouse Collaborative for the Arts, Bend
High Desert Art League Member Show through March at Premiere Property Group, Bend
Soul of the Land: Quilts by June Jaeger at Belknap Exhibit Center through March 21, Prineville
“Much Ado About Nothing” at High Desert Music Hall, Redmond
Adult Book Fair & Fantasy Author Event at New Basin Distilling, Madras
The Selena Experience at Tower Theatre, Bend
Sun, Mar 15
“Much Ado About Nothing” at High Desert Music Hall, Redmond
Mon, Mar 16
The Glenn Miller Orchestra at Tower Theatre, Bend
Tue, Mar 17
Storyteller Jared Anderson & Host Ben Paulus at Roundabout Books, Bend
Thu, Mar 19
The Silver State by Gabriel Urza in conversation with Karla Nash at Roundabout Books, Bend
Fri, Mar 20
“The 39 Steps” at Cascades Theatrical Co., Bend
“Much Ado About Nothing” at High Desert Music Hall, Redmond
2026 HUMP! Film Festival at Volcanic Theatre Pub, Bend
Sat, Mar 21
Giselle Ballet at Tower Theatre, Bend
“Much Ado About Nothing” at High Desert Music Hall, Redmond
Sun, Mar 22
“The 39 Steps” at Cascades Theatrical Co., Bend
Snow White Ballet at Tower Theatre, Bend
“Much Ado About Nothing” at High Desert Music Hall, Redmond
"The 39 Steps." Mar 20, 22, 26-29 and Apr 3-5.
Thu, Mar 26
“The 39 Steps” at Cascades Theatrical Co., Bend
Fri, Mar 27
“The 39 Steps” at Cascades Theatrical Co., Bend
“Everyone In This Bank Is a Thief” by Benjamin Stevenson at Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Central Oregon
Sat ,Mar 28
“The 39 Steps” at Cascades Theatrical Co., Bend
Sun, Mar 29
“The 39 Steps” at Cascades Theatrical Co., Bend
High Desert Chamber Music Concert Series: Trio Bohemo
Tue, Mar 31
“Everything Changes Everything” by Laren Kessler at Roundabout Books, Bend
Wed, Apr 1
Fly Fishing Film Tour 2026 at Sisters Movie House
Fri, Apr 3
“The 39 Steps” at Cascades Theatrical Co., Bend
“Natasha Pierre & the Great Comet of 1812” at The Greenhouse Cabaret, Bend
Sat, Apr 4
“The 39 Steps” at Cascades Theatrical Co., Bend
“Natasha Pierre & the Great Comet of 1812” at The Greenhouse Cabaret, Bend
Sun, Apr 5
“The 39 Steps” at Cascades Theatrical Co., Bend
“Natasha Pierre & the Great Comet of 1812” at The Greenhouse Cabaret, Bend
Exhibition on Screen, Wed, Apr 8.
Trio Bohemo, Sun, Mar 29
CascadesTheatr ical Co
SistersMovie House
High Desert Chamber Music
Wed, Apr 8
Indigenous Speakers Series: A Recipe for Resilience at High Desert Museum
Exhibition on Screen: Turner & Constable at Sisters Movie House
Thu, Apr 9
“Natasha Pierre & the Great Comet of 1812” at The Greenhouse Cabaret, Bend
Fri, Apr 10
“Into the Breeches!” by Ellipse Theatre Community at Open Space Event Studios, Bend
Charlie Chaplin’s Smile at Tower Theatre, Bend
“Natasha Pierre & the Great Comet of 1812” at The Greenhouse Cabaret, Bend
Sat, Apr 11
The Maestro at the Piano featuring Brett Mitchell at Sunriver Christian Fellowship
Central Oregon Chamber Orchestra at Mountain View High School, Bend
“Natasha Pierre & the Great Comet of 1812” at The Greenhouse Cabaret, Bend
Sun, Apr 12
“Into the Breeches!” by Ellipse Theatre Community at High desert Music Hall, Redmond
Imani Winds & Andy Akiho presented by OSU-Cascades & PRAx at Tower Theatre, Bend
Central Oregon Chamber Orchestra at Mountain View High School, Bend
“Natasha Pierre & the Great Comet of 1812” at The Greenhouse Cabaret, Bend
Mon, Apr 13
Piano Sensation Jim Brickman at Tower Theatre, Bend
Tue, Apr 14
Chanticleer with Central Oregon Mastersingers at Tower Theatre, Bend
SunriverMusicFestivalFB
Wed, Apr 15
250 In the West: Public Lands presented by historian Leisl Carr Childers at High Desert Museum, Bend
Thu, Apr 16
“Natasha Pierre & the Great Comet of 1812” at The Greenhouse Cabaret, Bend
Fri, Apr 17
Banff Mountain Film Festival at Tower Theatre, Bend
“Natasha Pierre & the Great Comet of 1812” at The Greenhouse Cabaret, Bend
Sat, Apr 18
Music in Public Places featuring The Dove String Quartet at the La Pine Library
Oregon Brass Quintet at Central Oregon Community College, Wille Hall, Bend
“Into the Breeches!” by Ellipse Theatre Community at Sunriver Christian Fellowship
Banff Mountain Film Festival at Tower Theatre, Bend
“Natasha Pierre & the Great Comet of 1812” at The Greenhouse Cabaret, Bend
Sun, Apr 19
“Natasha Pierre & the Great Comet of 1812” at The Greenhouse Cabaret, Bend
Thu, Apr 23
“Natasha Pierre & the Great Comet of 1812” at The Greenhouse Cabaret, Bend
Fri, Apr 24
“American Buffalo” at Cascades Theatrical Co, Bend
“Natasha Pierre & the Great Comet of 1812” at The Greenhouse Cabaret, Bend
Sat, Apr 25
“American Buffalo” at Cascades Theatrical Co, Bend
“Into the Breeches!” by Ellipse Theatre Community at Sisters Firehouse Community Hall
“Natasha Pierre & the Great Comet of 1812” at The Greenhouse Cabaret, Bend
Sun, Apr 26
“Into the Breeches!” by Ellipse Theatre Community at A.R. Bowman Museum, Prineville
“American Buffalo” at Cascades Theatrical Co, Bend
“Natasha Pierre & the Great Comet of 1812” at The Greenhouse Cabaret, Bend
Thu, Apr 30
“American Buffalo” at Cascades Theatrical Co, Bend
Swan Lake by International Ballet Stars at Tower Theatre, Bend
“Natasha Pierre & the Great Comet of 1812” at The Greenhouse Cabaret, Bend
Fri, May 1
“American Buffalo” at Cascades Theatrical Co, Bend
“Natasha Pierre & the Great Comet of 1812” at The Greenhouse Cabaret, Bend
Sat, May 2
“American Buffalo” at Cascades Theatrical Co, Bend
“Into the Breeches!” by Ellipse Theatre Community at Unity Community of Central Oregon
“Natasha Pierre & the Great Comet of 1812” at The Greenhouse Cabaret, Bend
Sun, May 3
“American Buffalo” at Cascades Theatrical Co, Bend
Tue, May 5
Repertory Dance Theatre at Tower Theatre, Bend
Thu, May 7
“American Buffalo” at Cascades Theatrical Co, Bend
Fri, May 8
“American Buffalo” at Cascades Theatrical Co, Bend
Portland Cello Project at Tower Theatre, Bend
Sat, May 9
“American Buffalo” at Cascades Theatrical Co, Bend
Sun, May 10
“American Buffalo” at Cascades Theatrical Co, Bend
The Maestro at the Piano featuring Brett Mitchell, Sat, Apr 11.
Swan Lake by International Ballett Stars, Thur, Apr 30
Repertory Dance Theatre, Tue, May 5.
SOURCE PICKS
WEDNESDAY 3/4
RUSSELL JOHNSTON
FOLK TUNES FROM THE COAST
Russell Johnston is a coastal folk-rock / Americana artist based on the Oregon Coast, living on the cliffs above Lighthouse Beach. His life follows a simple, rugged rhythm: writing songs, playing shows, traveling, surfing, tattooing, and staying fit through training and coaching. That lived-in, hands-on lifestyle is woven directly into his music, which blends rugged acoustic energy with honest, soul-driven storytelling. Drawing influence from artists like Zach Bryan, Ben Howard, and Pearl Jam, Russell’s live shows feature powerful originals and crowd-favorite covers delivered with a raw, high-energy, and deeply human presence that connects with any room. 7-9pm at Silver Moon Brewing. 24 NW Gereenwood Ave., Bend. $10.10.
THURSDAY 3/5
CHEYENNE WEST BAND
MELODIES STRAIGHT FROM MUSIC CITY
Nashville recording artist and seasoned songwriter Cheyenne West has been making country music since she was 12 years old. Her high energy shows and country rockin' flavor keep the crowds yearning for more. 7:30-9:30pm at Commonwealth Pub. 30 SW Century Dr., #100, Bend. Free.
JESSIMAE PELUSO COMEDY
BIG SCREEN ARTIST COMEDY SHOW
Jessimae Peluso is a stand-up comedian, writer, performer and podcast host whose work blends raw comedy with emotional depth. Known for her breakout role on MTV’s Girl Code and hosting Netflix’s Tattoo Redo and Surviving Paradise, Jessimae has spent nearly two decades turning personal pain into punchlines. 7pm at Volcanic Theatre Pub. 70 SW Century Dr., Bend. $27.
THE LIMINAL LIBRARY
SPIRITUAL FRIDAYS
A sacred First Friday gathering in downtown Bend — explore aura photography, intuitive + tarot readings, sound healing and more rotating offerings in a space held with intention. No appointment needed — bring your open heart and wander through the energy of community, 5pm at Pine and Prism Wellness Collective. 856 NW Bond St., Suite 202, Bend. Free.
LIVE AFTERNOON BALLAD
ROCK & BLUES FEATURING THE “ROCKCHUCKS” AT MARAGAS WINERY
WINE AND DINE
The real deal! Immerse yourself into tunes you grew up hearing. Complimentary for our winery patrons. Winery Opens at 11:30am, Music 1-3:30pm, with winery closing 5pm. Open for tasting, drinks, and apps. 15523 US-97, Culver. Free.
FAMILY-FRIENDLY KARAOKE NIGHT
FAMILY WEEKEND FUN
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 at Bridge 99 Brewery. 63063, Layton Ave., Bend. Free.
SUNDAY 3/8
HAIRY SITUATION: A COMEDY SHOW BY ALOK
THOUGHT PROVOKING COMEDY NIGHT
In their new standup show, ALOK keeps finding themself in hairy situations: being mistaken as a mega-famous Brazilian DJ, botching TikTok makeup tutorials, and signing up for an appointment at the European Wax Center. This unmissable evening is flippant and fabulous, wicked sharp and delightfully silly. 5-8pm at Midtown Ballroom. 51 NW Greenwood Ave., Bend. $29.95-$41.53.
MONDAY 3/9
BINGO WITH BREN SUPPORTING KIDS CENTER
FUNDRAISER FOR FAMILIES IMPACTED BY ABUSE
Join us for Bingo with Bren on Monday nights! This month, we’re proud to support KIDS Center. Cards are $2 each or 6 for $10 (cash only), with cash prizes awarded every round. Bring the whole family for an evening of fun, community, and friendly competition! 6-8pm at Bevel Craft Brewing. 911 SE Armour Rd., Suite B, Bend. $2.
TUESDAY 3/10
PAPER WINGS & HANNAH MAYREE
MUSIC WITH A WHIMSY CHARM
Longtime friends and collaborators Emily Mann and Wila Frank, known together as Paper Wings, invoke warm, pastoral folk songs suited to wandering through a forest or field, quiet contemplation, and long winding journeys. Furnished with banjo and harmonies so close you often can’t tell their voices apart, Frank & Mann deliver dynamic performances emboldened by the strength of their sincere songwriting. 6:30-9pm at 24 NW Greenwood Ave., Bend. $22.94.
WEDNESDAY 3/11
FREE LINE DANCE LESSONS
LINE DANCING YOUR WAY OUT OF YOUR COMFORT ZONE
Free beginner-friendly line dance lessons with instructor Alex Reininger. Learn two fun dances in one hour—no experience needed! 7-8pm at The Coyote. 910 NW Harriman St., Bend. Free.
Viva Luna Studios
Paper Wings and Hannah Mayree
Cheyenne West
Russel Johnson
S SOUND ‘Did You Love the World and the World Not Love You?’
Indie-rock legends, Pedro the Lion and Grandaddy, bring the feels to Bend
By Peter Madsen
Overgrown indie-rock kids, rejoice!
Two stalwarts of melodic, ‘90s-originated indie rock — Pedro the Lion and Grandaddy — are bringing their trademark blends of quirky, earnest songmaking to Bend this spring.
Pedro the Lion is celebrating 30 years of existence with a tour-pitstop at the Volcanic Theatre Pub on March 27. Grandaddy is touring in promotion of the 25-year anniversary of its 2000 album, “The Sophtware Slump,” with a performance at the Midtown Ballroom on May 20.
Fronted by Seattleite David Bazan, Pedro the Lion blipped onto college radio’s radar in the mid ‘90s and through the early aughts, soon to be mentioned in the same sentence (and, at times, on the same showbill) as Death Cab for Cutie and The Shins. Or, for that matter, Grandaddy, with whom Pedro the Lion toured last fall.
“Santa Cruz,” released by Polyvinyl in 2024, is the third of a pentalogy — five album chapters — each named for a place in which Bazan spent time growing up. Previous installments have been “Havasu” (2022) and Bazan’s native “Phoenix” (2019).
Although the five-album autobiography comes after a 15-year gap in performing as Pedro the Lion, Bazan remained busy, touring in promotion of five solo albums and a smattering of EPs and singles. Bazan is accompanied by Erik Walters on guitar and backing vocals, and Rebecca Cole, holding down the synthesizer, keyboard bass and also backing vocals.
For lapsed fans who are catching up with the revitalized Pedro the Lion
discography (e.g., yours truly), there’s a lot here to celebrate. Delightfully, synthy echoes of Bazan’s 2005 side project, Headphones (think Postal Service), wind throughout “Santa Cruz,” adding a broody, electric dynamic to the band’s diaristic, singer/songwriter songs. More than ever, the sonic palette is brisk yet warm, like golden-hour light poring through a tree canopy in autumn. Bazan’s vocals alternate between lilting confessions and roaring crescendos, and his delivery is as nimble and nuanced as ever.
And in a certain way, Bazan has continued with the conceptual album structures that defined earlier LPs like 2000’s “Winners Never Quit” and 2002’s “Control.” But while those song-cycling narratives were fictive, Bazan’s contemporary, autobiographic songwriting is no less compelling. Bazan’s lyrics sift through adolescent awkwardness and adolescent inner-life with unflinching detail. Take the title track, for example: “First day of 8th grade / The stupidest backpack / Regretted it / As soon as I stepped out of the car / Neon green acid wash / To last me the whole year / I loved it in Phoenix at the mall with my Grandma / So I’ll never be cool here.”
This emotional specificity might stray close to cringe, but Pedro’s gauzy, driving rock crunch belies that nakedness with manly conviction.
That Bazan and Grandaddy are both making a tour stop in Bend is something of a spiritual coincidence. In conversation with Vice in 2019, Bazan credits a lyric from Grandaddy’s “Sophtware Slump” album — “Did you love this world and did the world not love you?” for granting him the fortitude to lay so
much out in his music. In Grandaddy, Bazan found kindred spirits, both artistically and emotionally.
“The first time I heard [the aforementioned] lyric, it really cut me,” Bazan told Vice. “Some of us need something from the world … connection with other people, that somehow, we’re not getting. I think that Pedro the Lion and, subsequently, [my solo work], was a way for me to express that and release some of that stuff.”
For those not acquainted with the Modesto, California-originated Grandaddy (another indie-rock bastion), imagine the Flaming Lips’ “The Soft Bulletin” blended with Radiohead’s “OK Computer” and you’re halfway there. (Throw in Elliott Smith, Pavement and Sparklehorse while you’re at it.)
In an interview, Grandaddy frontman Jason Lytle cited the 1999 “OK Computer” as a genre-exploding example of how futuristically dark indie rock could sound at the turn of the millennium. Others took note of that album’s influence on Grandaddy’s subsequent album. In a retrospective review of “The Sophtware Slump,” a Pitchfork critic opined: “If Radiohead captured a feeling of pre- millennial tension, “The Sophtware Slump” captured the feeling of the disappointment that came afterward — the feeling that life was going to be more or less the same as it had been, only now we’d have to live with the fact that we once thought it’d be so different: the feeling of January 2, 2000.” Rapid technological advancement,
then as it is now, is viewed with unease. Case in point, the song “Jed the Humanoid” is a requiem for, ahem, a neglected robot who drinks himself to death. The funny, if sad, sci-fi conceit allows Lytle to explore his own excessive self-medicating, he later explained in a 2011 interview, without being on the nose about it.
While Grandaddy will perform “The Sophtware Slump” in its entirely at the Midtown Ballroom, the four-piece (whose lineup will forever include the late bassist Kevin Garcia) will perform a second set of career-spanning fan favorites, including tracks from their pedal steel-heavy, blue grass/new wave hybrid “Bu Wav” album, released by Dangerbird Records in 2024.
Despite these seemingly heavy vibes of both Pedro the Lion and Grandaddy have offered decades of catharsis; with the right accompaniment, our existential blahs are nothing we can’t exorcise.
Pedro the Lion
Friday, Mar. 27, 8pm
Volcanic Theatre Pub 70 SW Century Drive, Bend tixr.com/groups/volcanictheatre/events/pedrothe-lion-174369
$32.43 + fees
Grandaddy
Wednesday, May 20, 8pm Midtown Ballroom 51 NW Greenwood Ave, Bend tinyurl.com/yswxw897
$32.50 + fees
Pedro the Lion celebrates 30 years of lush indie-rock at the Volcanic Theatre Pub on March 27
Andy Fitts
If Radiohead’s “OK Computer” is one of your favorite albums, you’re gonna dig Grandaddy performing “Sophtware Slump” at the Midtown Ballroom on May 20.
Grandaddy
CALENDAR
4 Wednesday
The Astro Lounge Karaoke with Christina Karaoke with Christina. The event gives goers thousands of songs to sing to. Great sound system and new mics. Drink specials available. Come sing your heart out! 9pm-1am. Free.
The Capitol Karaoke Drink specials! Air guitars! Come see for yourself. 8pm-1am. Free.
The Coyote Free Line Dance Lessons Free beginner-friendly line dance lessons with instructor Alex Reininger. Learn two fun dances in one hour—no experience needed! 7-8pm. Free.
Craft Kitchen and Brewery Comedy Open Mic Night Open mic comedy on Bend’s NE side. Come down, eat BBQ, drink drinks, and be prepared to laugh. 7:30-9pm. Free.
Hosmer Bar Trivia Night Brainy banter and cold drinks! Whether you’re a seasoned quiz champ or just there for fun, gather the crew and test your knowledge! 7-9pm. Free.
JC’s Bar & Grill Wing-SKEY Wednesday + Trivia Enjoy $0.75 wings, whiskey and drink deals. Trivia with the infamous “physical” challenge (musical chairs, limbo, paper airplanes, etc.) starts at 7pm. 7pm. Free.
Northside Bar & Grill Mellow Wednesday Open Mic Night Come down for our Open Mic Night hosted by Derek Michael Marc! Sign up at 5:30pm to play! 5:30-8pm. Free.
Ponch’s Place Bingo Wednesday Come out for bingo! 5:30-7pm. Free.
Portello Lounge Music Bingo Join us for Music Bingo, hosted by Rachel Fishman, who keeps crowds entertained all night! Enjoy great food, drinks and good company at Portello! 6:30-8:30pm. Free.
Prost! - Bend WTF! Wednesday Trivia Fun! Genuine UKB Trivia is a unique and entertaining trivia! Independent. Bring something to write with and positive vibes, too. 7pm. Free.
Silver Moon Brewing Russell Johnston Russell Johnston is a coastal folk-rock / Americana artist based on the Oregon Coast. He blends rugged acoustic energy with soul-driven storytelling. Russell’s live shows feature originals and crowd fave covers. 7-9pm.
The Commonweath Pub Franchot Tone Any day, you can expect Tone to deliver an easygoing vibe. Singer/Songwriter Franchot Tone caught the attention of critics as a founding member of Culver City Dub Collective. 7:30-9:30pm.
The Suttle Lodge & Boathouse Jazz at the Suttle Lodge Dirty Jazz with Wolfe House Records, first and third Wednesdays of the month, all winter! RSVP required for overnight guests. 6pm.
Upp Liquids Bend Comedy Open Mic The Bend Comedy Open Mic, every Wednesday at UPP Liquids. All peformance types and ages are welcome! 7-9pm. Free.
Wonderland Chicken X Worthy Brewing Karaoke Wednesday! Drink and food specials! Sing your favorite songs or do the trademark karaoke roulette and let your fate be at the will of the KJ! 8pm. Free.
5 Thursday
The Belfry SFF Presents David Wilcox at The Belfry Folk songwriter David Wilcox brings his warm baritone, storytelling, and decades-deep craft to the stage. Expect heart, humor, and masterful musicianship. 7-9:30pm. $35.
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 Coyote Free Hip-Hop Line Dance Lessons Free hip-hop line dance lessons. Learn two fun dances in one hour. No experience needed! Enjoy a spacious dance floor, bar, mocktails, treats, TVs, and pool tables. 7-8pm. Free.
Hosmer Bar Bingo Night Your week just found its highlight—bingo! Drinks, good company and a little friendly competition. 7-9pm. Free.
The Lot Doc Monos Doc Monos is a solo acoustic project from singer/songwriter Andy Jaehrling. Andy brings a nice mix of Folk, Americana, Blues, and 6-8pm. free.
LIVE MUSIC & NIGHTLIFE
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Deone Jennings Join us for great food, amazing music, and even better
Northside Bar & Grill Big Treble Come down to see Big Treble! Playing form 7pm to 9pm! Awesome food and drinks! 7-9pm. 0.00.
Ponch’s Place Trivia Thursdays With QuizHead Games. 6-8pm. Free.
River’s Place Mason James & Samantha Hart Mason brings an indie easy listening to fill the room. Harmonies and duets with by Samantha Hart. 6-8pm. Free.
Stoller Wine Bar Bend Haute Melange Jazz manouche, Gypsy jazz, Django swing - 4 talented musicians playing the “Hot Club” music of the 1930’s and 40’s swing era, and more. 6-8pm. Free
The Commonweath Pub Cheyenne West Band Nashville recording artist and songwriter Cheyenne West has been making country music since she was 12 years old. Her high energy shows and country rockin’ flavor keep the crowds yearning for more. 7:30-9:30pm.
The Suttle Lodge & Boathouse Fireside Concert Series: Shelby Natasha Most Thursdays from, we have some fireside live music.RSVP required for overnight lodging. 6-8pm.
The Winery at Manzanita- Bend Vino & Vibes Enjoy an evening of wine and local grooves every Thursday. Local singers and song writers welcome. 5-7pm. Free.
Volcanic Theatre Pub Jessimae Peluso Comedy Jessimae Peluso is a stand-up comedian, writer, performer, and podcast host whose work blends comedy with emotional depth. She is known for her breakout role on MTV’s Girl Code and hosting Netflix’s Tattoo Redo and Surviving Paradise. 7pm. $27.
6 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.
Bunk+Brew Apres Ski Nights Après Ski Nights are heating up at Bunk + Brew! 1st & 3rd Friday the mountain closes for DJ Briantology, bonfires, and cozy vibes. Show your mountain pass for free sauna time and drink discounts. 5-8pm. Free.
The Capitol TULUM Latin Night The Latin club experience you’ve been waiting for is finally here. Dance all night to a wide range of Latin genres: reggaeton, salsa, bachata, merengue, Latin house & more. 8:30pm-2am. Free.
The Commonwealth Pub Major Dudes Major Dudes, including the Luckless Pedestrians horn section, is a rock band based in Bend, Oregon, who love to play and celebrate the music of Steely Dan. 7:30-10pm.
Craft Kitchen & Brewery Friday Comedy at Craft with Todd Basil The audience will laugh out loud to comedian Todd Basil. This in-person run-through of his 30 minute special gives the audience a raw, behind-the-scenes look before his big release. 8-10pm.
Desert Inn Sports Bar & Grill Chasin’ Bandits The Band plays country and rock favorites. Talented musicians keep the crowd entertained and engaged. Enjoy delicious food and drinks. Friday night is prime rib night! 7-10pm. Free.
Faith, Hope & Charity Vineyards Live at the Vineyard: Mango Stew Get ready for a tropical escape! Mango Stew is bringing a funfilled night of island-inspired tunes. From Kenny Chesney and Jimmy Buffett to Zac Brown Band and the Eagles. 5-8pm. $15.
Hardtails Bar & Grill Stage 28 Karaoke Come out for a night of karaoke! Event-goers come readt to sing! 8pm-Midnight. Free.
Hawkeye & Huckleberry Lounge SHINE
This is a night of dancing and singing to a number of different genres.Come prepared to have a hoot. 8-10pm.
Pine & Prism Wellness Collective
The Liminal Library A sacred first-Friday gathering in downtown Bend — explore aura photography, intuitive tarot readings, sound healing, and more. No appointment needed — bring your open heart and soul. 5pm. Free.
Silver Moon Brewing Sit, Stay, Laugh - The Roundabouts Improv - Fundraiser for Street Dog Heros This is a fundraiser for Street Dog Hero. Every performance is a brand-new adventure of fun improv that supports a local dog shelter! 7-9:30pm.
Silver Moon Brewing Pert Near Sandstone This midwestern roots music group will be perfoming modern string band music. Pert Near has had the privilege of helping to establish and continuing to curate and host the Blue Ox Music Festival. 7-10pm.
Silver Moon Brewing So Much House: Fluffy Stuff & Luxo SoMuchHouse: Bend debut DJ set by Fluffy Stuff with support by Luxo. B2B set by Its Fine & MStarkDJ. Dance, community, house music. 8pm-2am. $15.
Virginia Meissner SnoPark Music in the Mountains- Piano at Meissner Experience candlelit trails under the stars at Meissner. Ski, snowshoe, or relax by the fire as award-winning pianist Paula Dreyer performs live. Headphones available outdoors. Costumes encouraged. Hot cocoa provided. Featuring live painting by Karen Eland. 6-9pm. $20-$40.
Volcanic Theatre Pub The Coffis Brothers The Coffis Brothers have earned their reputation as modern-day torchbearers of all-American rock & roll. The group will be preforming live! 7pm. $27. Wanderlust Tours Winter PrideFest Bonfire Snowshoe Celebrate Winter PrideFest in the outdoors. Strap into snowshoes and jaunt through the forest for an evening around a bonfire, sharing drinks as the sun sets. 4-8pm.
7 Saturday
One Mad Man Music One Mad Man: loops together multiple instruments to create moody, driven backdrops accompanied by smooth vocals. First Saturday of every month, 9pm-Midnight. Free. 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. Isla Rhyne Isla Rhyne, a self taught 14 year-old solo pianist from Sisters, Oregon, will be performing classics, showtunes, & original material. Enjoy ciders, beer, wine, & n/a beverages. Appetizers available, outside food welcome. Kid & dog-friendly. Free! 3-5pm. Free.
Bridge 99 Brewery Family-Friendly Karaoke Night Looking for family fun? Goers will find it at Bridge 99 Brewery. Adults, kids and good dogs welcome. 6-9pm. Free.
Pert Near Sandstone, a band with midwestern roots and an extensive music catalog, is performing on March 6 from 7-10 pm at Silver Moon Brewing.
Pert Near Sandstone
CALENDAR
Crave Bend Shameless - Championship Our finalists will deliver their best coming-of-age stories yet. Voted on by the audience! Doors 6pm | Show 7-8:30pm. $20.
Faith, Hope & Charity Vineyards Live at the Vineyard - Jessie Leigh Nashville recording artist Jessie Leigh creates music that embodies small-town America with a patriotic spirit. Jessie’s upbringing instilled in her a deep love for her country and community, which shines through in her music. 5-8pm. $25.
Maragas Winery Live Afternoon Ballad Rock & Blues featuring the “Rockchucks” at Maragas Winery The real deal! Immerse yourself into the tunes you grew up with. Complimentary for our Winery patrons. Winery Opens at 11:30am, Live Music begins at 1pm and finishes at 3:30pm, with winery closing at 5pm. Open for tasting, drinks, and apps. 1-3:30pm. Free.
Northside Bar & Grill Highway 97 Band The band will be playing crowd favorite classic rock! 8-11pm. Free
Portello Lounge Long Gone Wilder @ Portello The group brings their high-energy mix of rock, Americana, and blues to Portello! Reservations and Walk-ins welcome! 6:30-8:30pm. Free.
Silver Moon Brewing Zac Ross of Man Overboard & Victor Artis Now performing solo and acoustic, Zachary brings songs back to their roots. His live set blends Man Overboard favorites with stories from the road, deep cuts, and new material that shows his evolution as a songwriter. 7-10pm.
The Commonweath Pub Dad Bods Dad Bods is Bend’s 80’s party music cover band that plays crowd favorite throwbacks. Dad Bods delivers a fun and exciting night of music! 8-10pm.
Volcanic Theatre Pub The Bluegrass Bend-r This event will be a one-day mini bluegrass festival taking over the Volcanic Theatre Pub! It will feature a blend of the top local talent and regional favorites. 4-11pm. $30.
8
Sunday
Dogwood At The Pine Shed Okay Karaoke Take a stab at karaoke. This event will make for a relaxed date night out. Noon-11pm. Free.
Initiative Brewing - The Hub Trivia Sunday with UKB Trivia at Initiative Brewing/ The Hub in Redmond Team up to win great prizes while enjoying good food and drinks. Bring good vibes and a pen. 4-6pm. Free.
Midtown Ballroom Hairy Situation: A Comedy Show By Alok In their new standup show, ALOK keeps finding themself in hairy situations. This unmissable evening is flippant and fabulous, wicked sharp, and delightfully silly. 5-8pm. $29.95-$41.53.
River’s Place Trivia Gather your team and join us for this friendly battle of the minds hosted by Useless Knowledge Bowl.Noon-2pm. Free.
River’s Place Pete Kartsounes Story teller, Pete Kartsounes weaves a tale through a soulful musical journey. 5-7pm. Free.
Silver Moon Brewing A Benefit Show for MVHS Sparrow Club A Benefit Show for MVHS Sparrow Club 6-9pm.
Silver Moon Brewing Benefit Show for Mountain View’s Sparrow Benefit show for MVHS Cougar Pageant. Featuring three local bands: Party in the Back, Dad Religion, and Mountain View’s very own The Cashews. 6-8:30pm. $10.
9 Monday
Bevel Craft Brewing Bingo with Bren Supporting Kids Center A night to support the KIDS Center. Bring the whole family for an evening of fun, community, and friendly competition! 6-8pm. $2.
M&J Tavern Vinyl Night Monday Night just got better! SupaFly will be the Dj. Bring a vinyl and sign up to add it to the Playlist. 9pm- Midnight. Free.
The Commonweath Pub Musician’s Open Showcase Hosted by The Session Event-goers will connect with other artists, and perform in a welcoming and collaborative, music-loving atmosphere. 5-9pm. Free.
10
Tuesday
The Astro Lounge Tuesdays trivia and karaoke The longest running trivia show in Central Oregon. They have a small fryer menu but supporting other restaurants is encouraged. 7:30-9pm. free.
Beach Hut Deli Tip of the Tongue Trivia Attendees will have a chance to win some great prizes and show off their trivia skills! 6-8pm. Free.
The Cellar Open Mic Open Mic hosted by Mari from Mari & The Dream! This is a night of enjoying music in a with a wlecoming and supportive community. 6-8pm. Free.
The Commons Cafe & Taproom Open Mic StoryTellers open mic nights are full of music, laughs and community. Poetry, comedy and spoken word are welcome. 6pm. Free.
Crux Fermentation Project Snowballers Bingo This is a night of supporting Central Oregon Avalanche Center. Goers will enjoy drinks and cash prizes! 6-8pm. $10.
Elements Public House Trivia (&Taco) Tuesdays A night with a delicious menu, brews, cocktails, plus Taco Tuesday menu! Play for gift card prizes or just for fun. Bring good vibes and a pen. 6:30pm. Free.
The Lot Trivia Tuesdays A local host challenges the audience with six questions in six categories. 6-7:30pm. Free.
Pinky G’s Pizzeria TRIVIA NIGHT A chance for goers to flex brain muscles. Pizza, beer and trivia will be available. 6-8pm. Free.
River’s Place Bingo! Have fun, win cash and help out a local non profit organization Cards $1 - $5 6-8pm.
Silver Moon Brewing Paper Wings & Hannah Mayree Long-time friends and collaborators Emily Mann and Wila Frank, known together as Paper Wings, invoke warm, pastoral folk songs. Furnished with delicate banjo and spellbinding harmonies so close you often can’t tell their voices apart. 6:30-9pm.
Ladysmith Black Mambazo The group sings a traditional music style called isicathamiya, which developed in the mines of South Africa. March 4, 7:30-9:30pm. Tower Theatre, 835 NW Wall St., Bend. Contact: 541-317-0700. info@towertheatre.org. Tickets: $39 - $59 (plus $8 Historic Preservation fee).
DANCE
White Lotus Lion Dancers at Tomi Mart, Bend’s Asian Market White Lotus Lion Dance returns this Saturday at 2PM at Tomi Mart! The 20-minute performance features lions, music, and firecrackers. Attendees will be able to feed the lion a red envelope to welcome good fortune in the Year of the Fire Horse. March 7, 2-2:22pm. Tomi Mart, 1130 SE 3rd Street, Bend. Contact: 5416687066. natasha@tomimartbend.com. Free.
FILM EVENTS
The Commonweath Pub T5 Jazz - Tuesday Night Jazz A great night of jazz music at the pub with Thomas Tsuneta and T5 Jazz. 7-9pm.
Volcanic Theatre Pub Karaoke Karaoke in the pub of VTP! Every Tuesday, 7pm - late 7pm.
11 Wednesday
The Coyote Free Line Dance Lessons Free beginner-friendly line dance lessons with instructor Alex Reininger. Learn two fun dances in one hour—no experience needed! 7-8pm. Free.
Craft Kitchen and Brewery Comedy Open Mic Night Open mic comedy on Bend’s NE side. Come down, eat some BBQ, drink some drinks, and be prepared to laugh. 7:30-9pm. Free.
Dogwood At The Pine Shed Transmission: ‘80s Dark Wave Social Club Immerse yourself in the sounds of the ’80s underground. This is a night of goth, post-punk, and darkwave. 7-10pm. Free.
Hosmer Bar Trivia Night Brainy banter and cold drinks! Fun for all whether goers are experienced or beginners! 7-9pm. Free.
Portello Lounge Music Bingo Rachel Fishman keeps the crowds entertained all night! A perfect date or family night out! 6:30-8:30pm. Free.
Prost! - Bend WTF! Wednesday Trivia Fun! Genuine UKB Trivia is truly unique and entertaining trivia! Bring good energy and a pen. 7pm. Free.
Silver Moon Brewing $5 Comedy Night 21+. Strong Content Expected. This show is committed to the work of providing entertainment that does not punch down with racism, homophobia, or transphobia. 7:30-9pm.
MUSIC
Devon Allman Blues Summit Devon Allman blues live performance brings together an all-star line-up. March 9, 7:30pm. Tower Theatre, 835 NW Wall St., Bend. Contact: 541-317-0700. info@towertheatre.org. Tickets: $44 - $69 (plus $8 Historic Preservation fee).
Hunter Noack Benefit Concert Hunter Noack, a critically acclaimed pianist, will perform a benefit concert for the SCF Three Rivers School Scholarship Fund. March 8, 2-4pm. Sunriver Christian Fellowship, 18139 Cottonwood Road, Sunriver. Contact: 541-593-1183. scholarships@ sunriverchristianfellowship.org. $40.00 Minimum Donation.
Follow the Beaten Path Film Screening Follow the Beaten Path is a documentary that explores the delicate balance of non-motorized recreation and conservation in Central Oregon’s National Forests March 10, 6pm. Volcanic Theatre Pub, 70 SW Century Dr., Bend. Mountains of the Moon Chris Benchetler’s film—set to Grateful Dead tunes, and captured using cutting-edge cinematography—takes viewers on a journey of nighttime landscapes while exploring themes of sport, life, music, and the living earth. March 4, 6:15-8pm. Sisters Movie House, 720 Desperado Court, Sisters. Contact: 5415498833. inquiries@sistersmoviehouse.com. $17.
You Got Gold: A Celebration of John Prine This is a tribute concert film honoring the Prine's legacy. Featuring heartfelt performances and behind-the-scenes stories, brought together family and more. March 11, 6:15-8pm. Sisters Movie House, 720 Desperado Court, Sisters. Contact: 5415498833. inquiries@sistersmoviehouse.com. $17.
ARTS + CRAFTS
Artist Talk: From Field to Form- Michele Guieu Michele Guieu will lead goers through the gallery, she will offer insight into her artwork. This is a conversational, movement-based evening rather than a traditional lecture. March 10, 5:30pm. Scalehouse Collaborative for the Arts, 550 NW Franklin Ave, Bend.
First Friday Opening: Seeds of Abundance: Limits, Loss & RegenerationMichele Guieu The show explores abundance through attention to one's environment. Using natural and salvaged materials, Guieu creates immersive, participatory installations. March 6, 5pm. Scalehouse Collaborative for the Arts, 550 NW Franklin Ave, Bend.
Fluid Art: Acrylic Pour Painting Explore fluid techniques, color blending, and playful experimentation. Beginners welcome. Create practice tiles and a unique painting. All supplies provided. March 9, 5:30-7:30pm. FREAK’N ART, 1265 NW Wall st., Bend. Contact: 5415087438. HelloFreakNArt@gmail.com. $95.
Fused Glass Plant Stakes - Mushrooms This workshop is great for beginner glass artists and people who would just like to learn the joys of fused glass. March 11, 6-8pm. DIY Cave, 444 SE Ninth St. Suite 150, Bend. Contact: 5413882283. classes@diycave.com. $159.
Garden Party Gallery Hop Celebrate spring with abstract art by Her Name Is Mauve, artisan home goods from Root Adorned, and fairy wands by Maggie Jeans.v42 NW Greenwood March 6, 5-8pm. RE/MAX Key Properties, 42 NW Greenwood Avenue, Bend. Contact: (541) 7280033. marketing@rmkporegon.com. Free.
Heritage Apple Rehab and Maintenance - Volunteer Training Learn how to care for heirloom orchards. This group is The Heritage Apple Corps—a team of arborists, Forest Service staff, community members, and apple nerds dedicated to restoring heirloom orchards. March 9, 9am3:30pm. Madras, NW Maple St., Madras. Contact: 650-224-6750. info@schoolofranch.org. $165.
High Desert Art League Member Show The collection includes works in oil, acrylic, watercolor, encaustic, mixed media, and photography. Jan. 7-March 31, 9am-5pm. Premiere Property Group, 25 NW Minnesota Ave., Bend. Contact: 541-241-6860. Free.
Intro to Blacksmithing - Forge a Bottle Opener This is a fast-paced, beginner-friendly blacksmithing workshop. Attendees will make their own bottle openers! March 7, 10am-Noon. DIY Cave, 444 SE Ninth St. Suite 150, Bend. Contact: 5413882283. classes@diycave.com. $159.
Intro to Fused Glass: Garden & Plant Stakes In this fun and beginner-friendly class, attendees will learn the basics of creating fused glass art.March 4, 6-8pm. DIY Cave, 444 SE Ninth St. Suite 150, Bend. Contact: 5413882283. classes@diycave.com. $139.
Intro to Leather Tooling: Make Earrings or a Cuff In this class, students will have the chance to make either a pair of earrings or a snap cuff. Beginner friendly. March 10, 6-9pm. DIY Cave, 444 SE Ninth St. Suite 150, Bend. Contact: 5413882283. classes@diycave. com. $129.
Intro to Stained Glass - Mushroom Suncatchers Attendees will learn to make a stained-glass mushroom suncatcher and have a solid introduction to the craft. . March 10, 6-8pm. DIY Cave, 444 SE Ninth St. Suite 150, Bend. Contact: 5413882283. classes@diycave.com. $139.
Irish Rainbow Paint & Sip Paint-andsippers will paint an Irish rainbow inspired by shamrocks, gold, and a touch of magic! March 11, 6-7pm. Bend Wine Bar & Winery Tasting Room, 550 SW Industrial Way, Bend. Contact: sarahanneswoffer@gmail.com. $55.
Kids Studio! Surrealism The event is for kids aged 7–12. They will explore Dali and Höch, play ‘exquisite corpse,’ and design surrealist card decks. Finish with a group game or trading. All materials included. Wed, March 4, 1:30-3:30pm and Wed, March 11, 1:30-3:30pm. FREAK’N ART, 1265 NW Wall st., Bend. Contact: 5415087438. HelloFreakNArt@gmail.com. $100.
Kids Woodworking - Cutting Boards (Ages 11-17) Participants will design and build their own wooden cutting board. Along the way, they’ll learn the basics of measuring, shaping, sanding, and finishing wood — all with age-appropriate and safe tools and supervision. March 11, 5-8pm. DIY Cave, 444 SE Ninth St. Suite 150, Bend. Contact: 5413882283. classes@diycave. com. $119.
Layers of the Earth Early Release Fun! This delicious class will be a practice in making Earth’s layers with chocolate pudding, crushed Oreos and more. (please notify us of any allergies), and a trip to Drake Park! March 4, 1-4pm. Tower Theatre, 835 NW Wall St., Bend. Contact: sarahanneswoffer@gmail.com. $45.
Leprechaun Traps Early Release
Weds This elementary-school-age class will go through the engineer design process. Participants will design, build and test leprechaun traps. March 11, 1-4pm. Tower Theatre, 835 NW Wall St., Bend. Contact: sarahanneswoffer@ gmail.com. $45.
March First Friday Art Walk Down Town Art Walk is showcasing the work of over 20 local artists! GOMPER’S DISTILLERY will be serving mocktails & mini cocktails. March 6, 4-7pm. Dry Canyon Community Art Center, 415 SW 6th St, Redmond. Contact: marketing@drycanyonarts. org. Free.
Monstera Madness: Stained Glass
Assembly This 4-hour workshop covers Tiffany foiling, soldering and more. Students use a pre-cut glass kit. All materials included. Ages 18+ March 8, 1:30-5:30pm. FREAK’N ART, 1265 NW Wall st., Bend. Contact: 5415087438. HelloFreakNArt@gmail.com. $130.
Devon Allman's Blues Summit is scheduled to perform at the Tower Theatre on March 9 at 7:30pm.
Devon Allman Blues Summit
Seeds of Abundance: Limits, Loss & Regeneration This exhibit explores themes of ecological limits, loss, and regeneration through immersive installation work using natural and reclaimed materials. March 6-April 24. Scalehouse Collaborative for the Arts, 550 NW Franklin Ave, Bend. Contact: 541-362-1288.
Sewcial! Free Creative Connection This fashion Workshop provides all sewing machines, tools, notions! Watching documentaries. RSVP at our website www.fashionforeveryone.org Thu, March 5, 4-6:30pm. Redmond Public Library, 827 SW Deschutes Ave., Redmond. Contact: community@fashionforeveryone.org. Free.
PRESENTATIONS + EXHIBITS
Nature Night: The Water Remembers
This event explores the largest dam removal and river restoration project in history. The event will show how combined efforts have brought the return of over 400 miles of salmon habitat. Registration required. March 11, 7-8:30pm. Tower Theatre, 835 NW Wall St., Bend. Contact: (541) 330-0017. event@deschuteslandtrust.org. Free.
The Secret Identity of Wonder Woman: An Expose This event contains mature content and is intended for adults 18 and older. The event will explore the life of Wonder Woman’s creator, William Moulton Marston. March 5, 11am-Noon. Redmond Public Library, 827 SW Deschutes Ave., Redmond. Contact: 541-312-1063. beccar@ deschuteslibrary.org. Free.
A Tribal Family History of the Wadatika’a Band of Northern Paiutes Dr. Diane Teeman, archaeologist, scholar, and tribal elder of the Wadatika’a Band of Northern Paiutes will share her family history, cultural traditions, and anthropological work, highlighting the Tribe’s connection between culture and conservation. March 11, 7-8pm. Contact: 5413302638. onda@ onda.org. Free.
THEATER
Little Women: The Musical The musical is a heartwarming adaptation of Louisa May Alcott’s beloved novel. An inspiring journey of family, hope, and heart—told through unforgettable music. March 6, 7-9pm, Sat, March 7, 7-9pm and Sun, March 8, 2-4pm. Mountain View High School Auditorium, 2755 NE 27th St., Bend. Contact: 541 355-4558. amy.james@bend.k12. or.us. $12-$16.
The True Story of Jack and the Beanstalk Starshine’s performance troupe presents an adaptation of the classic story. In this fractured fairy tale, Jack’s mother sends him out to sell a toilet plunger so they can buy some food. March 11, 5:30-6pm. The Belfry, 302 E Main Ave., Sisters. Contact: 541-645-0688. jennie@ starshine-theater.com. Free.
WORDS
Classics Book Club We will discuss Middlemarch by George Eliot. March 11, 6-7pm. Roundabout Books, 900 NW Mount Washington Dr., #110, Bend. Contact: 5413066564. events@ roundaboutbookshop.com. Free.
Crochet Layers to Love, Salena Baca
Fiber artist Salena Baca, author of Granny Stitch Blankets, My Crocheted Home, and more will discuss her new book, Crochet Layers to Love! March 10, 6:30-7:30pm. Roundabout Books, 900 NW Mount Washington Dr., #110, Bend. Contact: 5413066564. events@roundaboutbookshop. com. $5.
Current Fiction Book Club We will discuss The Fraud by Zadie Smith. March 4, 6-7pm. Roundabout Books, 900 NW Mount Washington Dr., #110, Bend. Contact: 5413066564. events@ roundaboutbookshop.com. Free.
Raging Writers / Spoken Words One hour of inspiration and creative writing, followed by one hour of Open Mic. Second Sunday of every month, 2-4pm. Spork, 937 NW Newport Ave., Bend. Free.
ETC.
Hoodoo’s Telefest Presented by Sons of Norway Grab your free-heel skis and get ready for a fun-filled day of lessons, stories and Nordic culture. race course with arrow shooting and ax throwing, Viking sword decorating and more! March 7, 9am-9pm. Hoodoo Ski Area, 27400 Big Lake Road, Sisters. Contact: 541.822.3799. eventsbreakingfree@gmail.com. Prices vary.
Singing for Suffrage Singing was part of the fight for women’s suffrage. The event explores suffrage songs from the past that spread the message for female rights. March 6, 10-11pm. Redmond Senior Center, 325 NW Dogwood Ave, Redmond. Contact: 541-548-6325. redmondseniors.org. Free.
OUTDOOR EVENTS
FREE Learn to Run Bend Workout! This is a beginner-centered workout session. All paces are welcome. Coffee afterward is highly recommended! March 7, 8:30-10:30am. Riverbend Park, 799 SW Columbia St., Bend. Contact: 503-481-0595. michelle@ceilingunlimitedhealthcoaching.com. Free.
Women’s Walk & Talk Wednesday The walk has no pace requirements. The event is open to women, including cis, trans, nonbinary, and gender-expansive folks who feel aligned with a women-centered community are welcome. First Wednesday of every month, Noon1pm. Through Dec. 31. Outside In, 845 Northwest Wall Street, Bend. Contact: 541 600 4393. info@ theadventurus.com. Free.
GROUPS + MEETUPS
Aging In Your Own Home: Stay Independent Longer The group will discuss tips and resources for aging and remaining in the home, including: medication management tools, home care and more. March 11, 11am-Noon. Deschutes Children’s Foundation East Campus, 2125 NE Daggett Ln., Bend. Contact: 5413121029. laurelh@deschuteslibrary.org. Free.
COTA Curious Those curious about how they can support their local trails, but do not feel called for trail work will enjoy this event. This event lets people do just that! March 11, 5:30-7:30pm. Bonta - Redmond, 3750 SW Badger Ave., Redmond. Contact: eddie.edwards@cotamtb.com. Free.
Dog Adoption Event Herding Dog Rescue of Central Oregon is bringing more dogs available for meet and greets and adoption! Attendees will have the opportunity to meet adorable fur-babies and ask about adoption and fostering. March 7, 11am-2pm. Mud Bay North, 20520 Robal Lane, Suite 100, Bend. Contact: 458-292-8362. Herdingdogrescue@gmail.com.
ET Expert Lab— Strategic Thinking Through practical frameworks and real world examples, you’ll learn how to prioritize effectively, evaluate tradeoffs, and think critically about how to allocate time, talent, and resources for maximum impact. March 11, 3:45-6pm. OSU Cascades Ray Hall Atrium, 1500 SW Chandler Ave, Bend. Contact: 5038531873. kathleen@ bendchamber.org. $25 Bend Chamber Members | $35 Non-Chamber Members.
Save Your Research from Destruction/ Ensure Its Future Survival — Lisa Louise Cooke The group will discuss key strategies to securing the future of geneology researchMarch 10, 10-11:30am. Williamson Hall at Rock Arbor Villa, 2200 NE Hwy 20, Bend. Contact: 541-317-9553. info@bendgenealogy.org. Members Free - $10 Zoom Fee/Non-Members..
Winter PrideFest Now in its 8th year, Winter PrideFest™ is a multi-event weekend celebrating the LGBTQ+ community and allies through various winter activities, social gatherings, and more. Register for Winter PrideFest at winterpridefest.com. March 7-8. Mt. Bachelor, 13000 Century Drive, Bend.
EVENTS + MARKETS
THRIFTS POP-UP The pop-up includes stylish vintage pieces. Sustainable fashion never looked this good. Music by DJ Timothy Bee. March 8, 11am-4pm. Upp Liquids, 550 SW Industrial way, Bend. Contact: 5413256676. vintagehouse81@gmail.com. Free.
FAMILY + KIDS
Kid’s Yoga at Namaspa! These classes are for kids 3 and up. Parents can practice while their kids spend time with other kids and one of our certified kids yoga instructors Mondays, 4-5pm. Namaspa Yoga Studio, 1135 NW Galveston Ave., Bend. Contact: 541-550-8550. soundbathstillness@gmail.com. $10.
Kids Line Dance Lessons Recommended ages 4–12 yo. Kids will stay active while parents enjoy food, drinks or mocktails, pool tables, TVs, and full bar seating. Spacious dance floor and family-friendly fun in downtown Bend. Wednesdays, 5-6pm. The Coyote, 910 NW Harriman St., Bend. Contact: mindfulmotionmentor@gmail.com. Free.
Kids Night Out With Camp Fire Central OregonParents and kids will enjoy a night of games, crafts, dinner— all supervised by certified Camp Fire babysitters! This is a pick-your-price fundraiser for Camp Fire programs! Fri, March 6, 5:30-8:30pm. Amity Creek Magnet School, 437 NW Wall Street, Bend. Contact: 5413824682. info@campfireco.org. $40.
William Moulton was a psychologist known for inventing the prototype for the polygraph, and for the widely acclaimed comic book hero, Wonder Woman. This event will explore his life, his impact and other lesser-known secrets about him.
Dale De Vera
GUNG HO
By Nic Moye
Remembering Fleetwood Mac A tribute band brings passion for the 1970s to Silver Moon
As the world was emerging from the pandemic, a group of musicians in Coeur D’Alene, Idaho, was trying to figure out how to put their mark on the world. They settled on starting a Fleetwood Mac tribute band.
“Fleetwood Mac is legendary and one of those bands that means so much to so many people, but honestly, going into it, we didn’t anticipate the emotional response that people would have at our shows,” vocalist Allison McCready told the Source. The four-member band is called Paper Flowers “Remembering Fleetwood Mac” and their tour will take them to Silver Moon Brewing on March 14.
The band consists of McCready, who also plays keyboard, guitarist Cary Beare, Kosh plays bass and Brian Burke is the drummer. They’ve been together about four years, but McCready says it took a year for them to create the show.
“We didn’t want to be a traditional note for note soundalike tribute band. We also didn’t want to cast the band members and wear costumes like most tribute bands,” McCready explains. “Instead, we wanted to set the band apart by just being ourselves and offering our own versions of the songs that are a little edgier than the originals while still being true to the Fleetwood Mac records.”
Fleetwood Mac has sold more than 120 million records, making them one of the world’s best-selling musical acts. McCready recalls the first time she was introduced to the “Rumours”
album, which sold more than 40 million copies worldwide, making it one of the best-selling albums of all time.
“I just fell in love with it immediately — the music, the cover art, everything — but most especially with the two women, Christine and Stevie, who seemed to me to be the superpowers of the band. Looking at their photos and listening to the music I could feel that each in their own unique way, they were at once both so strong and yet so feminine and that they shared what looked to me like an obvious love and sisterhood. That was all very appealing to me.”
This will be the first time Paper Flowers has stopped in Bend. “We want folks to know that what they will get at our show is the real deal — four rock musicians having a blast playing music they love from a band they respect and admire and sharing it to uplift and inspire!” McCready says.
“It’s a two-hour multimedia live concert experience and there’s always lots of dancing, singing along and love.”
Paper Flowers “Remembering Fleetwood Mac” is playing a show at Silver Moon Brewing on Saturday, March 14.
Paper Flowers
“Remembering Fleetwood Mac” Sat. March 14 7pm
Silver Moon Brewing
24 NW Greenwood Ave, Bend silvermoonbrewing.com/events $17.59
Paper Flowers “Remembering Fleetwood Mac”
With their edgy interpretations, Paper Flowers will remind you what a great band Fleetwood Mac was.
Kids Ninja 6-Week Series (Winter/ Spring) Kids ages 6-10 will feel empowered as they improve speed, increase strength, become more coordinated, and enhance athletic abilities. This is a 6-week series, multiple days/times of the week to choose from drop-off. (No class the week of 3/23) Mondays, 3:15-4:15pm, Tuesdays, 4:15-5:15 and 5:30-6:30pm and Thursdays, 4:155:15pm. Through April 2. Contact: 5412413919. info@freespiritbend.com. $144.
Kids Ninja After-School Camp Wednesdays are packed with climbing, parkour, timed races, and team games on an epic Ninja Warrior course for kids ages 6-10! They will build strength, speed, and confidence while having a blast and making new ninja friends. Let the midweek adventure begin! Wednesdays, 1:153:45pm. Through June 17. Contact: 5412413919. info@freespiritbend.com. $142.
Mini Ninja 6-Week Series (Winter/ Spring) These classes include exploration through soft-obstacle Ninja Warrior courses to develop coordination and balance skills. This 6-week series with multiple days/times of the week to choose from and is for infants age 10 - 24 months plus parent/caregiver. (No class the week of 3/23) Mondays, 10:30-11:15am, Tuesdays, 1010:45am, Wed, Feb. 18, 4:15-5pm and Wednesdays, 9:30-10:15am. Through April 1. Contact: 5412413919. info@freespiritbend.com. $134.
Mom + Baby Yoga 6-Week Series (Winter/Spring This event will allow participants to pose, tone, stretch and strengthen their body while releasing tension. They will work to properly strengthen abdominal and back muscles to reduce postpartum back pain, while including movements and songs with babies. This is a 6-week series for moms and babies age 6 weeks - pre-crawlers. No class 3/26. Thursdays, 10:3011:45am, Thursdays, 10:30-11:45am and Thursdays, 10:30-11:45am. Through May 14. Contact: 5412413919. info@freespiritbend.com. $144.
Ninja Elite 6-Week Series (Winter/ Spring) This is a fast-paced and challenging Ninja Warrior obstacle-based circuits. Kids ages 9-13 will learn new fitness conditioning techniques, parkour moves, and dynamic climbing and gymnastics movements. All levels are welcome. 6-week series, multiple days/times of the week to choose from. (No class the week of 3/23) Thursdays, 5:30-6:30pm, Thursdays, 5:30-6:30pm and Thursdays, 5:30-6:30pm. Through May 14. Contact: 5412413919. info@freespiritbend.com. $144.
Ninja Night Our experienced staff will supervise and lead fun, team-building games, Ninja Warrior challenges, and thrilling timed races through our amazing obstacle course. Have an incredibly fun night! Age 6-13. Saturdays, 5:30-8:30pm. Through June 20. Contact: 5412413919. info@freespiritbend.com. $42.
Prenatal Yoga 6-Week Series participants will rejuvenate, relax, and recharge as they move, breathe, and build community with other expectant moms! They will reduce common pregnancy discomforts and tensions, prepare the body for birth, improve postpartum recovery, and bring mindfulness to their daily life. All levels/ stages of pregnancy are welcome. No class the week of 3/23. Saturdays, 10:30-11:45am, Saturdays, 10:30-11:45am and Saturdays, 10:3011:45am. Through May 16. Contact: 5412413919. info@freespiritbend.com. $144.
FOOD + DRINK
Winemaker Dinner at Amaterra Kitchen + Social Club This is a one-night-only winemaker dinner celebrating the artistry of Amaterra—from vineyard to glass to plate. Winemaker Morgan White will be in Bend for an evening of storytelling, rare wines, and thoughtful pairings. Guests will enjoy an exclusively crafted, multicourse menu by Chef Jeff Kelly. March 7, 4-9pm. $85-$95 per person.
BEER + DRINK
Commonwealth Pub Happy Hour It’s 5 for 5, with $5 draft beers, $5 house wines, $5 margaritas, $5 crushes and $5 well liquor. Attendees will play ping-pong, darts, cornhole, games and enjoy afternoon music on patio and indoors. Ongoing, Noon-6pm. The Commonwealth Pub, 30 SW Century Dr., Bend. Free.
HEALTH + WELLNESS
“Cats on Mats” Meditation & Stretching Stretch,meditate, relax, and mingle with adoptable cats! This all-levels class is led by Ulla Lundgren. Bring your mat and wear comfy, cathair-friendly clothes. Space is limited! Sat, March 7, 9:30-10:30am Playful Paws Cat Cafe, 1465 SW Knoll Ave, Bend. Contact: 5024686084. meow@ playfulpawscatcafe.com. $30.
Badass Sound Bath This isn’t a typical sound bath and that’s exactly the point. Ther group kicks things off with bold beats, badass mantras, and guided movement. They then settle in for a deeply relaxing sound bath. Attendees will leave recharged, realigned, and feeling like a total badass. Playful, grounding, and empowering. Second Tuesday of every month, 6:30-7:30pm. Through Dec. 8. Continuum, A School of Shadow Yoga, 155 SW Century Drive, Suite 112, Bend. Contact: 5038165837. maramcbeckerllc@gmail.com. $25.
Bhakti Yoga Immersion with Rob & Melissa This yoga immersion is a celebration of music and heart-opening connection, an invitation to step into the living, breathing heart of devotion through sacred sound, and community. March 7, 11am-8:30pm. Yoga Shala Bend, 806 NW Brooks St. Suite 200, Bend. Contact: 541 668 6890. yogashalabend@gmail.com. $30-65.
Closed Eye Yoga Flow This is a closed-eye yoga session with a guided breathwork and subtle sensations coiming from senses other than sight. Eye masks are provided to support deeper focus and curiosity. Expect unhurried transitions, nervous system nourishment, and space to listen, feel, and reconnect from within. March 7, 1-2pm. Bend Yoga Center, 1230 NE 3rd Street, Suite A230, Bend. Contact: yoga@bendyoga.center. $24.
Conversations on Connection - Polarity & Fem & Masc Energies Conversations on Connection is a multi-gender gathering exploring how people relate, connect, and grow together. In this circle, the group will explore polarity in romantic relationship, feminine & masculine energies and how these energies live within us, shape attraction & conflict, and how greater self-connection can become a source of vitality. March 9, 6:30-8:30pm. East Bend Private Residence, Emily Ct, Bend. Contact: 5412285330. elizabeth.weigand@gmail.com. $10.
Finding & Keeping Your Center: An Introduction to the Céile Dé Tradition This 2 day retreat will introduce event-goers to teachings of the Cèile Dè Tradition, a Native contemplative spirituality rooted in the language, lore, and landscape of the Gaelic speaking lands. March 6, 3-8pm and March 7, 9am-4:30pm. First Presbyterian Church, 230 NE Ninth St., Bend. Contact: 541-410-4374. czthreesisters@gmail. com. $50-$95.
Ground Into Harmony Deanna Kay and DJPK-The Groove Looper This is an immersive, winter-inspired evening of movement, sound, and deep restoration. Participants will go through an embodied journey held by live music with Pete Kartsounes and supportive guidance by Deanna Kay. Practices will support releasing stored tension, and cultivating ease as you align with the season’s natural momentum. March 6, 6:30-8pm. Yoga Shala Bend, 806 NW Brooks St. Suite 200, Bend. Contact: 541 668 6890. yogashalabend@gmail.com. $40.
Playful Intimacy - A Tantric Partnership Ritual This is a guided, clothed Tantric-inspired partnership ritual inviting couples into playful, conscious connection. Through breath, non-sexual touch, intention, sound, and subtle energy awareness, participants explore deeper sensual, emotional, and embodied intimacy. This consent-centered experience blends curiosity and presence to help partners reconnect with lightness, trust, and authentic connection. March 10, 6:30-8pm. East Bend Private Residence, Emily Ct, Bend. Contact: 5412285330. elizabeth. weigand@gmail.com. $25.
Return to Your Foundation: Root Chakradance Anchored in the wisdom of the Root Chakra, this experience guides you back to the steadiness that lives at your foundation, the quiet strength that rises when you allow yourself to land. No dance experience is required, come as you are and leave with balanced, expansive energy. March 7, 10-11:30am. Hanai Foundation, 62430 Eagle Road, Bend. Contact: lynette@ sacredsoulflow.com. $60.
Rooted in Renewal: Head to toe rejuvenation event for hair, skin & body Renew confidence from the root up. Hair health, skin vitality and body confidence are all connected. Deschutes Dermatology and GetHairMD will have an exclusive evening featuring hair restoration, and discover the full spectrum of service offered at Deschutes Dermatology Center! March 11, 4-7pm. Deschutes Dermatology Center, 325 SW Upper Terrace Drive, Bend. Contact: 5413300900. kmckenna@deschutesdermatology.com. Free.
“Cats on Mats” is a meditation and light yoga group that gives attendees the chance to relax and hang out with adoptable and adorable cats and kittens. The event takes place on March 7 at Playful Paws Cat Cafe.
Playful Paws Cat Cafe
CHOW C
Sip Happens at Minnie’s
The Westman’s new lobby bar brings craft cocktails, plush fireside seating and caviar bumps to Bend’s historic Old Post Office building
By Donna Britt
On any given evening in downtown Bend, the sidewalks along Wall and Bond Streets hum with the usual mix of après ski glow, Patagonia puffers and the anticipatory buzz of dinner reservations. But inside the newly opened The Westman is a softer scene. One that invites you to sink in, warm up and linger over a well-built drink before heading out into the night.
Minnie’s at The Westman is the hotel’s lobby bar, a polished yet welcoming space carved out of the historic Old Post Office building. Rather than debuting a full scale restaurant inside the luxury boutique hotel, the operators opted for something more intimate. An elegant bar. A fireside room. A series of plush seating areas and cozy alcoves that feel equal parts Western romance and urban hideaway.
The hotel itself is named for Minnie Westman, who in the late 1800s rode horseback through Oregon’s Coast Range to deliver mail at just 20 years old. She was the first woman mail carrier west of the Mississippi, a detail that adds a layer of grit and independence to the property’s polished aesthetic. The building’s original 1930s era architectural details remain intact, and Minnie’s leans into them with rich textures, warm lighting and an overall mood that whispers rather than shouts, although on the night I ventured into the bar, it was packed. I attribute that to it being a long holiday weekend.
This is not a dinner destination in the traditional sense. Instead, Minnie’s excels as a pre-dinner cocktail perch or a post-adventure landing pad. If you’re headed to a show at the Tower, meeting friends before dinner or simply craving a civilized drink after a long day, it fits the bill beautifully.
The cocktail list hovers around the sixteen dollar mark, which feels expected at a boutique luxury hotel bar. Drinks are thoughtfully composed and presented with panache. The Smoking Revolver, for example, arrives over a large ice cube, garnished with a cocktail cherry and orange peel. Built with Broken Top coffee whiskey, coffee liqueur, Averna amaro and orange bitters, it leans into smoky sweetness with a bitter backbone and an entire smoke-making scene happens just before serving!
The Water Pageant, served martini style in a modern coupe, features Wild Roots lavender gin, Cointreau and fresh lemon juice. For something distinctly Oregon, the Marionberry Bramble celebrates the state’s favorite berry with marionberry liqueur and puree, a jewel-toned sip that feels both playful and grownup.
Tequila lovers can opt for the Agave Penicillin with reposado tequila and ginger honey syrup or a Pomegranate Margarita that promises a bright, tart edge. And then there is the Espresso Martini Affogato, made with Crater
Lake hazelnut espresso vodka, coffee liqueur and cold brew concentrate, crowned with a scoop of vanilla gelato. It reads decadent on paper and likely drinks that way, too.
Not drinking alcohol. No problem. The mocktail menu holds its own. On a recent chilly February evening, I ordered the Shrub and Soda with apple, cinnamon and brown sugar. It was lightly spiced and refreshing, seasonal without being cloying. Paired with a generous bowl of Cacio e pepe popcorn, it made for a cozy fireside snack. The popcorn was well seasoned with plenty of parmesan and cracked black pepper. Another yummy sounding mocktail choice is the Hazelnut Orgeat Lemonade.
Beer drinkers will find familiar favorites like Boneyard RPM IPA and Pfriem pilsner, while the wine list offers a small, curated selection designed to complement the small plates. Speaking of, there’s a pickle bowl and a PNW cheese board for grazing. The tater tot waffles topped with lox, crème fraiche, capers and dill clock in at the higher end of the price range, especially if you add a caviar bump, but they sound delightfully indulgent. A ham sandwich made with Olympia Provisions ham, fig jam and camembert on Sisters Bakery rosemary bread brings together some favorite purveyors in one tidy package. A gem wedge salad and a seasonal burrata plate round out the savory options.
For something sweet, you can revisit the Espresso Martini Affogato or keep it simple with a scoop of Bonta gelato. The Silk and Brine might be the most intriguing offering on the menu. Salted vanilla gelato finished with olive oil, lemon zest, fleur de sel and caviar. Unexpected and a little daring, I fully intend to try it on my next visit.
Prices range from six dollars for popcorn to the mid-twenties for the more elaborate offerings, with caviar additions priced according to market.
Minnie’s is not the kind of place where you settle in for a three-course meal. It is, however, a lush and inviting space that elevates the in-between moments. The time before the curtain rises. The hour between work and dinner. The quiet nightcap by the fire. A nod to Bend’s past. And a reminder that sometimes, all you need is a well-made drink, a bowl of popcorn and a beautiful room to feel like you have arrived.
Minnie’s at The Westman 777 NW Wall St., Bend westmanhotelbend.com info@westmanhotelbend.com https://www.instagram.com/thewestmanhotelbend/
Donna Britt
The Westman
Donna Britt
The Cacio e pepe popcorn with parmesan and black pepper is one of Minnie’s featured bites.
Specialty craft cocktails are the focus at Minnie’s at The Westman.
Minnie’s offers a handful of thoughtful mocktails including a Shrub & Soda.
SC SCREEN Sahasi Chori (Brave Girl) Puts a Human Face on Trafficking
An interview with filmmaker Erin Galey
By Jared Rasic
For the last few years, I’ve been the lead shorts programmer for the Bend Film Festival, which has involved me watching hundreds and hundreds of short films over several months of submissions. One thing I’ve learned in that time is that it’s easy to tell when you’re watching a terrible one, but when you discover a remarkable short, the feeling is much more ephemeral, making you want to be sure you’ve found something so rare.
Just a few minutes into local filmmaker Erin Galey’s breathtaking short film, “Sahasi Chori (Brave Girl),” it was easy to tell I was seeing something of uncompromising power and importance. Across a deeply moving and infuriating 20 minutes, Galey tells the story of Bhumika, a 13-year-old Nepali girl who leaves her village with a trusted family friend, Krishna, to go work in the city. As they cross the border into Mumbai, she becomes more suspicious that instead of a job, she’s actually being trafficked. What unfurls is profoundly hard to watch and impossible to look away from.
From non-actor Albina Dahal’s unforgettable performance as Bhumika to Galey’s deeply humanist writing and directing, “Sahasi Chori” is a starkly powerful reminder that the short film remains a vital discipline in filmmaking. Just as novelists should hone their craft with short stories, filmmakers should practice honing structure with shorts.
I talked a little with writer/director Erin Galey about how she became involved with the film and her history in the region. The interview has been edited for length. The Source: How did you get involved with making “Sahasi Chori (Brave Girl)?”
Erin Galey: I attended NYU’s Tisch School of the Arts in Asia for my Master’s degree in Film Production, which, being based in Singapore, gave students many opportunities to travel in the region. When a friend heard I was in Singapore, she asked me to help make a documentary in Nepal about her organization that was helping Nepali women learn to kayak and whitewater raft guide as a career. I jumped at the opportunity as I hadn’t been to Nepal before, I loved river travel, and was fascinated by her story and the girls she was helping. On a river trip with these girls, she shared some concerns about a girl who disappeared from her program and her village. This got me very curious, and I began a detective-like journey that uncovered a hidden world in Nepal. I asked my friend if she knew a local Nepali producer so I might enlist their help and perspective, and that was how I found Binod Adhikari, who became our key local producer on the project. I explained to Binod two things — first, I wanted to talk to survivors of trafficking, so we might better understand their story, and despite this being a very awkward ask for any man in Nepal, he went out of his way to find several women willing to share their stories. I think this process had a pretty profound effect on him. Second, I explained it was important to understand how a girl would get from her tiny village in the mountains to the bustling metropolis of Mumbai, and perhaps it would be worth doing that journey together, staying only where locals might stay. He hesitated about the “only locals” request - ‘Are you sure?’ he said - which made me even more curious and encouraged that we must go. We started at his home village in the mountains outside Kathmandu, and as I got to know the local ways, I slept in a small loft
above the yaks and goats in the barn. Once we set out on the road trip, the script practically wrote itself. I still can’t thank him enough for his immeasurable contribution to the project.
tS: The performances you got from Bhumika and Krishna are pretty incredible. Were they non-actors, or did you cast them through more traditional means?
EG: Our lead, Albina Dahal, who plays Bhumika, was a non-actor. Everyone else were experienced actors. We began the search early in pre-production for an authentic Bhumika by visiting local village schools with Binod. I always wanted to work with a non-actor for the lead role as I felt it would be more authentic. There was also a lack of young actresses in Nepal her age, mostly because it’s not a traditional route for young Nepali women, so using a non-actor was a natural choice for the region.
tS: The film has such a hard-hitting and hopeless ending. What do you recommend for viewers who want to help after watching the film?
EG: First, the best thing anyone can do for young women like Bhumika is support their education. Women and girls are often last in line in their families to be considered for school, but once they go, they become more useful to the family despite the burden of losing their help at home for the years they’re in school. I really love this charity out of California called Empower Nepali Girls because the donors actually travel to Nepal and help support the girls firsthand by giving them backpacks, school clothes, books and such, and paying for their education. I think it’s something like $100-$200 USD to put a girl through school for one year, which keeps her off the streets and out of the hands of traffickers. The Unatti Foundation does similar work there. And I always love supporting Maiti Nepal, founded by CNN’s Hero of the Year 2010, Anuradha Koirala, because they are doing the on-theground anti trafficking work and rescuing girls from situations they’ve ended up in without knowing how to get out. Anuradha also supported “Sahasi Chori (Brave Girl)” in our initial fundraising stages. There are many more foundations out there but these three I have firsthand experience with and can vouch that they’re doing real and good work.
tS: What made you want to make “Sahasi Chori” as a short? Were you at all tempted to turn it into a feature?
EG: I was VERY tempted to turn it into a feature, but our resources only allowed us to make a short. The filming conditions were pretty challenging and I’m just so glad we got to make this film at all. I still look back on that shoot and think to myself, ‘wow, how did I manage to pull all of that off?!’ (And also, ‘why did I do that to myself?’ ha ha ha). Remember, this was predrones, pre-handheld stabilizers outside a steadicam (which we couldn’t afford at the time), pre-LED lights (yes, we shipped HMIs from Los Angeles), and we were working in conditions where power outages were fairly common and gas for the generator was not always easy to come by. Had we shot this story anywhere in America, it probably would have taken 10 or 11 days, and we would have had access to much more modern equipment. But due to the nature of everything being the way it is in Nepal - hiking to locations, power outages, getting gear in remote areas, travel between locationswe budgeted 18 days and really needed every minute of it. I do have a feature script for it. The short is basically a proof of concept for a feature.
tS: What are you working on now?
EG: I’m currently working on several feature projects, one of which went through Bendfilm’s: Basecamp program in 2024, and which recently won the Final Draft Big Break competition in the Science Fiction category, and was also a second rounder at both the Austin Film Festival and the Sundance Development Track. It’s called “See You See Me,” and is a grounded sci-fi thriller about a girl who wakes up from a two-year coma and is forced to face a family secret about her origins that threatens her very existence. I’m excited to shoot something at home, in English, in my favorite genre (thriller), and set in the Pacific Northwest - a place I’ve called home since making “Sahasi Chori (Brave Girl),” and which has its own beauty and dramatic underbelly. It’s a very modern and American thriller that explores our relationship with control & denial, set at the edge of grief. It takes the audience through a maze-style, heart-pounding thriller with some pretty big twists. It also truly excites me as a storyteller. We’re currently in our first round of fundraising a bit of seed money to start casting and packaging the film, so that’s all very exciting. Stay tuned!
“Sahasi Chori (Brave Girl)” now streaming on Apple Tv, Google Play and Video On Demand.
Albina Dahal in "Sahasi Chori (Brave Girl).”
Erin Galey
O OUTSIDE Lead Toxicity in the Wild Ones What
is it? Where does it come from? How can we help?
By Sue Dougherty, DVM MA DACVIM Think Wild Board President
My first experience with lead toxicity as a veterinarian was in a sweet basset hound that developed acute lead poisoning from licking lead paint dust from his paws. Currently, in the wildlife hospital at Think Wild in Bend, we see a different manifestation of the same toxicity, from an avoidable source.
In mid 2025, a subadult female bald eagle was presented to Think Wild. She was severely weak and depressed, was unable to stand, and had neurologic signs, all suggesting lead toxicity. Indeed, that was her diagnosis. She was treated with medications that work to chelate, “remove,” the lead from the body. For weeks, she required ICU care. After two months of this care, she regained enough strength for flight and release. She was lucky to have survived. Many birds with lead toxicity die despite aggressive care.
The problem of lead toxicity in wildlife extends far beyond this one bald eagle. The following statistics are from a study of 1,210 Eagles across 38 states over the course of eight years. It revealed that 47% of bald eagles and 46% of golden eagles examined had signs of chronic lead poisoning defined as lead deposition in bone. Chronic, sublethal exposures may result in diminished reproductive success, neurological issues and poor body condition. As many as 33-35% of eagles tested had acute lead poisoning defined as high levels of lead in blood and soft tissues. Leaching of lead from bones may cause the chronically affected to become clinically symptomatic because of a significant increase in blood lead levels. This may occur in response to metabolic shifts pulling calcium and hence lead deposits from bone.
“How in the world are eagles becoming poisoned by lead?” The removal of lead in our human consumer environment has been well addressed (eg. unleaded gas, lead-free paints and glazes). That being said, old homes (pre 1970) may still have lead paint. Hunting and fishing equipment are currently two major sources
of lead in the wild environment now. Lead gun shot and bullets as well as lead fishing sinkers are major sources. Direct consumption of tiny lead fragments by waterfowl sifting through mud, or mammalian and avian scavengers ingesting the lead tainted waste (offal) from a hunter’s kill are common sources of lead.
Lead bullets and shot are notorious for fragmentating. A lead fragment the size of a grain of rice may be
lethal to an adult bald eagle. Tiny lead pieces are found not only at the site of impact but often throughout the game animal, exposing scavengers. This fragmentation may also be a source of exposure for humans that consume game meat. In adult humans, the actual health risk of infrequent consumption of game meat may be small, but there is no safe blood level of lead. If lead tainted game meat is frequently consumed and pregnant women or young children are exposed, it can result in serious clinical toxicity.
Environmental and health impacts of lead shot, including widespread cases of lead poisoning in wildlife prompted increased scrutiny. This led to a 2019 U.S. ban on the use of lead shot for waterfowl hunting. California has banned lead bullets for all hunting and encourages the use of copper bullets and nontoxic gunshot. The average hunter spends $65. a year on bullets. Copper bullets cost about 35% more than lead. That small increase in cost however, will yield huge benefits in protecting the environment, our birds or prey and even humans eating game meat on a regular basis. Everyone wants the freedom to make decisions in the best way for themselves and their families. But when there is a choice that hunters can make that can make a significant, long lasting difference in the health of our environment, why not? This is to choose NONlead ammunition. Many hunters are aware of this issue and have made the smart choice to switch from lead to non-lead (copper, steel) ammunition. I personally thank you for the conscious choice!
We ALL need to strive to do things because they are “ the right thing to do,” not only for ourselves but also for those that we share this planet with. It just does not make sense to choose an option that is harmful, simply because….. you can. Please consider this and pass this information on to anyone that might be enlightened. References available on request.
This Golden Eagle receives Chelation for lead toxicity at Think Wild.
Sue Dougherty, Offleash Photography
AWAKENING YOUR INNER HERO
A COLUMN TO HELP LOCALS LIVE A KINDER AND MORE COURAGEOUS LIFE
By Burt Gershater
Two Heroes
I want to start today with what seems like the impossible. What we often believe are our limitations are surely not. In fact, they can guide us to where we were always meant to go.
When they tell you “You can’t go on that path, it is beyond you!” —grab that path as your destiny.
—Likutei Sichot
Hero #1
Just recently I met a woman, Julie Lorenzen, at the Larkspur Community Center where I do my morning workouts. The Center has become more of a holy sanctuary to me than simply a gym to exercise my aging body. She caught my attention for an obvious reason: her left leg Is amputated at the knee, and I was impressed by her diligent workout routine. So, me being me and curious about her story, I introduced myself, and we’ve spoken a few times since. We plan on continuing this connection as our days go on.
Seven years ago, there was a scuba diving accident that broke her leg. One thing led another. There was painful nerve damage that couldn’t be relieved. Finally, amputation was her only solution. All from a broken leg! What also drew me to speak to Julie was her steady smile. The little I know about her from our few interactions is that she is still skiing, mountain biking and road bike riding. She told me that her steady smile is choice. “I have so much to be grateful for in my lifetime that I choose to focus more on my gifts rather than my loss.”
Has it been easy?
Of course not.
What does easy have to do with anything important?
Her challenging days aren’t going away, but with support from many key people and her steady determination, her warm, steady smile is always close by. Sometimes closer than others.
Please send your blessings to Julie on her courageous journey.
Hero #2
A few weeks ago, a woman contacted me after reading my Inner Hero column in the Source. Another hero in my life had arrived!
If you make it a habit not to blame others, you will feel the growth of the ability to love in your soul, and you will see the growth of goodness in your life.
—Leo Tolstoy
“Hi Burt, I am writing a book entitled, “From Breakdown to Breakthrough.”*
Would you please read it and give me any suggestions you might have?” The title itself sold me on my answer. I said, “Yes, I will!” My new hero’s name is Nancy Reynolds. Once she delivered the book and I started to read it, more inspiring, heroic lights lit up around me. Our heroes are our role models!
Nancy grew up in the military world. Her dad was a pilot in the Air Force doing dangerous missions. She moved from state to state, country to country with her parents and siblings. It was a harsh and dysfunctional family. Both parents were severe alcoholics, and dad was regularly and unpredictably physically and emotionally abusive to the children. They learned to hide their horrific lives, and pretend that all was well when they went off to school each morning. They hid, frozen in their fears of more brutality if their truth ever leaked out. There were moments of joy, but terror was their domestic foundation.
Then, a miracle… Nancy was always looking for inner peace, not ever knowing where to look. Her religious experiences never panned out. Talk therapy didn’t either. Then a Kripalu Yoga Teacher Training arrived. It included both yoga skills and opportunities to share her inner life with fellow students in daily healing circles. She learned to bare her soul and release her toxic, hidden stories. Finally, Nancy was not alone! She discovered her tribe of soulmates.
The sun was finally rising.
Nancy has never left that loving, disciplined pathway to inner peace. It became clear her calling was to help others seek their truth and heal their inner wounds.
There are a lot of us out here. Thank God!
Please awaken and forever nurture your inner hero. We need you.
Blessings on your journey home!
*”From Breakdown to Breakthrough,” by Nancy Reynolds, will be available this spring on Amazon.
—Burt Gershater is a local counselor, leadership trainer, speaker and writer. He can be reached at info@burtgershater. com.
present our 4th Annual Burger Week!
Central Oregon’s most exciting culinary event returns for a full week of beefy, burgery goodness. This is your invitation to craft a specialty burger, priced at $10, which showcases your exceptional culinary talents and wows your customers.We cannot wait to share your creations with the community! The Source Weekly is proud
TAKE ME HOME
By Nathan Powers Engel Volkers Bend
Mortgage Rates in Historical Perspective Are Today’s
Rates Really That High?
With mortgage rates recently dipping slightly below 6%, many buyers are asking the same question: is that actually a good rate?
The answer depends entirely on perspective. Compared to just a few years ago, anything above 5% can feel high. But historically speaking, today’s rates are far more reasonable than many headlines — and group chats — might suggest. The real story isn’t just where rates sit. It’s how much they matter in today’s housing market compared to the past.
To understand that, it helps to rewind.
In the early 1980s, mortgage rates reached levels that feel almost unthinkable today. By 1981, the average 30-year mortgage rate climbed near 18% as the Federal Reserve fought runaway inflation. Borrowing costs were steep, but home prices were dramatically lower. The median U.S. home price sat under $70,000, meaning even sky-high interest rates were applied to loan amounts that look modest by today’s standards.
Through the 1990s and early 2000s, mortgage rates settled into what was widely considered a normal range. Rates between 6% and 8% were common, and buyers moved forward without much hesitation. For many homeowners who purchased during those years, a 7% mortgage wasn’t viewed as a setback — it was simply the market. Housing remained attainable, and steady wage growth helped support affordability.
Then came the outlier.
During the pandemic-era housing boom of 2020 and 2021, mortgage rates fell below 3% — a historic low that helped ignite one of the most
competitive real estate markets in modern history. Central Oregon experienced that surge in dramatic fashion. In 2021, homes sold for an average of 101.6% of their original list price, and properties moved in just five days on the market on average for the entire year. It was a once-in-a-generation environment that reset expectations almost overnight.
Today’s rates hovering around 6% are far closer to long-term historical norms than to the extraordinary lows of just a few years ago. But there’s one major difference between now and past decades: home prices.
While mortgage rates today are significantly lower than they were in the early 1980s, home values have risen exponentially. A 1% change in interest rate now affects a much larger loan amount than it did when homes cost a fraction of today’s prices. On a $500,000 mortgage, even a modest rate shift can dramatically change monthly payments and overall affordability. That’s why interest rates feel so important right now. It’s not just the percentage — it’s the price of the asset being financed.
The current market is less about historically high rates and more about recalibrating after an unusually low-rate era. The frenzy of 2021 was fueled by unprecedented borrowing costs, and conditions like that were never built to last.
The reality is that today’s mortgage rates aren’t historically high — but in a world of higher home prices, they’ve never mattered more. When looking to buy a home, make sure you’re working with a real estate advisor who can provide the information and guidance you need to reach your personal goals.
ASTROLOGY
By Rob Brezsny
PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): In systems theory, “critical points” are moments when long periods of small changes gradually accumulate, and then suddenly erupt into a big shift. Nothing appears to happen for a while, and then everything happens at once. Ice becomes water, for instance. I suspect you’re nearing such a pivot, Pisces. You’ve been gathering strength, clarity, and nerve in subtle ways. Soon you will be visited by what we might call a graceful, manageable explosion. The slow, persistent changes you’ve been overseeing will result in a major transition.
ARIES (March 21-April 19): Many ancient cultures had myths that explained solar eclipses as celestial creatures eating the sun. In China, the devourer was a dragon. A frog did it in Vietnam, wolves in Norse lore, and bears in several Indigenous American legends. In some places, people made loud noises during the blackout, banging drums and pots, to drive away the attacker and bring back the sun. I suspect you are now in the midst of a metaphorical eclipse of your own, Aries. But don’t worry! Just as was true centuries ago, your sun won’t actually be gobbled up. Instead, here’s the likely scenario: You will rouse an appetite for transformation that will consume outdated ideas and situations. Whatever disintegrates will become fuel for new stories. You will convert old pain and decay into vital energy. Your luminous vigor will return even stronger.
VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): You are a devotee of the sacred particular. While others traffic in vague abstractions, you understand that vitality thrives in the details. Your attention to nuance and precision is not fussiness but a form of love. I get excited to see you honor life by noticing all of its specific textures and rhythms! Now, more than ever, the world needs this superpower of yours. I hope you will express it even stronger in the coming months. May you exult in the knowledge that your refusal to treat the world carelessly or sloppily isn’t about perfectionism but about respect.
LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Architect Antoni Gaudí spent over 40 years designing Barcelona’s Sagrada Família cathedral. He knew he wouldn’t live to see it finished. It’s still under construction today, long after his death. When he said, “My client is not in a hurry,” he meant that his client was God. I invite you to borrow this perspective, Libra. See how much fun you can have by releasing yourself from the tyranny of urgency. Grant yourself permission to concentrate on a process that might take a long time to unfold. What a generous and ultimately productive luxury it will be for you to align yourself with deep rhythms and relaxing visions! I believe your good work will require resoluteness that transcends conventional timelines.
TAURUS (April 20-May 20): Maybe you have been enjoying my advice for years but still haven’t become a billionaire, grown into a potent influencer, or landed the perfect job. Does that mean I’ve failed you? Should you swap me out for a more results-oriented oracle? If rewards like those are the dreams you treasure, then yes, it may be time to search for a new guide. But if what you want most is simply to cultivate the steady gratification of feeling real and whole and authentic, then stick with me. PS: The coming days are likely to offer you abundant opportunities to feel real and whole and authentic. Take advantage!
GEMINI (May 21-June 20): In 1557, a Welsh mathematician invented the equals sign (=) to avoid repeatedly writing the words “is equal to.” Over the next centuries, this helped make algebra more convenient and efficient. The moral of the story: Some breakthroughs come not from making novel discoveries but from finding better ways to render and use what’s already known. I’m pleased to say that you Geminis are primed to devise your own equivalents of the equals sign. What strengths might you express with greater crispness and efficiency? What familiar complications could you make easier? See if can find shortcuts that aid productivity without sacrificing precision.
CANCER (June 21-July 22): One benefit of being an astrologer is that when I need a break from being intensely myself, I can take a sabbatical. My familiarity with the zodiac frees me to escape the limits of my personal horoscope and play at being other signs. I always return from my getaway with a renewed appreciation for the unique riddle that is my identity. I think now is an excellent time for Cancerians like you and me to enjoy such a vacation. We can have maximum fun and attract inspiring educational experiences by experimenting. I plan to be like a Sagittarius and may also experiment with embodying Aries qualities.
LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): In Scandinavian folklore, there’s a phenomenon called utiseta. It involves sitting out at night in a charged place in nature, like a crossroads or border. The goal is to make oneself patiently available for visions, wisdom, or contact with spirits and ancestors. I suspect you could benefit from the equivalent of a utiseta right now, Leo. Do you dare to refrain from forcing solutions through sheer will? Are you brave enough to let answers wander into your midst instead of hunting them down? I believe your strength is your willingness to be still and wait in a threshold.
SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): The ancient Chinese philosophical text known as the Tao Te Ching teaches that “the usefulness of a cup is in its emptiness.” A vessel full of itself can receive nothing. Is it possible that you are currently so crammed with opinions, strategies, and righteous certainty that you’ve lost some of your capacity to receive? I suspect there are wonders and marvels trying to reach you, Scorpio: insights, inquiries, and invitations. But they can’t get in if you’re full. Your assignment: Temporarily empty yourself. Create space by releasing cherished positions, a defensive stance, or stories about how things must be.
SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): The Yoruba concept of ashe refers to the power to make things happen. It’s the life force that flows through all things, and can be accumulated, directed, and shared. Right now, your ashe is strong but a bit scattered, Sagittarius. You have power, but it’s diffused across too many commitments and half-pursued desires. So your assignment is to consolidate. Choose two things that matter most and fully pour your ashe into them. As you concentrate your vitality, you’ll get more done and become a conduit for blessings larger than yourself.
CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): What’s holding you back? What are you waiting for? A nudge from destiny? A breaking point when you’ll be compelled to act? A hidden clue that may or may not reveal itself? It’s my duty to tell you this: All that lingering and dallying, all that wishing and hoping, is wasted energy. As long as you’re sitting still, pining for a cosmic deliverance to handle the hard parts, the sweet intervention will keep its distance. The instant you claim the authority to act, you’ll see it clearly: the path forward that doesn’t need a perfect sign, a final push, or fate’s permission slip.
AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): If you’re anything like me, you wince as you recall the lazy choices and careless passivity that speckle your past. You may wonder what you were thinking when you treated yourself so cavalierly, pushed away a steadfast ally, or let a dazzling invitation slip by. At times I feel as if my wrong turns carry more weight in my fate than the bright, gracefilled moments. Here’s good news for you, though. March is Amnesty Month for all Aquarians willing to own up to and graduate from their missteps. As you work diligently to unwind the unhelpful patterns that led you off course, life will release you from the heavy drag of those old failures and their leftover momentum.
By Brendan Emmett Quigley
Pearl’s Puzzle
Puzzle for the week of March 02, 2026
Difficulty Level:
Fill in every row, column, and 3x3 box with each of the letters B R E A K C O L T exactly once.
The highlighted letters read left to right and top to bottom will complete the quote: “Yes! It’s Daylight Saving Time. The in my will finally !” - Author unknown
Answer for the week of February 23, 2026
ANSWER TO LAST WEEK'S PUZZLES
T Y R O E M W S
E W T K M Y O R R M O W S Y T E K M W S K R T E Y O E O R Y M S W K T
Y K E W O S R M
“A real patriot is the fellow who gets a parking ticket and rejoices that the system works.” — Bill Vaughan
“A real patriot is the fellow who gets a parking ticket and rejoices that the system works.” - Bill Vaughan
