The Source Weekly April 3, 2025

Summer Camps FOR KIDS

Kids Adventure Camp

Let the adventure begin with Sunriver Resort’s Kids Adventure Camp for children ages 8-14. This full-day camp includes bike riding, a round on Gray’s Trail 18-hole putting course, and a kayak or paddle board float on the Deschutes River. Camp runs from 9:30 am until 4:30 pm and includes lunch. Dates vary, beginning May 24 and running through the end of August. See details and book online.

PXG Junior Golf Camp

The perfect opportunity for young golfers ages 7-16 to improve their game over three days of golf instruction. These camps provide half-day instruction from 9 am - 12 pm with PGA-certified instructors on all game aspects, including putting, chipping, sand play and full swing. PXG Junior Golf Camps accommodate all skill levels, and all participants will be evaluated upon arrival. Dates: June 23-25; July 7-9; July 28-30. See details and book online.

EDITOR’S NOTE:

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influenced by my time living in the South, Midwest and Pacific Northwest. I'm inspired by landscapes, architecture and the people I meet.

This piece, created for the Home & Garden issue, draws from backyard greenhouses — common in the High Desert’s unpredictable climate. Art allows me to build new worlds on paper while making sense of my own. Using ink, watercolor and pencil, I combined reference photos, inspiration from local plant shop visits and gardening books to bring this imaginary greenhouse to life. I specialize in observational drawing, travel and food illustration and portraiture, working primarily in pen and ink, watercolor and pencil. See more on Instagram @b.coyne.illu or at bridgettecoyne.com.

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Even amongst the snow flurries, spring is in the air. Waxy green stems are starting to poke through the soil in gardens around Central Oregon and those impulsive, frosty morning bursts are melting faster. Our Home and Garden Issue celebrates all these seasonal changes while encouraging you to spruce up your surroundings, inside and out. Get tips on how to garden in Central Oregon from Bend Urban Gardens and Shiv Shakti, learn about home hardening while also supporting wildlife, find out about upcoming farmers markets and read about a burgeoning effort to start a tool library in Bend. Plus, don’t miss our roundup of DIY projects, crafting and garden events. We have a book review of Oregon Poet Laureate and Source Weekly columnist Ellen Waterston’s new book before several appearances in the region for Poetry Month this April, and lots of food, brewery and restaurant news — the most important of which is that it’s Burger Week! From April 3 to 9, 25 burger joints in Central Oregon — from Bend to Tumalo to Redmond to Sisters and even Madras — will serve up 28 specialty burgers for $10 a piece. Get all the deets at bendsource.com/burgerweek

LIGHTMETER: PRESENTED BY HARVEST MOON WOODWORKS

Best Buds Winner in CO Pets Photo Contest: Jack and Zoey, longhaired

Chihuahua siblings

Age: 6 months old

Favorite treat: Cheese

Favorite toy: Stuffed floppy raccoon with squeaker for Jack; leopard-patterned snake plushie for Zoey

Favorite activity: Playing fetch and stealing socks for Jack; snuggling on laps and stealing socks for Zoey

“Jack always wants to know what is going on and wants to be at the center of the action. He is always ready and eager to show off the tricks he has learned, even when not prompted. Zoey is very affectionate and wants to be at your side or on your lap most of the time. Zoey’s fur is extra soft making her a wonderful and cuddly companion.”

Marie-Frances Woods Jones and Greg Jones

Bucking Bend’s Tree Code in the Name of Affordable Housing Sets a Poor Precedent

When a City of Bend committee crafted the City’s tree preservation code, it was nothing if it wasn’t a community-driven process. Developers were among those represented on the committee that eventually came up with various means for large developments to handle the big trees on a given plot of land — preserving some of them or paying a fee in lieu of preservation among them. In the end, some have called the watered-down version of the tree code that emerged a “license to clear cut” a property.

We saw it as a compromise that is akin to carbon credits. Now, there’s at least some level of regulation around simply clear-cutting a large property. If you do that, at least you have to pay into a fund that preserves or plants trees elsewhere in the city.

And yet, some of those very same developers balked when the code went into effect, saying the process was going to be too burdensome. Some of them banded together to appeal the tree code to the state — an appeal that they eventually dropped for reasons that remain mysterious to the general public

Now comes the next sticky situation. As reported in The Bulletin, the developer of a local affordable housing project is refusing to comply with the City’s tree code, which requires the developer to submit a tree preservation plan. The developer behind the project is Thistle & Nest, which builds homes for people to purchase at below-market rates by tapping state government funding to fill the gaps in construction costs. In this case, the property in question is an affordable housing complex that will be constructed near Murphy Road.

With this, the City is in a tough spot: Either approve the project

without its required tree preservation plan in place and effectively nullify the tree code — or deny the project and possibly see an affordable housing project fall by the wayside.

Those are homes that are certainly needed — and since they’re ones that locals would be able to purchase at rates more affordable than most anything else on the market, they’d be incredible opportunities for members of our community to achieve an American Dream that has been increasingly out of reach for so many in Bend.

But rules are rules — and in the case of the tree code, those rules were put in place through a community-driven process that brought together stakeholders from across the community, and across viewpoints. Everyone compromised a little, in the interest of making some attempt to protect Bend’s tree canopy and avoid more heat islands in the city. The City has to hold fast to its policies — until such time as those policies change. It might sound sexy to say that the big, mean City — which has been accused more than once of being slow and inefficient at approving development projects as a whole — is standing in the way of an affordable housing project. But that interpretation also smacks of opportunistic marketing. Affordable housing project or not, a democratic process was used to craft a tree preservation code on behalf of the people of Bend, and it needs to be respected.

After it’s been in place for a year, the Bend City Council will look at how well the code is meeting the goal of preserving trees, while also assessing whether it’s allowing development to progress. After that, the Council could consider changes.

Until that time, rules are rules.

Letters

SAVE THE BEES

Oregonians have a unique opportunity to help Oregon’s pollinators, wildlife and ecosystems. HB 2679 is currently proceeding through the legislature. This bill would reclassify neonicotinoids (neonics) as a restricted-use pesticide and would limit their application to licensed professionals only. This measure would significantly reduce the prevalence of neonics in the environment where bees and other native pollinators live, such as home gardens and urban landscapes.

Pollinators, including more than 500 species of bees in Oregon, are indispensable to our ecosystem and agriculture. They are responsible for pollinating approximately 80% of wild flowering plants and play a crucial role in numerous crops vital to our economy and food supply. They not only pollinate, they support entire ecosystems for countless other species.

There are various threats to pollinators. Neonicotinoids have been identified as a significant and immediate threat to them. Neonics are neurotoxins. They disrupt insects’ nervous systems. Current research indicates these same chemicals are also a risk to children. By reclassifying this pesticide, we reduce its prevalence in the environment and mitigate one of the critical factors contributing to pollinator decline and other health issues. This law has worked in 12 other states. Make Oregon strong. Please call or write your state legislators now. Show support for this bill without amendments that would weaken it. Oregon voters have a crucial opportunity through HB 2679. Keep our ecosystems healthy, vibrant and thriving.

—Barbara Rumer

AT 59 YEARS OLD, I DID NOT THINK AMERICAN DEMOCRACY WOULD DIE IN MY LIFETIME

I have never seen an attack on our democracy like this. This dismantling of our federal government by the sitting president using both illegal and unconstitutional means may be the end of our democratic republic unless widespread civic actions take place to stop it, and

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.

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political will by our other branches of government oppose and take action to stop it. The dismantling of USAID is literally killing babies and shuttering the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau will make it easier for fraudsters to take advantage of your grandmothers. Here in Bend and Oregon, our lives may depend on getting it back when the inevitable wildfire hits and there is no one there to stop it.

—Michael Regimbal

RANCH VERSUS RODEOS

With the rodeo season upon us, it’s worth remembering today’s rodeos bear little resemblance to traditional ranch work where care was taken to not injure animals. Modern rodeos are nothing more than western-themed circuses with contestants wearing John Wayne costumes and racing against the clock in a cruel spectacle for cash. It’s the animals who pay the price, from being electrically prodded to make horses and bulls appear wild by using tools like electric prods to the countless injuries animals suffer. Rodeos have added events like steer wrestling, bull riding, bucking horses, steer busting and team roping (which involves two contestants roping the head and rear legs of a steer and then pulling in opposing directions resulting in many animal injuries).

Anyone with a pulse knows it’s wrong to clothesline a baby animal at top speed, body slam it to the ground, tie its legs so it can’t move, then drag it by the neck. If this were done to a puppy or kitten, the offender would be charged with a crime, and likely be fined or jailed. The injuries are not confined to the rodeos themselves. During practice sessions, a calf may be roped repeatedly, until the calf suffers injuries that require replacement. States like California, Rhode Island and Nevada have passed laws banning or tightly regulating rodeo events, and some cities are beginning to pass ordinances that ban or restrict the rodeo’s cruelest practices. To help, let your state and local lawmakers know that you want to see similar legislation passed in your community.

—Chris Bennett

IN SUPPORT OF CLOSING CHINA HAT FOR NECESSARY WORK

I am writing to express my concerns about the request made by a homeless individual to Deschutes National Forest Supervisor Holly Jewkes, urging the prevention of China Hat’s closure, as well as advocating for the continued closure of the gates at Phil’s Trail that are slated to reopen April 1. While I understand the challenges faced by those experiencing homelessness and recognize the need to address their situation, it is equally important that we prioritize the safety of our community, wildlife and natural resources, as well as the well-being of those living in unsafe conditions in our forests.

The U.S. Forest is not a safe or suitable environment for individuals to live. These lands lack the necessary infrastructure to support homeless populations, and the risks of living in such areas are substantial. Not only are there issues related to access to basic services like sanitation, shelter and health care, but the threat of wildfires is a significant concern. Last year’s tragic events at “Dirt World,” exacerbated by homeless camps, highlighted the extreme fire hazards in these areas. Dry conditions, improperly disposed of materials and open flames or heat sources create dangerous scenarios for both the individuals living there and the broader community.

Beyond fire risks, the lack of oversight and infrastructure has led to environmental damage and incurred significant costs to the community. Homeless encampments cause destruction to the fragile ecosystems of our forests, harming wildlife habitats, water sources and overall environmental health. I’ve witnessed this firsthand at Phil’s Trail,

and it’s unacceptable. And every year it becomes worse.

Given these concerns, I respectfully request that the work at China Hat continue and the gates at Phil’s Trail remain closed to protect wildlife, the natural resources vulnerable to further degradation, peaceful and safe use for recreational users and mitigate fire risks for our community. I also urge the county to take proactive measures to ensure that individuals experiencing homelessness receive appropriate support and services. The forest is not an appropriate solution, and it is crucial that we offer individuals the care they need in a safer and more supportive environment.

—Nicole Moore Perullo

Letter of the Week:

Nicole, I agree that these environments are sensitive for both wildlife and wildfires. We must find better, safer living solutions.

—Chris Young

Crista Munro

Oregon Parks and Rec Proposes Parking Permit Changes

The Oregon Parks and Recreation Department is proposing to expand the 25% out-of-state camping surcharge to permit fees and eliminate the two-year parking permit, according to an April 1 press release.

Based on current rates, out-of-state visitors pay $12.50 per day, or $37.50 for an annual parking permit. The change would begin July 1, if approved. There would be no changes to rates for Oregon residents. The rule change would also eliminate the 24-month parking permits.

According to the press release, the proposal is part of an ongoing effort to help keep pace with rising costs while continuing to provide outdoor experiences. OPRD is accepting public comment on the proposal through April 30.

135 weeks

—The number of consecutive weeks that Josh Cordell has eaten a hamburger on Burger Fridays, from the Little Bites story, “ No Burger Left Behind”

Advocates Fear China Hat Closure Will Exacerbate Homelessness and Cause a Strain on Services

A group of advocates are calling to halt a forest project that would displace hundreds of homeless individuals

By Julianna LaFollette

Aplanned forest restoration project in south Bend, near Cabin Butte, is set to begin May 1, leading to a temporary closure of 34,600 acres. The Cabin Butte Vegetation Management Project, which includes fire treatments like forest thinning and prescribed burning, will restrict access to the area for at least one year.

As the closure looms, homeless advocates are calling to halt the project to avoid the displacement of individuals living on forest land along China Hat Road.

this potential looming crisis could have been mitigated and likely avoided,” Hemingway stated in his letter to the Forest Service.

According to Kaitlyn Webb, public affairs officer with the Deschutes National Forest, law enforcement officers have been making in-person notifications about the upcoming closure since January “to provide individuals as much time as possible to find more suitable living situations.”

“There’s a misconception that new gardens need to be installed in the spring — it’s all about planting the appropriate plants at the appropriate times.”

—Ashley Joyce of Bend

The group submitted a letter to the Bend-Fort Rock Ranger District last week, requesting the project be delayed or canceled, citing significant impacts and an uncoordinated effort to relocate those experiencing homelessness. Advocates and service providers share concerns about the pending relocations and the lack of available shelter beds and services in Bend.

The Project

While the U.S. Forest Service announced in 2022 that it would initiate a mitigation plan to help relocate those in the project area, advocate and service provider Chuck Hemingway, with local organization Home More Network, says the Forest Service has not offered guidance.

The plan, detailed in a Final Environmental Assessment, included coordination with service providers and organizations to assist in relocation efforts. Hemingway stated in his letter that the USFS had not contacted service providers like himself.

Hemingway says that Forest Service employees are telling campers to leave the area, without offering coordination with service providers.

The group, which includes Hemingway and the Bend Equity Project, a collaborative group supporting human rights efforts and offering aid, claims the project is causing involuntary displacement with no authorized place for people to go, and significant impacts to the individuals being displaced, many of whom have medical vulnerabilities or disabilities.

“Had the Forest Service set up a working group of local governments, service agencies and organizations starting in November 2022 to plan an orderly relocation response,

Dispersed camping is generally allowed on public land, for a period of two weeks at a time in a single location.

Mandy Bryant and her partner Chris Daggett have lived in China Hat for nearly three years. While the two plan to move on from Forest Service land, leaving is hard, and the current strategy, she said, is not working for people living there.

Bryant claims that Forest Service workers have been coming into camps and telling people they need to leave, but that no service providers have been involved in communications with them, besides Hemingway.

“Any one of us could end up out here. I never thought I was going to be homeless. It could happen to anyone… one bad decision, bad paycheck,” Daggett said.

Safety Near Public Lands

Oliver Tatom lives in the Sundance subdivision in south Bend, surrounded on three sides by public land. While Tatom acknowledges that the project will have effects on the people living near China Hat, he looks forward to the fire mitigation work ahead.

“When we started hearing about this Cabin Butte project, people were pretty excited about it, even though they’re closing what’s essentially our backyard for a little over a year,” he said.

According to Tatom, who serves on the Rural Fire Protection District Board, the neighborhood has an intimate experience with wildfire. He and his neighbors live on the site of the Skeleton Fire that burned 19 homes, including his family home where he resides, in 1996.

“It’s why so many people in my neighborhood are so sensitive about the danger of fire. We can’t keep pushing this off. It does impact the people that are living out there, and

—Julianna LaFollette

Urban Gardens, from the Feature story, “Turn Your Yard into an Edible Garden”

Chris Daggett stands outside the camper he shares with his partner, Mandy Bryant, and their two dogs, Bunny and Dude.

Julianna LaFollette

it’s unfortunate, but I don’t see how the Forest Service has an alternative.”

While the work will occur, essentially, in Tatom’s backyard, cutting off access to the area, he sees it as a necessity to increase safety and prevent a possible wildfire catastrophe. He hopes that on the other side of this project, everyone is safer from wildfire.

“The disruption for us is not nearly what it’s going to be for the folks who are living out there. I’m incredibly sympathetic to the people that are living out there. But on the other hand, this treatment needs to be done because of the fire risk,” Tatom said.

Nowhere to Go

While Bryant and her partner contemplate their plans for the future, they realize their options in Bend are limited.

“There’s really nowhere for people to go right now,” Bryant said. “I told the Forest Service guys, even if any of us had the money to get into a place, none of us would be approved and into a place before the first.”

Capacity is a real concern in Bend. Local facilities housing those experiencing homelessness say they’re already full.

Local organization Shepherd’s House recently reopened its renovated Bend shelter, Lighthouse Navigation Center, essentially doubling its capacity from its temporary shelter, now offering 100 overnight beds.

During snowstorms and freezing temperatures, the shelter has been able to temporarily increase its capacity to 135.

“During all of those surges, we were consistently at capacity. Right now, we have been consistently at capacity as well,” said Naomi Blair, director of Lighthouse Navigation Center.

According to Blair, the organization’s Redmond shelter is also at capacity and currently has a waiting list.

While the Lighthouse shelter, as a low-barrier overnight shelter, sees a lot of turnover as people transition into housing or otherwise move on, Blair is unsure about how local resources will accommodate individuals with the China Hat project ahead.

“It’s hard to say what to anticipate. We will do all we can to provide services for whoever walks through the door,” said Blair. “I do know a lot of our resources in town are well at capacity. Every time a new project opens up, it immediately has a long wait list, and then before even opening, has to close that wait list.”

Another upcoming project at Juniper Ridge, in north Bend, will restrict certain areas for mitigation work, but still allow camping in a section of the area.

The City of Bend and Deschutes County are collaborating on that project in Juniper Ridge, cutting off access to camping in all areas besides a designated “temporary safe stay area,” which will consist of 40 acres. Service providers are contracted to work with individuals in the area, which will offer hygiene stations and other services.

More Camping Restrictions

The closure of certain sections of land in north Bend will either force people to move into the safe stay area or leave the area altogether. With a closure at China Hat and few shelter spots, some providers, like Blair, see the safe stay area as a place where people could go.

“We don’t really know what to expect. I think the City is hoping — and we’re all hoping — that the people that are wanting to camp or don’t have other services would go to the designated area out in Juniper Ridge,” Blair told the Source Weekly.

While the City initially planned for the safe stay area to serve those already living in Juniper Ridge, Matt Stuart, the City’s real estate and facilities director, said they aren’t turning people away.

“Our goal was to focus on the people there. That was the whole intent. But obviously, we recognize that there’s other things going on,” said Stuart. “If there’s a huge influx, we may have to reassess that, just based on the ability for us to provide what we can to that area. All that will be evaluated,” he added. “We will find out here in the next month or two about those other efforts and how that might impact our area.”

The partial closure at Juniper Ridge will take effect on May 31. Moving forward, the Juniper Ridge safe stay area will eventually decrease from 40 to 20 acres. The goal is to officially close the area by the end of 2026, due to the ability to fund service providers.

In the meantime, Stuart said the City is constantly evaluating options for increasing beds and safe parking.

The City of Bend and Deschutes County will hold a joint meeting on April 28 to discuss the safe stay area.

According to Webb with DNF, implementation for the Cabin Butte project is still ongoing and the closure is still planned for May 1.

Service provider Hemingway has been contacting individuals living in China Hat and plans to continue assisting in coordination and relocation efforts, if the project continues.

Not Even Cheaper by the Dozen-Dozen Egg prices impact Bend bakeries and cafes, and your wallet

By Brian Yaeger

If a bacon, egg and cheese Hot Pocket is the Cadbury Egg of breakfast pastries, Nancy P’s Cafe & Bakery’s bacon, egg and cheese pocket is the Fabergé egg. On a recent morning in the bakery off Newport Avenue, owner Katy Clabough made mention of the skyrocketing price of eggs. Would all of Nancy P’s breakfast pockets be eggless soon? No, assures Clabough, but eggflation is the reason the morsels now cost $11.50 when they were under $10 in late 2024.

Nancy P’s is not alone. Even Waffle House — the southeast United States’s version of Bend’s Original Pancake House — recently implemented a 50-cent surcharge per egg. And while Waffle House may have some 2,000 locations, Nancy P’s baker and Clabough’s husband, Tommy Clabough, made roughly 55,000 egg pockets last year, making it the cafe’s best-selling item.

While it’s not just eggs — the price of everything in a baker’s pantry keeps going up, from flour to butter to the very packaging all those scones and cookies go in when customers take them to go — that have become a financial pain point, eggs are naturally the focal point. After all, the current president made it a cornerstone of his campaign that they’re too expensive, and in his short return to office, instead of wielding his power to halve the cost, the price has doubled.

A Facebook group called Costco Bend Deals had taken to sharing news not of how much eggs cost at the big-box store, but whether or not they were even available. And exacerbating the egg debacle is the long-lasting outbreak of bird flu, as reported locally by OPB.

Clabough says she was paying $78 for a case (15 dozen or 180 eggs) of local, organic eggs in December. After a stint paying close to $180, she says they have started

to come down. Nancy P’s goes through roughly 10 cases per week, she says. “We were eating it all that time,” Clabough says. “It was more important to have other people, our customers, still be able to afford to come here.”

A mile away at Village Baker off SW Century Drive, which opened four years ahead of Nancy P’s in 1997, founder Lauren Kurzman is taking the inflation in stride. “Everything is higher than it’s ever been,” she says. But such is the case with all commodities. Leafing through invoices from the past few years kept by Kurzman’s mother, LeAnn, Village Baker shows that it paid $47 for a case of eggs in early 2022, and $99.50 a year later. It was down to $74.25, or 25% less, a year after that, meaning one year ago. Of course, Village Baker is paying double that these days.

“I look at the highest cost and set prices on that. I’m not raising them in an emergency for the next few months.” She says she’s paying about 25% more for butter now and nearly triple for flour. When there’s more flour and butter in her treats than eggs, even in egg-heavy menu items like her signature shortbread cookies, eggs aren’t top of mind.

Of course, not all bakeries double as cafes the way Nancy P’s does. And not every bakery goes through the same amount of these primary commodities. And, typically, reactionary price increases are like gravity: When they go up, they usually come back down, too.

Back at Nancy P’s, Clabough just wants this egg epoch to end and Bend’s telltale kindness to continue: “People understanding that these issues facing small businesses are real and changing all the time,” Clabough says. “So be kind. No small business owner is raking in cash hand over fist by raising the price by a buck.”

Nancy P’s Katy Clabough behind her pastry case.

Brian Yaeger

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Redmond Launches New Tourism Campaign

By Julianna LaFollette

The City of Redmond launched a new tourism campaign last week in an effort to increase yearround visitation. The new campaign, Destination Redmond, promotes Redmond as “Oregon’s Basecamp,” giving visitors the opportunity to experience everything the region has to offer, due to its location in the heart of Central Oregon.

The first major part of this campaign is the Destination Redmond website, which launched last week, along with a paid ad campaign happening concurrently, according to Matt Watson, CEO of Watson Creative, the agency contracted to market tourism in Redmond.

all summer. We have the fairgrounds, we’ve got great things happening in the region. So, our occupancy stays really high from June... pushing into October these days. But in the off-season, we need a little help,” Colvin told the Source Weekly.

As the campaign continues to move ahead, it will expand the Destination Redmond events section and its list of restaurants and activities around the city. It will also focus on more photo and video shoots to highlight what Redmond has to offer. The agency will then begin to measure visitor data given to it from the Redmond Municipal Airport, the Deschutes County Fairgrounds and some hotels to see how the campaign is tracking.

“All the work that we’re doing is very much inspired by and based upon data and a lot of the workshops and insights we gathered from the community at large,” Watson told the Source Weekly.

The City’s Tourism and Lodging Advisory Committee saw the need for a tourism campaign in Redmond and has been coordinating with Watson Creative over the last year, according to Tobias Colvin, current committee chair and director of SCP Hotel in downtown Redmond.

Watson Creative spoke to several stakeholders in the region, Colvin said, and the tourism committee played a big part in helping with branding and messaging to attract people to the area.

According to Colvin, this new promotion is necessary for bringing people into Redmond, particularly during its off-season in the winter months when there’s less tourism.

“As a hotelier myself, we see that we’re really busy

The City of Redmond formerly contracted with the Redmond Chamber for its marketing services. However, in June 2024, the City decided to redirect tourism tax dollars to a new contracted agency, Watson Creative, to develop a more robust marketing effort.

According to Heather Cassaro, the City’s director of communications, the City of Redmond contracts with Watson Creative to provide services for its tourism marketing arm, Destination Redmond, which is managed by the Redmond Lodging and Tourism Advisory Committee.

The Chamber, which received about $350,000 in tourism tax dollars from the City before it terminated the contract, previously stated that the change in allocation created a gap in the services it can provide to visitors and community members.

Today, the Chamber no longer does any advertising or tourism promotion, according to Redmond Chamber Executive Director Eric Sande. The Chamber, which previously held a number of holiday events and operated as the Official Redmond Visitor Guide, will now hold events that are Chamber-focused and will continue to operate its Visitor Center, a local information center.

“We think it’s a vital service that needs to be provided, so we’re continuing to do that without funding. But our members depend on tourism, so we’ll continue to support our members and help them the best we can,” Sande said.

SOAP MAKING MAKE SOAP FROM SCRATCH School of Ranch is hosting a workshop where you can make your very own handmade soap from scratch. In the workshop, you’ll make eight bars of soap total, one for your face, one for your hands and one that’s made for dishes. Sat., April 5, 9am-Noon at OSU Extension. 3800 SW SE Airport Way, Bldg. 3, Redmond. $40.

Watson Creative

Shakti Farms Cultivating a sustainable future in Central Oregon

By Joshua Savage

If Shiv Shakti isn’t yet a household name in Central Oregon, he should be. The man is on a mission. His goal? To put Bend on the map as a model of self-sustainability where citizens have access to fresh, healthy and locally grown food.

Shakti’s passion for agriculture began in Punjab, India, a region known for its fertile lands and abundant crops like wheat and cotton. You could say a natural love of farming is ingrained in him. After serving in the merchant navy and traveling extensively, he eventually settled in Corvallis, Oregon, where he initially attempted to become a green thumb.

“I tried to grow coffee,” he says. “My plants were about this big.” The space he holds up between his thumb and index finger signify a short, three-inch plant.

Frustrated, he applied the discipline he had gained from the military to his studies. Every morning, he woke up at 4am and dedicated at least a couple of hours to learning about permaculture and sustainable agriculture. Years later and through much trial and error, his dedication and hard work have paid off, and he now runs a business.

Shakti Farm Design specializes in constructing greenhouses for both private and public sectors, customizing each project to meet specific needs. His expertise extends to designing Zen gardens, merging aesthetic beauty with the natural landscape. A recent example of his work is at Three Rivers School in Sunriver, where his greenhouse has become a classroom to teach children how to grow their own food and take ownership of their own health.

“Our current paradigm of food production is neither sustainable nor healthy. We need to shift our focus from mass production to communitydriven agriculture.”

—SHIV SHAKTI

Beyond design and construction, Shakti frequently shares his knowledge through lectures and public speaking engagements. In a recent TEDx Talk, he outlined his vision for a future where sustainable greenhouse systems revolutionize food production. His influence is expanding beyond Oregon, reaching communities in Idaho, Illinois and beyond.

Shakti likes to test the boundaries of what can be grown in Central Oregon. Despite our region’s challenging climate, he attempts to cultivate exotic crops such as avocados, kiwis, artichokes and mushrooms — and he succeeds! Most of us would assume these plants could never thrive in our high desert environment.

When I ask about sustainable practices and suggestions for the average person wanting to grow, he quickly replies: “Building soil is the foundation of everything.”

He’s adamant about not using pesticides or fertilizers. Instead, he incorporates properly made compost, biochar, hügelkultur (building mounds or small hills) and other natural techniques to create well-balanced, healthy soil. The soil maintains its balance through methods like companion planting, which basically means that some plants have a natural symbiosis and grow better together. For example, parsley, basil, oregano, peppers and onions are a good mix. Tomatoes, cannabis and strawberries grow well together. And marigolds are a natural pest repellent.

To Shakti, companion planting represents more than just smart agriculture: It

to build these sustainable systems within the community. He regularly reaches out to local nonprofits, like NeighborImpact, Central Oregon Locavore and the Roundhouse Foundation in Sisters, to discuss things like distribution systems for locally grown products. Shakti has also spoken with Warm Springs community leaders about improving their access to nutritious, locally sourced foods. Plus, by studying the diets and farming techniques of Indigenous communities, he hopes to reintroduce historically successful growing methods to modern farming practices — a blend of ancient wisdom and modern technology.

Shakti envisions a future where public food gardens and greenhouses are commonplace in Central Oregon. What might this look like? Here are some ideas:

• Utilizing empty lots for community gardens

• Incorporating edible landscapes into new developments

• Designating spaces within Bend Park and Recreation for urban agriculture

• Creating school-based agricultural programs

• Developing vertical farming techniques for urban areas

For these ideas to take shape and become reality, we must have the support of local government and engaged citizens. In fact, everyone can contribute to this movement. We can start with our own backyard gardens and collaborate with our neighbors. We can advocate for local food policies and volunteer with local nonprofits. Crowdfunding initiatives could finance the development of public greenhouses, ensuring fresh produce is accessible to all. Ultimately, the goal is to establish a network of local food hubs, making it easier for all communities to source fresh, organic produce year-round.

Bend is well known for its active, health-conscious population, yet much of the food available here is not sustainably sourced. Shakti argues that investing in local, nutrient-dense food production is more cost-effective than dealing with the longterm health consequences of poor diets.

He states, “Our current paradigm of food production is neither sustainable nor healthy. We need to shift our focus from mass production to community-driven agriculture.”

His charisma and passion inspire me to get outside and work in my own garden. (And I have to admit, I’m a bit jealous of anyone who can grow kiwis in Central Oregon.) When I see the potential for transforming Central Oregon into a self-sufficient community and a model for other areas, I get excited. I feel our community already has a good start. Through innovation, education and collective action, we can all play a role in “greening the desert” and cultivating a healthier, more vibrant future. Shakti Farms is not just about growing food. It’s about growing a movement. Let’s make it happen!

Shiv Shakti, above, hard at work creating a greenhouse at Three Rivers School in Sunriver. Right, Three Rivers students can reap the rewards of gardening.

Turn Your Yard into an Edible Garden

Ashley Joyce, founder of Bend Urban Gardens, gives us the scoop on growing veggies in Central Oregon

By Skylor Young

Ifirst found Bend Urban Gardens, also known as BUG, last spring at downtown’s Earth Day Fair. I’ve been gardening for the last six years, but in a very different climate than what we have here in Bend. I was immediately drawn to BUG’s vendor booth because I’m a fish out of water when it comes to growing vegetables in the high desert. I had a lot of questions and didn’t know where to start.

After chatting with Ashley Joyce, founder of BUG, about whether gardeners can plant directly into the ground in Central Oregon (if you’ve wondered that too, keep reading!), I jokingly said, “If only you could come to my house and tell me exactly what to do to ensure my garden is set up for success.” Low and behold, two weeks later, there she was — doing exactly what she’s built her thriving business around: helping me turn my yard into an edible garden space.

BUG has resources for everyone from gardening aficionados to first timers, with on-site consultations, personalized crop plans and veggie garden lessons. If hardware is what you need, no problem: Joyce and her team of hard-working humans build raised beds to suit individual garden needs, with all the necessary pest-protection netting and season extenders for Central Oregon. You can also get grow bags for patios and balconies, microgreen kits for indoor growing and plant starts.

I’ve learned so much from working with BUG, and I’m certain there are plenty of readers who are just like I was a year ago: excited to grow food without any clue where to start. With hopes of empowering new gardeners to break ground, Joyce has shared four considerations to help you lay the foundation to transform your yard into a thriving veggie garden.

ACCESS

First and foremost, your garden must be accessible if you’re going to be working in it daily. “Access can easily become a barrier to gardening, despite all the initial motivation and good intentions you might have when getting started,” Joyce explains. “Is the location already in a spot that is visited or seen in your current daily rhythms or is it hidden away in a side yard that is mostly ignored or a location far away from your kitchen door? If the only sunny location you have is in more of a hidden location, then you’ve

Quick Gardening Tips for Central Oregon

3 VEGGIES TO START FROM SEED & WHEN: Radishes, arugula, spinach

Plant them as soon as the soil temperature is consistently 45 degrees in the spring, and then again in mid August to early September for a fall harvest.

PRO TIP: Try direct sowing and transplanting kohlrabi and bok choy on the same day once the soil temp warms up to 45 degrees. Once the direct seeded crops reach microgreen size, thin them out for a bonus harvest. Harvest the rest once they reach full maturity.

3 VEGGIES TO PLANT FROM STARTS & WHEN: Broccoli, cabbage, tomatoes

got to go with it, but ideally, your garden won’t be in a location that could easily become out of sight, out of mind.”

SUNLIGHT

Next, consider sunlight. Generally speaking, a location with at least six hours of daily sunlight during the peak growing season is best. If that’s not possible, your focus can be more shade-tolerant vegetables. Joyce recommends using the Sun Seeker app, which tells you how much sunlight a location gets throughout the year.

SOIL

Then there’s soil… or, for Central Oregon, a lack thereof. “Our native Central Oregon soil, which we jokingly call moondust, doesn’t tend to be rich in organic matter and is typically sandy, so it doesn’t hold on to water very well,” Joyce says. Fortunately, building raised beds for your annual veggies nips that problem in the bud (pun intended) because you can source soil more suitable for growth. A mixture of 50/50 topsoil and compost will improve the soil’s fertility and water-holding capacity, which is a great option for raised beds and planters.

If you do decide to plant in the ground, however, expect it to take about five growing seasons of conditioning for the soil to be ready for vegetable gardening, Joyce says. Use compost and cover crops to increase the soil fertility. Planting perennials is another way to increase the nutrient density, which aren’t practical options for raised beds. Just be mindful of deer, who eat just about everything under the sun, so that means adding physical barriers like fencing or hoop houses to limit their access.

TIME

Finally, let’s talk about time. What we’re able to grow is shaped by how much time we have to grow it, which we call the growing season. Normally, the growing season can be measured by the USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map, which tells us what plants are likely to survive and thrive in an area’s climate based on the average minimum temperatures each year. Central Oregon is technically zone 6b, but our area is unique. As Joyce explains, “This classification system doesn’t take into account that we can get freezing temperatures any day of the year, not just in the

Plant broccoli and cabbage from May to July when soil temp is consistently 45 degrees. Plant tomatoes in June, though the exact date will be determined by the season.

PRO TIP: If you aren’t growing your own starts, get them from a source that has short-season varieties that have been hardened off, or acclimated to the outdoors, locally.

3 PLANTS TO BE SAVED FOR THE MASTER GARDENERS: Melons, winter squash, cauliflower

PRO TIP: These plants need long seasons, which make them hard for our climate. Use season extenders to increase your chances for success for these plants.

3 COMMON GARDENING MISTAKES

PLANTING TOO EARLY: Planting cold-sensitive plants too early in the spring can put them at risk of dying off in unexpected (or, in this climate, quite common) frosts. If you’re unsure when to plant, ask the experts where you got your seeds or starts.

BAD IRRIGATION: When soaker hoses clog, or when the system is not distributing water evenly throughout a garden bed, the irrigation is ineffective. This can be hard to troubleshoot as a variable impacting your plants because the system is built in, so be sure your irrigation system is working well before planting.

OVERWATERING: The roots of your plants are where the soil needs to be moist. When gardeners don’t feel their soil down in the root zone, but instead notice that the top of their soil looks dry, they supplement their drip irrigation with hand watering even though the roots have plenty of water in the root zone. The only time this is really needed is when trying to get seeds to wake up and germinate, so be sure to feel all the way down to the root zone for mature plants before increasing your water supply.

Thanks to Ashley Joyce of Bend Urban Gardens for these resourceful tips.

Ashley Joyce, founder of Bend Urban Gardens, right, and her client work in the garden.

Bend Urban Gardens

winter. So, we advise gardeners to choose perennials that are actually rated for zones 3 to 5, as they will likely be more resilient when temps drop when they are not in dormancy during the growing season!”

The growing season can be manipulated by microclimates, which are physical differences on an individual property that impact temperature, humidity and sunlight. These alterations can make it easier or harder to grow specific vegetables. Microclimates can be created intentionally with greenhouses, hoop houses, cold frames or retaining walls to help extend your season with warmer temperatures and protection from frost. Blacktops, pavers, concrete or gravel pathways retain

heat as well. Nearly every part of your yard can be utilized in a resourceful way for your garden to grow, and Joyce gives this example: “Maybe you have a dryer vent that is located near a spot where you could plant a fruit tree! Run your dryer on cold nights when the tree is in bloom to create a warmer microclimate to prevent the blossoms from freezing.”

Speaking of time, when is the right time to start your garden? Now. Or later. When works for you?

“There’s a misconception that new gardens need to be installed in the spring. Succession planting is definitely possible with the use of season extension tools. It’s all about planting the appropriate plants at

A Library, But for Tools

the appropriate times. You can even harvest through winter in Central Oregon with season extension tools. Fall can be a fabulous time to build and plant a garden in Central Oregon.”

So, what are you waiting for? Get your gardening gloves on, get outside and start seeing your yard for what it really is: a thriving veggie garden waiting to happen!

Bend Urban Gardens 541-728-3105 bendurbangardens.com

Locals start effort to open a tool library in Bend, which would allow people to borrow tools for use in home projects

By Julianna LaFollette

Alocal group is working toward creating a tool library in Bend, offering a simple way for residents to utilize a variety of tools for their DIY home improvements, yard work or other projects. Tool libraries typically work like traditional libraries, but instead of books, they lend out home-repair and gardening tools free of charge.

Bend resident and owner of Unofficial Logging Co., John Heylin, had previously heard of tool libraries and always thought it would be a good idea for Bend. He also saw a need for these services — the desire to simply use a tool without having to borrow from a neighbor, rent from a hardware store or buy a tool that takes up space.

“The idea came from seeing it and then just realizing that it would be so much easier for people if they didn’t have to spend all this money on tools, if they could just share tools,” Heylin told the Source Weekly.

After contacting the Deschutes Public Library Board, Heylin started working with Tony Grzesik, who runs the Makerspace at the Redmond library. The two then started a community survey to gauge interest.

“Tony and I got together, and we’ve just been running full speed ever since,” Heylin said. “Right now, we’re very early stages. The most important thing is the survey — just to figure out: What does the community want?”

After creating the survey about two weeks ago, Heylin shared it with friends and community leaders and immediately received about 200 responses. That number keeps growing with about 350 positive responses as of March 28.

Heylin hopes to reach about 500 responses to determine the level of interest and what tools people are looking for.

“I might think that everyone wants a weed whacker, but we might do the survey and find out people actually want jackhammers. So, we just want to make sure this thing starts out on the right foot.”

Portland has multiple tool libraries around the city that offer people access to tools for residents of all income levels.

The Northeast Portland Tool Library is one example, operating as a community-led nonprofit run out of the basement of a church.

While Bend doesn’t yet have a tool library, the Deschutes Public Library has a Library of Things, which offers different items for residents to borrow, from crafting or knitting supplies, to sports and outdoor gear and baking or kitchen appliances.

While Heylin is still unsure about next steps, or how they will get this plan off the ground, he continues meeting with locals to discuss the options in making this idea a reality. The group has meetings lined

up to parse through survey results. Heylin will also meet with local residents, organizations and stakeholders who responded to the survey.

“I don’t really know what to expect from the meeting(s), but I just really want to pick their brain and see if they’re interested in helping; and if not, if they could just give us some advice and maybe some connections to get this thing going,” Heylin said.

Joyce sitting amongst BUG-built beds full of vegetables—tomatoes growing on a vine and radishes freshly pulled from the dirt.

SOURCE PICKS

THURSDAY 4/3

AUTHOR! AUTHOR! PRESENTS ELLEN WATERSTON

DESCHUTES PUBLIC LIBRARY HOSTS OREGON’S POET LAUREATE

Part of the library’s three-part literary series and fundraiser, Ellen Waterston is a special guest for this Author! Author! event. Waterston was named Oregon Poet Laureate in 2024 and is speaking about her latest book, collections of poetry and more. Thu., April 3, 7-8:30pm at Caldera High School. 60925 SE 15th St., Bend. $35.

FRIDAY 4/4

LOGE CAMPS: LIVE MUSIC HAPPY HOUR

AN EVENING OF MUSIC, FOOD AND DRINKS

Located on the way to Mt. Bachelor, LOGE Camps is hosting an evening of live music and $5 draft from Deschutes Brewery, plus snowboard demos and free gear wax. Enjoy a happy hour accompanied with food by Parrilla Grill to top the evening off. Fri., April 4, 4-8pm at LOGE Bend. 19221 SW Century Dr., Bend. Free.

FRIDAY 4/4

SCREENAGERS: ELEMENTARY EDITION FILM SCREENING

A FILM TO INSPIRE

Check out a showing of the film “Screenagers: Elementary School Age Edition” hosted by Well Wired, a healthy tech advocacy group and family community in Central Oregon, and the Waldorf School of Bend. Following the film, there will be an expert Q&A panel with local mental health professionals talking about safe screen use. Fri., April 4, 5:30-7pm at Waldorf School of Bend. 2150 NE Studio Rd., Ste. 2, Bend. Free.

FRIDAY

JUNACO AND PALO SOPRAÑO

2 INDIE-ROCK BANDS TAKE THE STAGE

The Los Angeles-based trio Junaco crafts a dreamy, ethereal sound that captivates listeners with soothing melodies and introspective lyrics. The band makes a stop in Bend on its tour with special guest Palo Sopraño for a night of indie tunes. Fri., April 4, 7pm at Webfoot Garage at Silver Moon Brewing. 24 NW Greenwood Ave., Bend. $12.

FRIDAY 4/4

BON BON VIVANT WITH JET BLACK PEARL

BOOGIE WITH BON BON VIVANT

The genre-bending band from New Orleans Bon Bon Vivant blends pop, Americana and dark ballads with up-tempo indie music. Get ready to dance at The Belfry along with special guest Jet Black Pearl. Fri., April 4, 7-10pm at The Belfry. 302 E Main Ave., Sisters. $20.

SATURDAY 4/5

RUN FOR THE NATIONS 5K

A FAMILY-FRIENDLY RUN/WALK

Looking for a fun 5K? The Run for the Nations 5K is a family-friendly run/walk with professional timing and a separate one-mile race for kids. The international-themed race benefits global outreach partners Sat., April 5, 7-10am at Old Mill District. 450 SW Powerhouse Dr., Bend. $25.

SATURDAY 4/5

SPRING MAKERS MARKET

A MARKET CELEBRATING CREATIVITY AND SUSTAINABILITY

Pop by Immersion Brewing’s Spring Makers Market, featuring live music, delicious food, local vendors, raffles, flash tattoos and more, with proceeds benefitting The Environmental Center. Sat., April 5, 3-7pm at Immersion Brewing. 550 SW Industrial Way, Ste. 185, Bend. Free.

SATURDAY 4/5

399: QUEEN OF THE TETONS FILM SCREENING

A FILM ABOUT A BELOVED GRIZZLY BEAR

Join a BendFilm Festival encore event featuring a film screening about Grizzly 399, one of the most famous and photographed bears in the world. Watch the beloved bear navigate through a changing climate, raising her cubs amongst the threat of losing her protection under the Endangered Species Act. Sat., April 5, 6:30pm at Tower Theatre. 835 NW Wall St., $18.

SATURDAY 4/5

DO YOGA OUTSIDE 2025 LAUNCH PARTY

A KICKOFF TO AN OUTDOOR YOGA SERIES

Emily from Do Yoga Outside is hosting a launch party for her upcoming outdoor yoga series kicking off this spring and running into summer. Learn all about this year’s offerings, get exclusive discounts and enter raffles and giveaways from local vendors. Sat., April 5, 6-8pm at Alpenglow Park. 61049 SE 15th St., Bend. $5.

McKenna Palmer

Jeshua Marshall

Evvnt

Elisde Furgurson

DoYogaOutside

Just 10 minutes from Downtown Bend!

S SOUND

TOld 97’s: Three Decades and Counting

The Dallas quartet decamped to Portland to record last year’s “American

Primitive,”

the 13th record in its storied

By Dave Gil de Rubio

ony Bennett once said, “Fame comes and goes. Longevity is the thing to aim for.”

Apparently, Rhett Miller and the rest of the Old 97’s were paying attention to Mr. Bennett. This year marks the 33rd anniversary of the Dallas quartet, which formed in 1992 when Miller joined forces with guitarist Ken Bethea, bassist Murry Hammond and drummer Philip Peeples. Miller proudly wears this badge of honor, particularly with the arrival of the band’s 13th studio album, “American Primitive.”

“When we started working on this album, I started thinking what are the strengths of the Old 97’s?” Miller shared in a mid-March interview. “It’s sort of the shorthand/ESP kind of communication we have with each other after 32 years. We know what each of us are going to do, we know how to play off each other and we know what to expect. I felt like that was really strong and one of the things that makes us really special. It’s easy to think: What does the market want? What do the radio programmers want? And then try and retroactively build your band into the thing they want. But I just feel like that’s such a recipe for disaster.”

For “American Primitive,” the Old 97’s decamped to Portland, and producer Tucker Martine’s studio. With virtually no preproduction involved (a first for the group), the sessions were done by the seat of the band’s pants. A relatively painless process, the basic recording took a couple of weeks and included guest appearances by R.E.M.’s Peter Buck and Scott McCaughey of The Young Fresh Fellows and The Minus 5. It was quite a homey experience for the Old 97’s.

catalog

“It was really all off the cuff,” Miller explained. “We would sit down, I would teach the band a song. Over the course of a few hours, we would feel our way until we landed on what you hear on the album essentially. There are a few overdubs. I would sweeten the vocals a little bit. But it’s almost all off the floor. Then later, we obviously had Peter Buck come in and play some guitar on it as well as Scott McCaughey. They were so great.”

“It was great working with Peter,” Miller added. “We’d go and have dinner at his house, where we’d hang out with Scott in Peter’s basement with all his vintage guitars and hear all his stories. It was really inspiring.”

The baker’s dozen of tunes that make up “American Primitive” resonate with the kind of roots-rock manna music lovers have come to expect from the Old 97’s. From the reverb-soaked opener “Falling Down,” which finds guitarist Bethea channeling Link Wray, the aforementioned band chemistry Miller referenced is in full evidence. Gems range from “Where The Road Goes,” with its gentle jangle that frames a message of wanderlust, to the singalong stomp of “Somebody” to the rambunctious snappiness of “This World.” Capping it all off is “Estuviera Cayendo” (which translates to falling down), a beautiful instrumental piece played by guest flamenco guitarist Jeff Trapp of Silverton. While the quality of the new material has got Miller jazzed about hitting the road, this go-round is all the more special given how the 54-year-old singer/songwriter is coming off a major surgical procedure.

“Going back on the road now is sort of a triumphant element for me because I’m at the end of a four-month, forced hiatus after vocal cord surgery,” he said. “I’ve got all my vocal range back after having lost large swaths of it. I can sing all

of those notes again. It’s crazy, having grown up singing my whole life, you take for granted that you can hit any note you want to hit within a certain range. I lost that for the last couple of years and it was incredibly frustrating. When I did the vocal cord surgery, I found that the cyst on my vocal cord was even larger than they anticipated. Any surgery on anything that small, delicate and essential to my livelihood is scary. There was a part of me subconsciously really worried that I might never sing again or get onstage again, because that kind of thing happens.”

The live shows present a unique challenge. Given the Old 97’s longevity, the band has to strike a balance between hitting all the high points of the back catalog while not ending up playing shows of Springsteenian length.

“I kind of know what the tentpoles are for the set list,” Miller said. “As the set list maker, I’m going to sneak in a few deep cuts and surprise songs every night, which totally change from night to night. Then we have to kind of hit the main songs. We’ve got ‘Good With God,’ which is a duet I recorded with Brandi Carlile off our 2017 album “Graveyard Whistling.” We kind of do that every night. And then there is the obvious stuff from [the 1997 album] “Too Far to Care,” which was considered the highwater mark of our band. We have to play five or six songs off that album every night.”

Miller admitted, “I don’t think our audience would want us to do threehour sets.” He elaborated, “We generally keep it to around two hours. If it’s a weeknight, it might be one hour and 45 minutes. There are young people that show up night after night. We’ve been handed to the next generation in a lot of ways. But the core audience is still getting older. We can’t play three hours and expect people to be excited about it.”

When you ask the Texas native about his band’s longevity, Miller will tell you that it always comes back to making music while maintaining the kind of rare chemistry most groups don’t achieve even over a lengthy stretch of time, never mind three decades-plus and counting.

“You don’t get to claim the unbroken status unless you continually put out records,” he said. “That’s part of our contract with our fans, ourselves and, literally, our record label. We continue to make and release albums. For me, it’s great, because I’m going to be writing songs regardless, so I need albums on which to place those songs. I did sort of have to cajole Ken, our guitarist, to go back into the studio. And I’m glad I did because I feel like this album is a real showpiece for his specific talent. I feel like it shines through on this record so strong.”

Old

The long-running Old 97’s hit Bend’s Domino Room on Wednesday, April 9.

Old 97's

TRIPDREAM

Help Clothe a Child In Deschutes County

Tickets are $30 each | Only 1,000 available

Ticket sales run March 1 - April 15, 2025

Buy your tickets online at AssistanceLeagueBend.org

Drawing: April 17, 2025 at 11 am 210 SE Urania Lane, Bend, OR

All proceeds support children facing hardship in Deschutes County

Don’t miss your chance - 1 in 1,000 odds to win!

Dolce Villa, Tuscany

nights for 6 guests 3-bed, 3-bath villa with pool

Tuscan cooking class

walking tour of Cortona

& Universal Studios for Family

Day pass to Disneyland One Day pass to Universal Studios 4 nights for 2 adults, 2 children

Here!

CALENDAR

2 Wednesday

The Cellar Wednesday Jam Sessions Drink some fine cask or imported beers and try some amazing British pies while listening to local musicians jam out. 6:30-8:30pm. Free.

Crosscut Warming Hut No 5 Erin

Cole-Baker Relax with a pint and enjoy great local music from Erin-Cole Baker. 6-8pm. Free.

Deschutes Brewery & Public House

Head Games Trivia Night Eat. Drink. Think. Win! Head Games multi-media trivia is at Deschutes Bend Public House every Wednesday. Win prizes. Teams up to six. 6:30-8:30pm. Free.

M&J Tavern Open Mic Night Downtown living room welcomes musicians to bring their acoustic set or turn it up to eleven with the whole band. Bring your own instruments. Goes to last call or last musician, whichever comes first. 21+. 6:30pm. Free.

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

Northside Bar & Grill Mellow Wednesday Acoustic Open Mic and Jam hosted by Derek Michael Marc Sign-up sheet is available at 6:30pm. 7-9pm. Free.

Pinky G’s Pizzeria MUSIC BINGO Join music Bingo (think Bingo and Name that Tune). Great food, cold drinks and good times. Free to play and prizes for each round winner. 6-8pm. Free.

Ponch’s Place Bingo Wednesdays Enjoy bingo at Ponch’s Place on Wednesday’s. 5-7pm. Free.

Portello Wine and Spirits Midweek Music Lounge w/Mark Creech Break up the midweek slump with great cocktails, food, wine, and live music featuring local favorite, Mark Creech! 6-8pm. Free.

Prost! Bend Trivia Prost! UKB Trivia is now at Prost! Genuine UKB Trivia is no average trivia night! Meet up with friends, win gift card prizes for top teams! Enjoy Prost’s authentic beer and food menu. Trivia is free to play, with no buy-ins! 7-9pm. Free. Silver Moon Brewing METALACHI & Guests Born from a long night of music, Skrewball whiskey, and mariachi-loving metalheads, Metalachi has been entertaining audiences and wooing abuelas everywhere for over a decade. 6pm. $18/$22.

The Capitol The Capitol Karaoke Music Weekly Karaoke at its finest! Central Oregon’s Premiere karaoke experience has just moved locations! Now at the Capitol! Come get immersed with a stage and sound system Plenty of space! Drink specials! Air guitars! Come see for yourself! It’s a habit! 8pm-1am. Free.

The Commonwealth Pub The Dust Devils The Dust Devils - Stu Kinzel (Cascade Blues Hall of Fame) teams up acoustic/resonator guitars with Jim Roy (mandolin/guitar) and Maggie Jackson (bass). This upbeat trio plays eclectic blues, swing and some familiar country tunes. 7:30pm. Free.

3 Thursday

Austin Mercantile Live Music Every Thursday Join at Austin Mercantile for live music every Thursday. Offering a light happy hour menu — daily flatbread, chili, charcuterie, soft pretzels and more! 4:30-6:30pm. Free.

play. Indoor and outdoor seating available. 63063 Layton Ave, Bend. 6:30-8:30pm. Free.

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

Crave Bend COMEDY OPEN MIC NIGHT Comedy

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

Deschutes Brewery & Public House

Stand Up Comedy It’s time for Stand Up Comedy with Soul of Wit Productions! Get ready to laugh until your sides hurt at this hilarious night of comedy. Join us on First Thursdays at the Deschutes Brewery Bend Public House! **Headliners include Geoff Tate, Kermet Apio, & Susan Rice** First Thursday of every month, 7-9pm. $25.

Elements Public House Trivia Night at Elements Public House with QuizHead Games Come be all you can be with Trivia Night every Thursday from 6-8pm! Featuring QuizHead. games. Located at the north end of Redmond. Full bar and great food! 6-8pm. Free.

Ponch’s Place Trivia Thursdays with Quizhead Games Trivia Thursdays at Ponch’s Place with QuizHead Games. 5-7pm. Free.

River’s Place Chasing Ebenezer World folkrock with influences from Celtic, African, and Middle Eastern music. 6-8pm. Free.

Silver Moon Brewing Trivia on the Moon

Come down to Silver Moon Brewing for a night of trivia! Teams are welcome to show up in groups up to 8 people. Silver Moon also offers seating reservations for $20 donations that all go to F*Cancer! If you would like to reserve a table please contact the Trivia on the Moon Facebook page. 7pm. Free.

Stihl Whiskey Bar The Brandon Campbell Trio Live Gypsy Swing with The Brandon Campbell Trio at Stihl Whiskey Bar! 7-9pm. Free.

Stoller Wine Bar Bend Barringer & Baker Mark Barringer; guitar and vocals, and Bob Baker; violin, are back again at their favorite Bend hang. They bring to life creative musical arrangements of songs from the ‘60s, ‘70s and ‘80s. Reservations are recommended and can be made at the Stoller website. 6-8pm. Free.

The Commonwealth Pub Twin Engine Dail Croome and Daren McGavren both have extensive touring and performance experience. They have joined forces as Twin Engines to perform a collage of rock, soul, and blues. 7:30pm. Free.

The Dez Lounge Open Mic w/ Joyful Lane Join Joyful Lane as he hosts open mic night @The Dez Lounge! Enjoy NA cocktails, Charcuterie and desserts while listening to local talent! 6-9pm. Free.

The Lot Draven Schmidt Lush solo saxophone ballads, and smooth R&B style from Draven Schmidt. 6-8pm. Free.

Tumalo State Park Sunset Yoga & Sound

Journey Join Emily from Do Yoga Outside and Lauren from Resonance by Lauren for this 90-minute offering. There will be 45-minutes of restorative yoga flow, suitable for all levels of practitioners. Followed by 45 minutes of sinking into our bodies and listening to the frequencies of her beautiful instruments. 5:30-7pm. $35.

Ticket and promote your events with BendTicket! >

4 Friday

Century Commons Taps and Trucks

Heller Highwater Trio Heller Highwater Trio plays acoustic cover songs that you will love. From Adele to Rolling Stones, come enjoy great selection of beer and cider and food trucks galore. Family and pet friendly. 6-8pm. Free.

Desert Inn Sports Bar & Grill Chasin’ Bandits feat Christie Strode Chasin’ Bandits plays country, rock & southern rock tunes. Christie Strode adds her vocal talents to many of your favorite songs. The Desert Inn has a great menu w Prime Rib Fridays. Catch this talented band first Friday monthly all season long. Great vibes off the Culver Hwy! First Friday of every month, 7-10pm. Free.

Faith, Hope and Charity Vineyards

Live at the Vineyard: Motel Kalifornia Eagles Tribute Relive the classics! The Eagles formed in 1971, and their impact on rock music is undeniable—five #1 singles, six #1 albums, and a collection of Grammy & American Music Awards. Motel Kalifornia pays tribute to their unforgettable sound while also rocking hits from America, John Denver, The Doobie Brothers. 5-8pm. $35.

Hardtails Bar & Grill Stage 28 Karaoke Come out for a night of Stage 28 Karaoke with your host Miss Min! What’s your go-to karaoke tune? Come to Hardtails for a fun Friday night and sing your heart out! 8pm-Midnight. Free.

Big E’s Sports Bar Karaoke Night Central Oregon’s most fun karaoke venue! Karaoke is hosted by A Fine Note Karaoke Too and DJ Jackie J. Delicious food and drink and a friendly staff. Come join the show where you are the star! 8pm. Free.

Silver Moon Brewing The Crazy Happy Silly Funny Nerdy Show: A “Comedy Focused” Variety Show Crazy, silly, happy, funny and nerdy are more than just adjectives, they’re attributes we’re putting on stage in this “comedy focused” variety show called “The Crazy Happy Silly Funny Nerdy Show.” 7-9:30pm. $20.

Silver Moon Brewing Superball - Bell Bottom Rock Classic rockers Superball bring the party to Silver Moon Brewing’s Taproom. 7pm. $10.

Silver Moon Brewing So Much House: Fluffy Stuff & Luxo SoMuchHouse: Bend debut DJ set by Fluffy Stuff with support by Luxo. B2B set by Its Fine & MStarkDJ. Dance, community, house music. Join for this special night! First Friday of every month, 8pm-2am. $15.

Sisters Depot Tony Lompa Tony Lompa will play for a couple hours during the evening. Come on up and enjoy some great cocktails, mocktails, beer wine and a pretty awesome view of downtown Sisters. Frankie’s is located on the 2nd floor of Sisters Depot, around back next to the outdoor bar. 7-9pm. Free.

Stihl Whiskey Bar The Brandon Campbell Trio Live Gypsy Swing with The Brandon Campbell Trio at Stihl Whiskey Bar! 7-9pm. Free.

The Belfry Bon Bon Vivant Bon Bon Vivant is a genre bending band from New Orleans that pulls from singer/songwriter/ pop/ Americana/ dark ballads and up-tempo indie dance music. 7-10pm. $20.

The Commonwealth Pub Old & In The Way 50th Anniversary Show Coming together to celebrate 50 years of the bluegrass supergroup Old & In The Way’s classic eponymous release, this talented group of Central Oregon pickers is here to throw down! With two sets of Old & In The Way classics, including their self-titled 1975 record played front to back. 8pm. Free.

The Dez Lounge DJ Preet (@preet2d2) DJ Preet serves as your in-house resident DJ for First Fridays at the DEZ. Spinning diverse and eclectic sets featuring global artists & his own original compositions. Dress festive and come prepared to enjoy vibrant beverages accompanied by spicy beats and luscious soundscapes. First Friday of every month, 6-9pm. Free. Volcanic Theatre Pub CODES & SQWAD John-Robert & Rett Madison—two songwriters with deeply personal stories to tell. From John-Robert’s folk-infused Garden Snake to Rett Madison’s raw and powerful One for Jackie, these artists turn life’s hardest moments into unforgettable music. Catch their latest releases this spring—songs that feel like home, heartache, and hope. 8am. $15 presale $25 door.

Webfoot Garage at Silver Moon Brewing Junaco and Palo Saprano 2 indie-rock bands bring their original music to the Webfoot Garage at Silver Moon Brewing. 7pm. $12.

Seattle-based alt-folk songwriter Shelby Natasha creates music influenced by her upbringing living between China and the Pacific Northwest. Thu., April 3, 6-8pm at The Suttle Lodge.

Shelby Natasha Music IG

Join us for the US Bank Foodie Crawl, presented by Cascade Natural Gas and Griffin Construction in downtown Bend on Sunday, April 27th from 2-4 pm & at the After Party at McMenamins Old St. Francis School from 4-6 pm. Tickets are $75 & benefit NeighborImpact. This popular annual pub-crawl-meets-progressive-dinner is a celebration of local food and drink. Guests sample small plates and beverage pairings from a select group of chefs and restaurants in downtown Bend. All for a good cause! Tickets sell fast, so act now!

Participating Restaurants: J DUB, Drake, Roam, Blissful Spoon, El Sancho, Dump City Dumplings, Wonderland Chicken, The Commons, Zydeco and more to come.

All proceeds benefit NeighborImpact & the Food Program.

CALENDAR EVENTS

Wildwood Bar & Grill RUSTMOUTH Rustmouth and Johnny Bourbon Custom Hats will be at Wildwood . Rustmouth play old ass blues “Jumped up and Electro-fied.” Custom Hat shaping by Johnny Bourbon. 7pm. Free.

5 Saturday

Austin Mercantile Saturday Afternoon Live Music Austin Mercantile is now adding live music on Saturdays! Serving wine, beer, lite happy hour menu, gifts and home decor. Hope to see you soon! 4:30-6:30pm. Free.

The Belfry Sing Your Hearts Out Sisters! 2025 Grab a friend, bring a neighbor, sing like a rock star. Enjoy a lively, evening with the Low Bar Chorale - a live band of nationally-known musicians - leading the way. No prior musical experience required. 7pm. $12.09.

Bend Cider Co. Matt Gwinup Classically trained solo guitarist Matt Gwinup (Five Pint Mary, Toothpick Shaker) performs jazz, modern fingerstyle, classical and folk at Bend Cider Co in Tumalo. Enjoy this sublime music while sipping on delicious ciders, beer, wine, & n/a beverages. Light appetizers available, outside food welcome. Kid and dog-friendly. Free. 4-6pm. Free.

Bunk+Brew Apres-Ski Saturdays End your ski day in style at Bunk + Brew! From 7-10pm, enjoy music, sauna passes, brews and après-ski vibes. Discounts for Mt. Bachelor pass holders and employees. Food carts open all night! 7-10pm. Free.

Pangaea Guild Hall Celestial

Celebration - Aries A celebration of those born under the star sign of Aries. Join us for a night of bespoke cocktails, fine food, and more! 6-11pm. Free.

Portello Wine and Spirits Live Music: The Quons Get ready for an evening of soulful singer-songwriter/folk music with rich harmonies, guitar, harmonium, and bass. The Quons bring their heartfelt originals along with covers from artists like The Decemberists, Avett Brothers, David Bowie, and REM. What’s better than a night of music, food and drink, and great vibes? 7-9pm. Free.

River’s Place Saturday Jazz Sessions Ivie Gardner Trio plays contemporary jazz that’s deeply rooted in the post-bop and hard bop traditions, bringing in a flavor of hip-hop and groove into the mix. 6-8pm. Free.

Silver Moon Brewing That ‘90s Band That 90’s Band will play an eclectic variety of your favorite 90’s alternative and grunge hits. 8-10pm. $10.

Sisters Depot Haystack Jack Band with Richard Lodwig Music for a Cause: Fundraiser for Sisters Kiwanis Food Bank All proceeds will benefit the Sisters Kiwanis Food Bank, helping provide food to those in need. Let’s make a difference! Noon. $10.

The Commonwealth Pub JuJu Eyeball at The Commonwealth Pub “Bend’s Beatle Band” since 2015 (voted “Central Oregon’s Best Cover Band” in 2021), Juju Eyeball’s energetic shows and top-notch musicianship hit the sweet spot with the audience from the first downbeat. Now a four-piece featuring Dan Larsson on bass/vocals, Kye Kennedy and Terence Neal on guitar/vocals. 8pm. Free.

Velvet 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.

6 Sunday

The Commons Cafe & Taproom Trivia Night Sunday Funday Trivia with Sean. Gather your team, or roll solo and find a spot early in the cafe, knowledge tests begin at 6pm. Prizes for 1st and 2nd place. 6-8pm. Free.

River’s Place Trivia! Free to play and prizes to win! UKB Trivia hosts this fun meeting of the minds. Check out our mimosa menu! Noon2pm. Free.

River’s Place Sidney Joseph Sidney Joseph plays rock and soul and folk infused with the blues at River’s Place. 5-7pm. Free.

Silver Moon Brewing Open Mic at the Moon Get a taste of the big time! Sign-up is at 4pm! Come check out the biggest and baddest open mic night in Bend! 5-8pm. Free.

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

7 Monday

Bridge 99 Brewery Trivia Mondays at Bridge 99 Trivia Mondays at 6:30pm at Bridge 99 Brewery with Useless Knowledge Bowl. It’s no ordinary trivia night, Team up to win house gift cards! Great brews, cocktails, and more. In-house menu and food truck options available! It’s free to play. Indoor and outdoor seating available. 63063 Layton Ave, Bend. 6:30-8:30pm. Free.

Bunk+Brew Open Mic Mondays Show off your talent at Bunk + Brew! Open mic runs from 6-10pm, with sign-ups starting at 5:30. Stick around for open jam from 9-10pm. Enjoy food carts in our backyard while supporting local performers. Located in the Historic Lucas House Living Room for winter. 6-10pm. Free.

Crux Fermentation Project Trivia Night @ Crux Trivia Night at Crux! First place team wins a $25 gift card! 6-8pm. Free.

Elixir Wine Locals Music Night and Open Mic Bend’s friendliest open-mic! All genres welcome. Oregon and international wine, beer and tapas menu available all evening. 6-9pm. Free.

Immersion Brewing Open Mic at Immersion Brewing - Bend Comedy - Open Mic at 7pm - Sign up at 6:30pm - All performance types are welcome! - All ages are welcome to attend and perform! - All acts are eligible to audition to perform in a future Bend Comedy show! - 5 minutes spoken or 2 songs of stage time! 7-9pm. Free.

JC’s Bar & Grill Free Pool + all day Happy Hour! Free pool Mondays! All-day Happy Hour, free pool with any purchase, and unbeatable deals on drinks and bites! Enjoy delicious eats, ice-cold brews, and game day vibes with football on and the sound up. Don’t miss out- Mondays just got way better! 2pm-Midnight. Free.

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

Silver Moon Brewing Beertown Comedy Open Mic Voted #1 Open Mic and Locals Night, Beertown Comedy’s Open Mic happens every Monday at Silver Moon Brewing. Free to watch and perform! Sign-ups at 6:30pm, show at 7pm. With 20 spots available, bring your best jokes and get noticed for paid gigs. Laughter guaranteed! 6:30-9pm. Free.

The Barrel Room at Immersion Brewing Public Rock Choir Come sing your face off in a fun, no-stress group where all skill levels can get loud with a live band and group singing. Rock and pop songs only. If you love to sing, but don’t want to sing alone, we are your people! No experience or skill required. First Monday of every month, 6-8am. $20.

The Commonwealth Pub Monday Acoustic Open Mic Night Monday Acoustic Open Mic Night at The Commonwealth Pub Whether you’re performing original songs or acoustic covers, the stage is yours Monday nights at The Commonwealth Pub! With full sound and lights provided, just bring your instrument and get ready to shine! Sign-ups 5pm and music 6-10pm. 5pm. Free.

8 Tuesday

Bunk+Brew Trivia Tuesdays Test your knowl edge every Tuesday from 7-9pm at Bunk + Brew! New exciting themes every week. Bring your friends for a night of fun and prizes. Food carts will be open, so grab a bite or brew while you play. Located in the Historic Lucas House Dining Room. 7-9pm. Free.

The Cellar Open Mic Open mic at The Cellar hosted by Mari! 6-8pm and all are welcome! 6-8pm. Free.

American singer/songwriter Deb Talan is known for her work in the indie duo The Weepies as well as her solo material of folk-pop gems. Tue., April 8, 7pm at The Belfry.

Deb Talan FB

APRIL IS CHILD ABUSE PREVENTION MONTH

...at MountainStar, it’s what we do every day, all year long. We get involved with families facing tough challenges at a time when it matters most – the first 1,000 days of their child’s life. Children attend therapeutic early childhood classes designed for babies and toddlers who often live in high-stress homes, and we know that stress can make it harder for caretakers to respond to their children’s needs. MountainStar’s staff and volunteers create a safe and predictable environment to respond to the unique needs of each child in our program.

11,191

Central Oregon children were victims of abuse and neglect in 2023.

Wednesdays – Smoked Beef Brisket

Classic slow-cooked brisket, perfectly smoked to melt in your mouth. Join us for an unforgettable meal for just $35, every Wednesday 5-8:30pm.

MountainStar Bend: (541) 322-6820

Thursdays – Bingo & Sliders

MountainStar Redmond: (541) 527-1025

Play Bingo from 4-5pm and stay for our sliders special! Two for $14 — Choose from BBQ pulled pork, Philly shaved prime rib, bacon smash, shredded buffalo chicken or seared salmon.

MountainStar La Pine: (541) 213-6502

MountainStar Madras: (541) 475-2537

MountainStar Prineville: (541) 416-0146

Start your weekend with music and a sunset. Featuring a different local artist every Friday from 5:15–7pm.

To learn more about our special events or make a dining reservation, call 541-593-4855 or visit CalderaSprings.com/LakeHouse see what's new at

At MountainStar, we are reflecting on the unwavering strength and resilience of the community we serve. In recent times, various policy changes have influenced areas such as early childhood education funding and nonprofit grant structures. While these developments present both challenges and opportunities, MountainStar remains steadfast in our mission to prevent child abuse and neglect through comprehensive family support and therapeutic services.

We recognize that robust communities are built on local engagement and support. Our immediate networks—neighbors, local businesses, and community partners—are the backbone of our work. And a shout out to volunteers who lift us up daily! Your combined efforts raise both community awareness and critical funds across the region. By investing in each other, we create a resilient community.

At MountainStar, we know that investing in our local community is essential. Supporting families leads to a ripple effect of positive change, enhancing the well-being of all. And at the heart of this work is you—our dedicated donors. It is your generosity, commitment, and belief in our mission that makes this work possible. Your efforts ensure that children are safe, families receive the support they need, and our programs continue to thrive.

Because of you, families facing overwhelming stress find relief. Because of you, children receive the strong start they need. Because of you, MountainStar continues to be a beacon

of hope for so many. Your support is not just a donation—it is an investment in the future of our community, creating lasting change for generations to come.

As we move forward together, let us reaffirm our commitment to each other and to the future we are building. By strengthening our local bonds and investing in our community, we ensure a brighter future for all.

With heartfelt gratitude,

KARA TACHIKAWA Executive Director MountainStar Family Relief Nursery

BY THE NUMBERS:

YOUR IMPACT IN ACTION

300+

Children and families served annually across all five MountainStar locations

1000+

Home visits offering direct support to families in crisis

3100+

Hours of therapeutic early childhood classes provided last year

5400+

Volunteer hours contributed by our dedicated community

400+

Boxes of diapers distributed to families with infants and toddlers

You ensure these numbers continue to grow, thank you!

The Power of Local Investment: HOW OUR COMMUNITY CREATES LASTING CHANGE

At MountainStar, we see firsthand how community support transforms lives— providing stability for families, hope for parents, and a strong foundation for children to thrive. Your investment in our mission and the resilience it fosters across Central Oregon is priceless.

Check out our Ways to Give at mtstar.org/ways-to-give to ensure you are taking full advantage of viable opportunities to join us in keeping kids safe, healthy, and strong.

A FAMILY STORY: BREAKING THE CYCLE

For years, Jake struggled with unstable housing, limited access to care, and the overwhelming responsibility of raising his twoyear-old son alone. Without a support system, he felt trapped in survival mode, unsure of how to create a better future.

When he found MountainStar, everything changed.

Through parenting classes and mental health resources, Jake gained the tools and confidence to build a stable life for his son. He completed a job training program, secured safe housing, and today, his child is thriving in a nurtured, loving environment.

“MountainStar didn’t just help my son—they helped me become the father I always wanted to be.”

– Jake, MountainStar Parent

Jake’s story is a testament to the power of investing in families. Your support isn’t just changing lives today—it’s breaking cycles for generations to come.

JOIN US IN BUILDING A STRONGER COMMUNITY

You can be part of this ongoing impact by:

Becoming a monthly donor to provide consistent, long-term support.

Making a gift from your Donor Advised Fund or IRA.

Creating a Legacy Gift for long-term stability.

Volunteering your time at one of our centers.

Attending our upcoming Birdies 4 Babies fundraiser.

Advocating for MountainStar’s mission.

Your support today is a step toward a stronger, more resilient tomorrow. Together, we can ensure every child has the opportunity to grow up safe, supported, and ready to thrive.

Partner Spotlight: LOCAL BUSINESSES MAKING A DIFFERENCE

Community partnerships strengthen the foundation of our work. This year, we celebrate the generous support of local businesses like First Interstate Bank, whose commitment to MountainStar ensures families receive essential supplies, and Plateau Forest Products, whose annual partnership helps sustain our Relief Nursery services.

Investing in MountainStar is an investment in the future of the entire community. By working together, we create a safety net that uplifts children, supports families, and strengthens our region for generations to come. Check out our Partners for Kids (P4K) program at mtstar.org/p4K to participate with these great community partners.

APRIL IS CHILD ABUSE PREVENTION MONTH

...at MountainStar, it’s what we do every day, all year long. We get involved with families facing tough challenges at a time when it matters most – the first 1,000 days of their child’s life. Children attend therapeutic early childhood classes designed for babies and toddlers who often live in high-stress homes, and we know that stress can make it harder for caretakers to respond to their children’s needs. MountainStar’s staff and volunteers create a safe and predictable environment to respond to the unique needs of each child in our program.

11,191

Central Oregon children were victims of abuse and neglect in 2023.

MountainStar Bend: (541) 322-6820

MountainStar Redmond: (541) 527-1025

MountainStar La Pine: (541) 213-6502

MountainStar Madras: (541) 475-2537

MountainStar Prineville: (541) 416-0146

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

Mountain Burger Trivia Tuesday at Mountain Burger Come to Trivia Tuesday at Mountain Burger! Fun and prizes await! 7:30-9pm. Free.

Northside Bar & Grill Karaoke with DJ Chris Ossig Karaoke with DJ Chris. 7-9pm. Free.

Pinky G’s Pizzeria TRIVIA NIGHT Test your knowledge in a casual/laid-back atmosphere. Pizza, beer and trivia. Free to play and prizes for 1st and 2nd place. 6-8pm. Free.

Silver Moon Brewing Lioneer, Zorb & MCCOY & Kathartica Lioneer, Zorb and MCCOY and Kathartica perform at Silver Moon Brewing. 6pm. $10.

The Belfry An Evening with Deb Talan Deb TalanDeb Talan has been writing songs since she was 14 years old. Granted, her style has changed a bit since writing the forever-unknown smash-hit “Through the Window” about feeling numb, like life was going on somewhere out there but not accessible to her. 7-9pm. $20.

The Capitol The Capitol Karaoke Music Weekly Karaoke at its finest! Central Oregon’s Premiere karaoke experience has just moved locations! Now at the Capitol! Come get immersed with a stage and sound system Plenty of space! Drink specials! Air Guitars! Come see for yourself! It’s a habit! 8pm-1am. Free.

The Commonwealth Pub Karaoke Get ready for a night of music, singing, and nonstop fun at The Commonwealth Pub! DJ Chris is bringing the energy with top 40 hits and all your favorite karaoke tracks. Grab your friends, warm up those vocal cords, and join us for an unforgettable evening. Sign-ups 6pm Karaoke 7pm! Free.

The Lot Think Wild Trivia at The Lot! Think Wild Trivia Nights are back this fall! Test your knowledge of local wildlife, outdoor recreation, conservation news, and more! Support Central Oregon’s wildlife hospital, win fun prizes, and enjoy delicious food and beverages at The Lot! Second Tuesday of every month, 6-8pm. Free.

MUSIC

REVERIE: A Collaboration of Pathways Dance Company & Ping & Woof Opera Featuring Ping & Woof Opera Soprano Jocelyn Claire Thomas, cellist Hannah Hillebrand and pianist Susan McDaniel, REVERIE blends the beauty of classical music and dynamic dance. Featuring works by Chopin, Schubert, Debussy, and Tchaikovsky. April 5, 7-9pm and April 6, 3-5pm. Wille Hall, Coats Campus Center, COCC Bend Campus, Bend, Bend. Contact: 503-351-2465. jocelyn@operabend.org. $25.

Seals & Crofts 2 For Brady Seals, cousin to Jim, and Lua Crofts, daughter of Dash, musical magic is all in the family. With a reverent nod to the past and harmonies as sweet as a breath of springtime air, they artfully re-imagine the iconic classics of the1970’s soft rock duo Seals & Crofts. April 6, 7:30pm. Tower Theatre, 835 NW Wall St., Bend. Contact: 541-317-0700. $44 - $64 (plus $6 Historic Preservation fee).

DANCE

Dancing Through the Decades: Boys & Girls Clubs of Bend Throwback Prom Dancing Through the Decades: Throwback Prom is Central Oregon’s most nostalgic and entertaining fundraiser, bringing the community together for a night of music, dancing, and fun--all in support of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Bend. April 5, 7-10pm. Boys & Girls Clubs of Bend, 500 NE Wall Street, Bend. Contact: 541617-2877. Alice@bgcbend.org. $60.

FEATURED

REVERIE: A Celebration of Live Music & Dance Join us at Wille Hall on April 5 (7pm) & 6 (3pm) as OperaBend brings a unique event that combines the magic of live music and dance. In collaboration with Ping & Woof Opera and Pathways Dance Company. April 5, 7-9pm and April 6, 3-5pm. COCC Campus Center - Wille Hall, 2600 College Way, Bend. Contact: 503-351-2465. jocelyn@operabend.org. $25.

FILM EVENTS

399: Queen of the Tetons Film Screening Join us for a Bend Film Festival encore event! Film will be followed by an extended conversation with Director Elizabeth Leiter. Doors @ 5:30pm | Show @ 6:30pm. April 5, 5:30-8:30pm. Tower Theatre, 835 NW Wall St., Bend. Contact: 541-388-3378. $18.

Sprout Film Festival The Sprout Film Festival’s mission is to inspire audiences, promote inclusion and support transformative filmmaking as an important part of social change. This unique event focuses exclusively on films that celebrate the diverse lives and creativity of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/ DD). April 8, 10am and 7pm. Tower Theatre, 835 NW Wall St., Bend. Contact: 541-317-0700. info@ towertheatre.org. $6 (plus fees).

ARTS + CRAFTS

Paint and Sip at Stoller Wine Bar Looking for a laid-back night out? Come join me, your friendly local artist, for some painting and sipping fun! No pressure, just good vibes and a relaxed atmosphere. This event is two hours, and I’ll provide the 11”x14” canvas, all the supplies you need, and a guided tutorial. April 8, 6-8pm. Stoller Wine Bar Bend, 555 NW Arizona Ave, Suite 30, Bend. Contact: chalkedcreative@gmail.com. $52.

Traditional Soap Making There’s nothing like handmade soap. In this workshop, you’ll make eight bars, ones gentle enough for your face, to strong enough for your hands, to fierce enough for your dishes (if yours are anything like mine, you need fierce!). Better, you’ll make bars that seem to last forever. April 5, 9am-Noon.Redmond. Contact: 650-224-6750. info@schoolofranch.org. $130.

PRESENTATIONS + EXHIBITS

Dr. Esther Pohl Lovejoy: Oregon’s Doctor to the World From working-class background to barrier breaking physician, Esther Pohl Lovejoy left her mark. Presented by Dr. Kimberly Jensen, author and educator. April 6, 11am-Noon. Downtown Bend Public Library, 601 NW Wall St., Bend. Contact: 541-312-1032. lizg@ deschuteslibrary.org. Free.

International Beaver Day Movie and Celebration To celebrate International Beaver Day, Think Wild is hosting a showing of The Biggest Dam Movie You Ever Saw, a 1987 IMAX documentary about a beaver family in the Canadian Rockies. The film provides a heartfelt perspective following the beavers. April 7, 5:307:30pm. Deschutes Brewery & Public House, 1044 NW Bond St., Bend. Contact: maureen@ thinkwildco.org. $5.

THEATRE

Next To Normal: Musical Pulitzer winner and 3-time Tony winner, Next To Normal, the rock musical will tear at your heart strings as it hits the gritty and prestigious Greenhouse stage this spring. Next to Normal is an intimate exploration of family and illness, loss and grief. Fri, April 4, 7:30-10pm, Sat, April 5, 7:30-10pm, Sun, April 6, 7:30-10pm. The Greenhouse Cabaret, 1017 NE 2nd St., Bend. Contact: 541-699-2840. info@ thegreenhousecabaret.com. $20-$75.

WORDS

Author! Author! presents Ellen Waterston Ellen Waterston was named Oregon Poet Laureate in August 2024 for a two-year term. Waterston has published four collections of poetry and three nonfiction titles. She is the recipient of the Stewart H. Holbrook Award and winner of the Obsidian Prize in Poetry. April 3, 7-8:30pm. Caldera High School, 60925 SE 15th St, Bend. Contact: 541-312-1027. admin@ dplfoundation.org. $35.

Mystery Book Talk Bookstore owner and avid reader, Deon Stonehouse, will go over the wide variety in the mystery genre including cozy, thriller, historical, literary; stand alone versus series; and give great reading recommendations along the way. Registration required. April 8, 4:30-5:30pm. Sunriver Books & Music, Sunriver Village Building 25C, Sunriver. Contact: 541-312-1029. laurelh@deschuteslibrary.org. Free.

ETC.

National Geographic Live: The Untold Story Of Sharks Embark with Dr. Jess Cramp on a journey through the National Geographic archives to discover the work of pioneering women in shark science, before diving into Cramp’s present-day work at the frontier of shark research and conservation. April 4, 7:30pm. Tower Theatre, 835 NW Wall St., Bend. Contact: 541-317-0700. info@towertheatre.org. $44-$74 (plus $6 Historic Preservation fee).

Spring Sparkles Drag Brunch Join us at Deschutes Brewery Bend Public House for a Drag Brunch featuring fabulous performances! Whether you’ve been shredding the slopes or simply looking to have a fabulous Sunday, our Drag Brunch is the best way to end the weekend. Indulge in delicious hand-crafted brunch specials and festive sparkly cocktails. April 6, 11am-2pm. Deschutes Brewery & Public House, 1044 NW Bond St., Bend. Contact: 541-382-9242. anaden@deschutesbrewery.com. $30.

OUTDOORS

EVENTS

Horse Butte 10-Mile Trail Run Great views of the high desert and mountains can be had, especially on the way back in from the aid station. If you have never done this event put it on your to do list! **We do have a rule that to get a course record you must be dressed April 6, 9amNoon. Horse Butte, Billadeau Rd, Bend. Contact: 541-317-3568. info@footzonebend.com. $65.

British folk-rock band Mumford & Sons heads to Bend on tour with special guest Divorce. The band consists of Marcus Mumford, Ted Dwane and Ben Lovett. Thu., June 5, 6:30pm at Hayden Homes Amphitheater.

Mumford and Sons FB

HANDS OFF OUR DEMOCRACY

Movie Night & Bike Prep with AdventurUs Women, She Jumps, & Between Evergreens Join a fun night that promises to get you stoked for bike season. First up, “Dirt Pride,” a short film celebrating the “transformative power of building queer community outside” through bikepacking by local Bend filmmaker Christina Rosetti. Next, Eddie from Between Evergreens will lead a bike-prep workshop April 2, 6-8pm. Embark, 2843 NW Lolo Drive, Bend. Contact: 541-600-4393. info@theadventurus.com. Free.

GROUPS + MEETUPS

Biz & Bevs @ Willamette Valley Vineyards Tasting Room Join the Bend business community for our “Biz & Bevs” event at Willamette Valley Vineyards Tasting Room! This will be a time for people to gather, network, and hear from our rotating venue hosts and nonprofit features. We will have beverages and small bites. April 8, 4:30-6pm. Willamette Valley Vineyards, 916 NW Wall St., Bend. Free to Chamber Members | $10 for Non-Members. Hands Off! Redmond Fights Back Join your neighbors in Redmond to raise your voices in opposition to the Trump administration’s attacks on the services we fund through our taxes! Raise your voice and a picket sign as we participate in this nationwide day of protest. April 5, 2-4pm, SW 6th and SW Highland Ave (Hwy 126), Redmond. Contact: 503-956-5775. jenlaverdure245@gmail.com. Free.

FUNDRAISING

Do Yoga Outside 2025 LAUNCH PARTY! Join Emily in building HYPE for the 2025 Do Yoga Outside Season. Learn about all of this year's offerings, get exclusive discounts, enter raffles and giveaways from local vendors. All proceeds will go to the Do Yoga Outside Scholarship Fund to support finances not being a barrier to outdoor yoga April 5, 6-8pm. Alpenglow Park,

61049 Southeast 15th Street, Bend. Contact: 541668-6132. doyogaoutside@gmail.com. $5.

First Friday Artwalk Fundraiser for CASA In honor of Child Abuse Prevention Month, CASA of Central Oregon will host a fun and family-friendly fundraiser at BrownBag Popcorn. Enjoy some wine and buy raffle tickets for a chance to win gift cards and baskets. Plus, 30% of sales from the PB&J flavored popcorn go to CASA! April 4, 5-8pm. Brown Bag Popcorn, 920 NW Bond St., Bend. Contact: 541-389-1618. lfelt@casaofcentraloregon.org. Free.

EVENTS + MARKETS

Spring Makers Market Join Immersion Brewing’s Spring Makers Market on April 5, 2025! Enjoy live music, delicious food, local vendors, raffles, flash tattoos, and more—all while supporting the Environmental Center. Don’t miss this vibrant community event celebrating creativity and sustainability! April 5, 3-7pm. Immersion Brewing, 550 SW Industrial Way, Bend. Contact: alyssa@imbrewing.com. Free.

FAMILY + KIDS

Crafting Wildflower Seed Hearts for Planting & Sound Bath Embrace the energy of renewal and growth! In this mindful workshop, you’ll craft your own wildflower seed hearts to dry then plant—symbolic, earth-friendly creations representing new beginnings, transformation, and the flourishing of life. As you mix, you’ll be planting the seeds of intention! April 5, 6-7:30pm. The Peoples Apothecary, 1841 NE Division Street, Bend. Contact: 541-728-2368. classes@thepeoplesapothecary.net. $65.

River Bend Kids Consignment Event

Shop over 30,000 gently used items at the River Bend Kids Spring Sale! Clothes, maternity, toys, books, gear & more! Thu, April 3, Noon-7pm, Fri, April 4, 10am-7pm, Sat, April 5, 10am-7pm and Sun, April 6, 10am-7pm. Seventh Mountain Resort, 18575 SW Century Dr., Bend. Contact: 541-390-6920. riverbendresaleboutique@gmail. com. Free.

Run for the Nations 5k The Run for the Nations 5k is a family-friendly run/walk with professional timing & a separate 1-mile race for kids. Hosted by Westside Church & Bold Ventures in collaboration with Pro Runner Mario Mendoza, this international-themed race benefits global outreach partners around the world. April 5, 7-10am. Old Mill District, 450 SW Powerhouse Dr. Suite 422, Bend. Contact: 541-3827504. bearwicker@westsidechurch.org. $25.

Screenagers: Elementary Edition Film Screening + Expert Panel Event!

Well Wired, a healthy tech advocacy group & family community in Central Oregon, and the Waldorf School of Bend will co-host a screening of the film "Screenagers." We invite all parents, educators, caregivers, and kids ages 9 and up to come watch, listen, learn, and ask questions. April 4, 5:30-7pm. Waldorf School of Bend, 2150 NE Studio Rd. Suite 2, Bend. Contact: 541-3308841. info@bendwaldorf.com. Free.

BEER + DRINK

First Friday Wine Tasting with Jessica from Grape Expectations Join us for our monthly First Friday Wine Tasting with Jessica from Grape Expectations. -When: April 4. -Time: 5-8pm -Cost: $15 (Free to our wonderful wine club members). April 4, 5-8pm. The Good Drop Wine Shoppe, 141 NW Minnesota Ave, Bend. Contact: 541-410-1470. $15.

Love where you work

At Market of Choice, you can find what you love and grow your career, while receiving competitive pay, discounts, health insurance, and 401K.

LOGE Camps - Live Music

Happy Hour Join us for an epic evening of live music, $5 draft by Deschutes Brewery, plus snowboard demo and free gear wax from our partners at Genetemstick, Tactics, and Spiral Wax. Come enjoy plates by Parrilla Grill, $15 donation per plate. All proceeds going to local cancer survivor. April 4, 4-8pm. LOGE Bend, 19221 SW Century Dr, Bend. Contact: 541-3063111. hitusup@logecamps.com. Free.

HEATLH + WELLNESS

$5 Yoga Classes! Just $5 per class on Sunday April 6! Proceeds go toward our Scholarship Foundation helping with financial aid to students who need a little help getting in for a yoga practice. 15 different styles of classes to choose from. Please pre-register and arrive early! April 6. Bend Yoga Center, 1230 NE 3rd Street, Suite A230, Bend. Contact: yoga@bendhotyoga.com. $5.

FLOW/FLOW

This immersive wellness experience is designed to reconnect you with nature and restore your sense of flow. FLOW/ FLOW blends intentional yoga, guided meditation, and hot/cold/rest thermic cycles - all designed to help you reset your nervous system and recharge for the week ahead. Limited spots available. Sun, April 6, 2:45-4:45pm and Sun, April 27, 2:45-4:45pm. Riverbend Park, 799 SW Columbia St., Bend. Contact: 541647-7941. wildlandguidingcompany@gmail. com. $48.

By

Sunriver Brewing Company Expands to Redmond with New Pub

The award-winning brewery plans to open this summer with craft beers and artisan food

Big news for Redmond beer lovers: Sunriver Brewing Company is bringing its award-winning brews and beloved pub fare to town with a brand-new location opening this summer.

“We are thrilled to introduce the Redmond community to Sunriver Brewing Company,” said Travis Downing, Sunriver Brewing’s restaurants director, in a press release. “Our team has worked tirelessly to create a space where guests can not only enjoy great food and awesome craft beer, but also create lasting memories. This opening marks the beginning of an exciting journey, and we can’t wait to serve you all soon!”

Located in the multi-use Westmount building, the new pub will feature a spacious beer hall layout with a variety of seating options in a bright, open space. Floor-to-ceiling windows will bring in natural light while the large outdoor beer garden patio will offer a welcoming space to gather. Guests can also unwind with a drink on the rooftop, complete with mountain views.

The pub will offer 16 taps with SBC’s renowned craft beers, craft hard seltzers and nonalcoholic options, all supported by a full-service bar. The menu will feature pub favorites, housemade artisan pizzas and high-quality plated dishes crafted with local and regional ingredients.

Crux Sells Bend Property, Remains as Tenants

The Bend brewery sold its brewpub property and will now lease its space from the new owners

By Julianna LaFollette

Crux Fermentation Project found a buyer for its Bend property after listing it for sale about a year ago. The sale of the property included a guaranteed leaseback to Crux to operate for the foreseeable future.

The property, purchased by Pacific Foods of Oregon cofounder Jonathan Gehrs and daughter Molly Hummel, includes 1.57 acres of land, including the 8,816-square-foot taproom and restaurant. The sale was for the property alone, not including the Crux company.

The sale will help Crux free up funds to continue investing in its popular nonalcoholic beer and reinvest in the company in other ways, including improvements at its production facility in northeast Bend and in their employees, a spokesperson said.

“We have no plans to close the pub at all here in Bend. We have a five-year lease right now, and the dream is to continue that. This actually just allowed us a little bit more freedom to be able to reinvest in the business,” said Ashley Picerno, marketing and branding manager at Crux Fermentation Project.

Crux, which first opened its Bend tasting room in 2012, originally listed the property with the intention of leasing it back from the new owners. The taproom was initially listed for $5.5 million. According to property records, Gehrs and Hummel

purchased the property for $4,400,000.

In April, Crux said the sale will reinforce its current growth, allowing the brewery to continue investing in new products including its expanding portfolio of nonalcoholic and unique craft beers.

“One thing that we’re really stoked on is the 401(k) program that we were able to launch out of all of this for our employees. They’ve been very thrilled about that, for us to be able to help them invest in their own futures as well,” Picerno told the Source.

According to The New School, a beer and cider blog, Crux’s original copper brewhouse was relocated to its off-site production facility last week to allow for two new retail tenants to lease out space inside the taproom. This means Crux could be sharing its location with other businesses in the near future.

“We’re actually really excited to maybe have a new business or two next door that might bring some more to our little campus and help give some of our customers more things to kind of check out and explore when they come visit us as well,” Picerno said.

In addition to Crux’s changes at its Bend location, the company’s Portland location, which opened in June 2023, is set to close. The Portland location, which offered a full-service restaurant and taproom, was scheduled to close on March 30.

Ken Cameron

Savannah Mendoza

Savannah Mendoza

More than just a place to buy fresh fruits and vegetables, local farmers markets are vibrant community gatherings where local farmers, artisans and marketgoers come together to celebrate the bounty of the season. The Central Oregon market season kicks off in late April and runs through October and includes several markets in Bend as well as others in Redmond, Sisters, Sunriver and Madras.

Unlike grocery store produce that may have traveled hundreds of miles, farmers market offerings are often harvested just hours before they reach your hands. This means fresher, more flavorful food for you and your family. Willa Bauman, who manages the Sisters Farmers Market, adds, “Farmers markets have been shown to provide a lot of support to the local economy: One of my favorite stats from Farmers Market Coalition is that for every dollar spent at a farmers market, two dollars is generated for the local economy.” By purchasing directly from farmers and makers, you help sustain local agriculture and small businesses.

Farmers markets provide access to foods that are in season, which not only taste better but also have a lower environmental impact. Many vendors use organic and sustainable farming practices, ensuring that what you eat is good for both humans and the planet overall.

“In a world where many people don’t know where their food comes from, farmers markets provide a way for people to reconnect to their food system and to rethink the way they shop and eat,” explains Ann Pistacchi-Peck, market manager for the downtown Bend Farmers Market.

As a nonprofit dedicated to making sure fresh, locally produced food is available to everyone, the downtown market considers itself a community-centered, outdoor grocery store where people can connect to their local food producers for their weekly shopping. Worth noting is the wide range of food access programs available. SNAP shoppers taking part in the benefit programs can walk away with $92 to shop at the market after taking out just $26 on their SNAP cards.

Another wonderful thing about attending and shopping at any of the local farmers markets is the chance to meet the people who grow your food, learn about their practices and even get cooking tips. Many of the markets also feature handcrafted foodstuffs such as pickled vegetables, local honey and baked goods along with live music, food vendors and local artisans.

Along with a wide variety of farmers and food producers, makers and artists, the family-operated Redmond Farmers Market has a strong focus on being a family-friendly market. For the 2025 season, it's adding a market story time for little kids.

“Our goal is to make sure children are included in the market experience and that it’s a space where the

Fresh Foods and Local Vibes

Central Oregon’s farmers markets are vibrant community hubs

By Donna Britt

community can gather every Friday evening with the whole family,” explains Emma Meyers with Harvest House Events. Emma runs the market with her sisters, Meg Meyers and Lily Lapp.

A new market on the scene this upcoming season is the Worthy Farmers Market running on Sundays beginning April 27 at Worthy Brewing Biergarten on Bend’s east side. With 30 food and craft vendors, a coffee bar hosted by Bohemian Roastery and beer and cocktail offerings along with live music, market manager Jeff Akers (also owner of Bohemian Roastery) says, “People that know and care about their neighbors through community

events (such as farmers markets) tend to be much kinder and do not act out with as much malice or disregard.” Akers has nicknamed his hometown “The Isle of Bend” because, as he puts it, “We really support local!”

Food has a unique ability to bring people together as we all need nourishment. Food-centric events such as farmers markets bring together people from all walks of life, creating spaces where the focus can be on flavors and fun. With the abundance of markets throughout Central Oregon, we can all look forward to another abundant season with plenty of opportunities to connect and support each other.

Central Oregon Farmers Markets

Bend Farmers Market: Wed., 11am-3pm, May-Oct. bendfarmersmarket.com

Redmond Farmers Market: Fri., 3-7pm, May-Aug. redmondoregonfarmersmarket.org

NorthWest Crossing Saturday Farmers Market: Sat., 10am-2pm, June-Sept. nwxfarmersmarket.com

Sunriver Saturday Market: Last Sat., 9am-1pm, May-Sept. instagram.com/sunriversaturdaymarket

Madras Saturday Market: Sat., 9am-2pm, May-Sept. madrassaturdaymarket.com

Sisters Farmers Market: Sun., 10am-2pm, June-Oct. sistersfarmersmarket.com

Worthy Farmers Market: Sun., 10am, April 27-Sept. instagram.com/worthybrewing

Bend Moonlight Market: Sat., May 17, 4-11pm instagram.com/bendmoonlightmarket

Redmond Farmers Market

Bend Farmers Market

The downtown Bend Farmers Market considers itself a community-centered outdoor grocery store.

The Redmond Farmers Market puts a focus on the whole family.

LITTLE BITES

By Chris Young

‘No Burger Left Behind’ Burger Week is April 3 to 9 so the Source caught up with Bend’s burger expert, Josh Cordell

There was excited, salivating chatter around the Source’s office in preparation for Burger Week. With imaginations running wild for smashed or thick patties, bite-sized sliders topped with oozing cheese or beef balls infused with onions and bacon, this Thursday, April 3 to next Wednesday, April 9 will see 25 Central Oregon eateries serving up 29 specialty burgers at $10 a pop — that’s 25 meaty options and four meatless ones from Bend to Redmond over to Sisters and back down to Tumalo. There’s even one in Madras.

The water cooler talk inevitably settled on how Bend local Josh Cordell would be spending his week. Known for his Burger Friday posts on Instagram, we casually christened him “Bend’s burger expert” because he hasn’t missed a Burger Friday since he started this deliciously self-imposed challenge 135 weeks ago. That makes Burger Week number 136 — that’s more than two and a half years of burgery goodness.

We gave Cordell a call to find out how he’ll be spending his Burger Week — answers have been edited for brevity and clarity.

Source Weekly: How have you not run out of places to go? Are there ever repeat visits?

Josh Cordell: We try not to go to the same place very often, but we’ll do that once in a while. Sometimes it’s just me, and then occasionally I’ll do it with a friend, but usually it’s me and my wife and our youngest daughter, who’s 11. We try to get out of town a lot of weekends and so we try to hit up different places around Oregon. We try to go everywhere in Central Oregon. There’s still a few in Central Oregon that we haven’t had. And then we’ll have repeats of ones that we really like.

SW: What burger joints are on your repeat list?

JC: Well, I have a burger named after me at Mountain Burger. I’ll often go there with friends, or when people are in town, they’ll want to go there and do that. So I go to Mountain Burger fairly often. Americana is one of our favorites.

SW: I see The Cordell Burger on Mountain Burger’s menu with swiss cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, bacon and pesto aioli.

JC: Yeah, that was one that I got to design. I got to pick the ingredients.

SW: During past Burger Weeks, have you tried all the burgers available?

JC: This will be my third Burger Week. What I’ve done both times is I’ve held off and not had any burgers until Friday. Part of doing this is that I’ll occasionally cheat when someone really wants to go have a burger, but I really try to avoid having burgers anytime but Friday. The last two Burger Weeks, I tried to have as many burgers as possible on that Friday. I was halving the burgers last year. I think I had like six and a half burgers last year. But the first year was the crazier one. There was one burger spot that was closed when I tried to go there. But other than that, I hit every burger spot that was on the list that day. I didn’t finish all of them. I had leftovers. I kept a cooler with me, and so I had some leftover burgers, but all of it got eaten — just it took me over the weekend to finish the rest of them.

“I feel like I’ve been training my whole life for Burger Week. I think I’m ready.”

— Josh Cordell

SW: I love that you paced yourself but also made sure nothing was wasted.

JC: No burger left behind is kind of the way I try to live. I haven’t seen the list yet for this year, but I have really big plans. I [will] fast the day before, so I’m gonna not eat anything on Thursday, and then I’m gonna make a list of where the burgers are. I’m still trying to figure out my transportation. I’m trying to see what the weather is like to figure out if I’m either walking or if I’m gonna ride a bike with a cooler on it. I’m gonna just make a full day of eating burgers.

SW: Your transportation plan will help you burn some calories and maybe clear up some space for eating more burgers.

JC: Exactly.

SW: With 25 locations and 29 burgers on the list, what’s your goal?

JC: I’m thinking 10 burgers is probably my goal. No fries, though. I’m gonna have to go zero fries.

SW: So 10 burgers would potentially be 20 places?

JC: Yeah, I could split them, eat half. I’ll definitely hit a spot with my daughter, and then I’ll figure out if I’m meeting other people [and sharing]. I was halving the burgers last year, but there was like three of them where I was like, “This was too good.” And I just ate the whole thing.

SW: I saw you’ve coached high school sports for years. But it sounds like you might need a burger coach this week.

JC: I am gonna need someone for sure. I know I’ll be feeling it. But what a great thing to be in training for. I feel like I’ve been training my whole life for Burger Week. I think I’m ready.

Are you ready for Burger Week from April 3-9? Get all the details at bendsource.com/burgerweek

Burger aficionado Josh Cordell and his 11-year-old daughter Brynlee on a recent Burger Friday.

Josh Cordell

April 3rd-9th

7 Days / $10 Burgers

Want to win stuff for eating burgers? Enter our giveaway!

Source Weekly is proud to present our 3rd Annual Burger Week!

Put on your stretchy pants and ready your palate for a week of decadence from some of the finest eateries around. Starting this Thursday April 3rd, visit participating businesses to try their specially created Burger Week entry, for a special price of only $10 until Wednesday April 9th. This year’s lineup includes some returning favorites as well as some newcomers looking to get their names out there. We so excited to embark on this culinary tour de force with you! You do not want to miss this!

1. Americana

2. Bend Brewing Co.

3. Bend Burger Co.

4. Blue Eyes Burgers & Fries

5. Bluma's Chicken & Waffles

6. Boneyard Pub

7. Cascade Alchemy Bowls

8. Crux Fermantation Project

9. Currents at Riverhouse

10. Dogs & Fries

11. Fire on the Mountain

12. Immersion Brewing

13. Initiative Brewing (Redmond)

14. Initiative Brewing (Madras)

15. Jackson's Corner

16. Luckey's Woodsman

17. Mountain Burger

18. Prost!

19. Redmond Burger Co.

20. Richard's Sliders

21. ROAM

22. Sandos & Smash

23. Super Deluxe

24. That Guys Bistro

25. The Bleu Rooster

26. Tradesmen Coffee and Taphouse

27. Z-Grub at Esta Bien

Vegan & Veggie Burgers Vegan & Veggie Burgers

Blue Eyes Burgers

and Fries

Chili Crisp Smashie Veggie

House made chili crisp, double American cheese, kewpie mayo, marinated cucumbers, shaved cabbage, Oregon chickpea & mushroom smash patty on an inverted bun.

706 NE Greenwood Ave #100, Bend

Mountain Burger

Vegan Sweet Potato

Burger

House Made Potato, Quinoa & Black Bean Patty, Avocado Spread, Iceberg Lettuce, Tomatoes, Cucumbers, Vegan Bun.

2748 NW Crossing Dr, Bend

Immersion Brewing

Vegetarian - The Wild One

A Beyond Beef patty smothered in smoked Tillamook cheese fondue topped with rocket greens, caramelized onions, & dijonnaise on top of a ciabatta bun.

550 SW Industrial Way #185, Bend

LIT Burger - Veggie Super Deluxe

Two of our signature veggie patties, topped with lettuce, cherry peppers and crispy fried jalapeños, then dressed with smokey BBQ sauce and jalapeño cheddar cheese sauce, all perfectly balanced inside of a toasted potato roll.

805 NE 3rd St, Bend

Burgers Burgers

(Tonkatsu On A Burger)

Chicharrón-Breaded Pork Cutlet, Double Patty, Cabbage Slaw, White American, Curried Ketchup.

536 NW Arizona Ave, Bend

Deschutes

This flavorful bun-less burger features a ¼ lb beef patty topped with Tillamook white cheddar, pickled carrot slaw, our signature burger sauce, and a unique watermelon rind relish for a sweet and tangy kick. You can customize your bowl by choosing a base of rice and quinoa mix, fried potatoes, or a green salad.

308 SW Evergreen Ave, Redmond Truff Burger

Double Smash Patty, Fried Shallots, Arugula, Bacon Jam, Gruyere Truffle'd Mornay, Chives and an Umami Mustard Aoili.

1019 NW Brooks St, Bend

All American Burger Bend Burger Co.

NW Natural chuck roast patty , pickle, onion, American cheese, The Burger Company's "ALL American Sauce" and served on a Rustic Potato Bun. Includes fries! Also see Redmond Burger Co. 1939 NE 3rd St, Bend

Crux Fermentation Project

Chopped Cheese

Seasoned Beef, American Cheese, house made burger sauce topped with fresh iceberg lettuce, onion, tomato and pickles. Served on a Big Ed's Hoagie.

50 SW Division St, Bend

Currents at Riverhouse

Smoke on the Water

Flame grilled 8oz. Oregon Beef Burger, Tillamook Cheddar, Slow cooked Pulled Pork, Currents BBQ sauce, Smoked onion aioli, House made Crispy Onion Strings on Big Ed's Brioche Bun.

3075 US-97 BUS, Bend

More Burgers! More Burgers!

Blue Eyes Burgers & Fries

Chili Crisp Smashie

House made chili crisp, double American cheese, kewpie mayo, marinated cucumbers, shaved cabbage & Pitchfork T grass fed beef on an inverted bun. Veggie option available.

706 NE Greenwood Ave #100, Bend

Bluma's Chicken & Waffles

Smash Burger Sliders

Fresh seared chuck / American cheese / caramelized onions / “baconaise” / lettuce / tomato.

566 SW Mill View Way, Bend

Dogs & Fries

Mushroom Swiss Burger

93% Lean Ground Beef, Caramelized Onions, Caramelized Mushroom, Swiss cheeses, Topped with our house Garlic Aioli. Bend Airport location only.

63136 Powell Butte Rd, Bend

Fire on the Mountain

Quesadilla Burger

Quesadilla burger, with pico de gallo, cheddar cheese, green onions, and a side of house-made queso.

Boneyard Pub

Korean BBQ Burger

Gochugaru cured pork belly, grilled beef patty, Korean BBQ sauce, kimchi, marinated cucumbers, sesame

1955 NE Division St, Bend

Initiative Brewing

Aloha Burger

A juicy 4oz burger loaded with Swiss cheese, teriyaki Spam, a pan-fried pineapple ring, lettuce, tomato, and roasted garlic habanero aioli on a toasted brioche bun from Big Ed’s Bakery.

715 SW 4th St, Madras

424 NW 5th St, Redmond

Jackson's Corner

Big Jac®

6 oz. grass fed and finished Pitchfork-T beef patty, house-made pickles, shaved onions, crispy lettuce, and burger sauce on a sesame seed brioche bun from Jackson’s Bakery.

845 NW Delaware Ave, Bend

637 NE 3rd St, Bend

Immersion Brewing

The Wild One

A burger patty mixed with wild boar, elk, and wagyu beef smothered in smoked Tillamook cheese fondue topped with rocket greens, caramelized onions, & dijonnaise on a ciabatta bun. Veggie option available.

550 SW Industrial Way #185, Bend

Prost!

Prostrami Burger

Oregon-raised beef patty topped with muenster, festbier-poached pastrami, spicy dijon, kraut on a toasted pretzel roll.

40 SW Century Dr #140, Bend

Redmond Burger Co.

All American Burger

NW Natural chuck roast patty , pickle, onion American cheese, The Burger Company's "ALL American Sauce" and served on a Rustic Potato Bun. Includes fries!

249 NW 6th St, Redmond

Even More Burgers! Even More Burgers!

Richard's Sliders

Spicy Thick BBQ Bacon Slider

Come try the Spicy Thick BBQ Bacon Slider! It’s packing so much goodness, it barely fits inside its cute little bun. It has a small footprint, but it’s plenty big on flavor!

245 SW 6th St, Bend

Luckey's Woodsman

Luckey's Smash + Midnight Brisket

Well Rooted Farms burger, Tillamook white cheddar, grilled shallots, dill pickle slaw, chipotle aioli. PLUS a free add-on of brisket.

352 E Hood Ave Suite B, Sisters

Mountain Burger

The Mountain Burger

100% Grass Fed Beef Patty, Mountain Sauce, House Made American Cheese, Iceberg Lettuce, Pickles. Vegan option available

2747 NW Crossing Dr, Bend

Sandos & Smash

The

Tumalo Burger

Double smash patty with Colby Jack cheese, jalapeño aioli, peppered bacon, crispy onions and bbq sauce on a Big Ed's Texas toast bun.

19860 7th St, Tumalo

Super Deluxe

LIT Burger

Two of our signature all-beef patties, topped with lettuce, cherry peppers and crispy fried jalapeños, then dressed with smokey BBQ sauce and jalapeño cheddar cheese sauce, all perfectly balanced inside of a toasted potato roll.

Veggie option available. 805 NE 3rd St, Bend

That Guys Bistro

The "BOB" Burger

Balsamic glazed Onions on a double cheese burger with pickles and TG sauce on Big Ed's Texas Bun.

61147 S Hwy 97, Bend

Big Smash and Chicken Little ROAM

Big Ed’s brioche bun, smashed wagyu, white cheddar, caramelized onions, spicy hoisin mayo, ginger miso slaw, garnished with a bang bang chicken slider.

10 NW Minnesota Ave #100, Bend

The Bleu Rooster

The B.O.M.G Burger

Bacon, Onions, Mushrooms, Garlic.

1424 NE Cushing Dr Cart #3, Bend

Tradesmen Coffee and Taphouse

Carnitas Burger

Sink your teeth into this mouthwatering masterpiece—juicy beef patty grilled to perfection, topped with tender pulled pork, melted cheese, and a fresh, zesty pico de gallo. It’s a bold fusion of smoky, savory, and tangy flavors all stacked in one epic bite.

384 SW Upper Terrace Dr #100, Bend

Z-Grub at Esta Bien

Smash Bacon BBQ

Premium ground beef caramelized onions, crispy bacon, sharp cheddar, beer cheese, z-grub special sauce.

221 NW Hill St, Bend

CULTURE

WIn This Together

High desert

writer and Oregon Poet Laureate Ellen Waterston’s new book,

“We Could Die Doing This,” compiles treasured “Third Act” columns

By Ryan J. Prado

hen brainstorming a title for her latest book, Ellen Waterston, along with Source Weekly publisher Aaron Switzer, knew they had to hit a bullseye. Composed of columns from her monthly series, “The Third Act,” which Waterston has been penning since 2021, the central thesis of ageing and ageism necessitated something punchy. She recalled her children’s insistence that she often repeated a specific statement when accompanying them in various new adventures — as passenger when they were practicing for their driver’s licenses, wild vacations, etc.

“I don’t know that I said it a lot, but they would maintain that I did, and do, say: ‘We could die doing this,’” Waterston explains.

The phrase stuck, and so became the final touches on the publishing adventure of Source Media’s inaugural book publication, “We Could Die Doing This: Dispatches on Ageing From Oregon’s Outback.”

Dedicated readers of the Source Weekly, and those for whom the written word is an artform to be knelt before in various states of awe, should already be aware of Ellen Waterston. The high desert scribe has carved out a deep presence in Oregon and beyond through several published books of poetry and prose, as well as her monthly column in this paper. Waterston was named Oregon’s 11th Poet Laureate in August 2024, and has maintained a breakneck pace of appearances and speeches in that capacity, all the while keeping a close pulse on the emotional, existential and — more often now — political bedrock of growing older for column fodder.

“I hear from younger people that they read my column all the time. Even if people don’t like it, it’s like public art: If it causes any reaction, they’ve thought about it.”

—ELLEN WATERSTON

In “We Could Die Doing This,” Waterston casts a wide net of foci for her column collection, foregoing the pull to weed past pieces with regional highlights like Chapter 32’s essay, “Existence Value,” which includes hyperlocal references to organizations like the Central Oregon Chapter of Great Old Broads for Wilderness, or the Summer Fishtrap Gathering in Joseph, Oregon. Indeed, Waterston retains the balance of her colloquial delving into subjects that put the ageists among us on notice while also representing the place she so lovingly writes about and calls home. Chapters are separated by the season they were written within, creating a homey yearlong snapshot.

“I really love loving something as much as I love writing and poetry in Oregon,” Waterston says. “Especially this desert.”

“The Third Act” began as a way for Waterston to address and dissect some of the minutiae surrounding ageism that she began to see as more rampant the older she grew.

“Ageing is something we all have in common,” she says, “and ageism is something you’re not prepared for.”

The subtleties of ageist offenses are given vivid dressings-down in Waterston’s columns, perhaps most unabashedly in Chapter 6’s “Old Does Not Mean Addled.” In it, Waterston examines the often-patronizing huzzahs of younger strangers while hiking who feel compelled to give sympathetic cheerleading in

the form of “Good job!” Or, “You’re an inspiration!” Written with Waterston’s stealth humor and investment in understanding, her chapters shine with acerbic calls for respect and empathy for those card-carrying members of a certain age.

“It’s a fascinating moment where people go from this arms-length sympathy, as though ageing is a disease they’ll never get, to the shift of realizing we’re in this together,” she says. “And it’s the ‘in this together’ that I try to focus on.”

Over the past three years, Waterston has examined deficiencies in the health care system for older citizens, sex life in your 70s and the importance of a sense of purpose and contribution to society and the culture, among many other wide-ranging topics. Throughout her run of columns that comprise “We Could Die Doing This,” she has found herself surprised by the complexity of the unforeseen roadblocks that stymie the older populace during her research.

“What I’m astounded by is the challenges that hit people,” Waterston says. “There’s this sort of calibration that doesn’t take into account surprise challenges — whether they’re within a family, within your own health, whether they’re an economic crisis that throws some 30- or 40-year-old right out into the world without the security they thought they’d just spent the last 10 years getting an education for. Ageing — or being old — is no different.”

In light of her attention to the above, Waterston’s columns have emerged as a touchstone for her readers over the years. Her hope to reach more than just the older audience she’s advocating for and representing has proven to bear out.

“I hear from younger people that they read my column all the time,” she says. “Even if people don’t like it, it’s like public art: If it causes any reaction, they’ve thought about it. So I’m happy then.”

Author! Author! presents Ellen Waterston Thu., April 3, 7pm Caldera High School Auditorium 60925 SE 15th St., Bend $35

COCC Poetry Month Events with Ellen Waterston: Writing Workshops, Poetry Readings and Conversations

Wed., April 16, Noon, COCC Prineville Campus

Wed., April 16, 4pm, COCC Redmond Campus, RTEC Student Commons

Thu., April 17, 4pm, COCC Bend Campus, Barber Library

Thu., April 17, 6pm, COCC Prineville and Madras Campuses (live stream event)

Ellen Waterston at Fire Drill Fridays.

Ellen Waterston, author and poet.

Satired

“Death of a Unicorn” misses the point

By Jared Rasic

How smart does a satire really need to be? This has been on my mind since the release of Bong Joon Ho’s fun but flawed “Mickey 17” when I realized that if an explosive filled with ideas is dropped on America, maybe there’s no room for subtlety anymore — especially if it needs to land on as many people as possible. Long gone are the days when movies of fierce, raging anger and intelligence like “Network” and “Dr. Strangelove” connect with general audiences outside of critics and cinephiles. The last few genuinely brilliant satires like “The Death of Stalin,” “In the Loop” and “Sorry to Bother You” were hardly seen by audiences in the United States.

“Death of a Unicorn” makes “Mickey 17” look like a masterclass of subtlety in comparison, instead leaning into an “eat the rich” narrative filled with such cartoonishly evil billionaires and endless jokes without punchlines that we’re not given room to provoke our own thoughts out of the predictable and pedestrian story. Instead, we’re left with a decent, if schlocky monster movie that thinks it’s much smarter than it really is (which, hilariously, is more satirical of our modern times than the movie itself).

Paul Rudd and Jenna Ortega are a strained father and daughter headed to a nature preserve/massive estate of the odious Odell Leopold (the always great Richard E. Grant), his ruthless wife, Belinda (a never funnier Téa Leoni), and his profoundly stupid yet confident son, Shepard (a movie stealing Will Poulter). They’re a family of billionaires who’ve made their fortune from pharmaceuticals (among other things) and are vetting the middle-class lawyer Rudd to see if they want him on board as a full-time conservator.

On the way, Rudd hits a baby unicorn with his rental, bludgeons it to death (for mercy?) and shoves it in the backseat, hoping to bring no attention to the dead mythological creature in his car before he signs a contract and sets himself and his daughter up for life. Long story short: Baby unicorn isn’t dead, evil billionaires want to harvest it for its healing properties and the giant, monstrous mom and dad unicorns want their baby back and go on a bloody killing spree to get the lil’ one.

What we have here is equal parts “Jurassic Park” (without the wonder or tension) and “Parasite” (without the subtle intelligence or sly humor) mixed with a father-daughter dramedy that tonally has no idea which way to bend, so ends up being fairly generic even with such an original premise. It doesn’t work well enough at any of the different sub-genres to be very memorable, even though it’s fitfully entertaining on first viewing and only a glob of wasted potential in retrospect.

The film periodically shines as a gory monster movie with clueless idiots getting impaled by unicorn horns (UnicHorns?) and the soulless billionaires having their intestines pulled out by magical creatures, but because the characters are such thinly sketched caricatures of people, we’re never given much reason to care about their violently entertaining fates. None of this is the fault of the cast, who are uniformly excellent, even though a slightly miscast Rudd is so inherently likable that it’s hard to buy him as a weaselly dweeb.

The fault lies squarely with writer/director Alex Scharfman, who, while having an original premise and a very game cast, doesn’t nail the humor sprinkled throughout the script and directs artlessly,

without tension, momentum or grace. This should have been an immediate cult classic along the lines of “Sorry to Bother You” or “Get Out,” but will be forgettable to most as soon as the credits roll. Scharfman has potential, but “Death of a Unicorn” is hobbled by many rookie filmmaker mistakes. Satire can still be broad and “dumb” while being hilarious and thought-provoking. “Idiocracy,” “Team America,” “Tropic Thunder” and “They Live” are goofy as hell while all having something intelligent and immediate to say. Even so, most people can watch those movies and laugh their asses off without having to delve into the serious themes and ideas buried beneath the explosions and fart jokes. Levels are nice.

So, to answer my question from the top… satires should, at the very least, make us examine the current state of our world through the warped lens of artists with something of import to say. Unintelligence can be brilliant and prestige can be ridiculous if examined by filmmakers with a vision and desire to shape ideas in others. Those who can recognize subtlety in movies still deserve it even if folks who don’t miss the point completely. We should raise our hackles against the dumbing down of the United States before intelligence, empathy and logic become the true mythological creatures.

“Death of a Unicorn” Dir. Alex Scharfman Now playing at Regal Old Mill, Sisters Movie House,

Madras Cinema 5

A great cast can’t save “Death of a Unicorn”… but it comes close.

Wildfire Wise, Wildlife Friendly: Smart Landscaping

With thoughtful planning, Central Oregonians can safeguard their properties and nurture vital wildlife habitats

By Elise Wolf

Central Oregonians today are navigating a difficult balance between home fire protection and local wildlife habitats. Stunning landscapes and abundant wildlife were why many of us relocated to this unique area. Those who love insects and birds take it further by planting and retaining wildlife-nurturing native shrubs and wildflowers.

According to Doug Tallamy’s groundbreaking work, “Nature’s Best Hope,” native plants support significantly more pollinators, birds and other creatures than nonnatives. Most birds and small fauna eat insects, and baby birds’ lives depend on them. Native shrubs are critical, nature-supporting species in our arid, high desert ecosystems.

Unfortunately, requirements or recommendations to remove flammable plants leave many unsure how to provide for our wild neighbors while protecting homes. Some plants are obviously fire prone, while for others, it’s unclear. Most plant lists do not list flammability as a characteristic, and any plant can burn under the right conditions. Already, some property owners are being excessively cautious, stripping their properties of native shrubs and plants. Such actions leave landscapes unable to support much wildlife.

The good news? We can create fire-resistant and wildlife-supporting backyard habitats with creative solutions and strategic planning.

What’s a Flammable Plant?

General characteristics of what is fire risky are helpful: Highly flammable plants typically contain fine, dry material like dead twigs, needles or leaves. They often have aromatic foliage or resinous sap, rich in volatile oils or waxes, making them prone to ignite easily and burn intensely. Ornamental juniper and cedar shrubs, as well as tall grasses, are both risky. In contrast, fire-resistant plants exhibit traits such as open, airy branches that prevent debris buildup, moist and flexible leaves and minimal sap or resin. Many native deciduous trees, shrubs and perennials fit this description, offering safer options for homeowners.

Getting Wildfire-Wise and Wildlife-Friendly!

Generally, fire prevention advice centers around protective zones: zero to five feet, five to 30 feet and 30 to 100 feet. Plan for inconsistency in the advice and see the sidebar for links to helpful fire and plant resources. Native Plant Tips and Yard Suggestions 1. Get in the zone.

Hardscaping is preferred in the zero- to five-foot zone closest to your home, though some fire-resistant plants seem to be allowed if kept healthy and free of dead materials. Bend’s rules are confusing, but it’s recommended to cut back plants sufficiently below the eaves.

In the five- to 30-foot zone, get more creative. Consider low-growing flowers such as pussytoes, western wallflower and blue flax. Carefully space and keep short shrubs, like rock spiraea, and larger perennials, like Oregon sunshine. Intermix these with hardscape and groundcovers, including creeping phlox and wild strawberry (supporting a respectable 69 caterpillar species).

From 30 to 100 feet, carefully space moderate to low shrubs and trees. Larger native shrubs can be placed here, including meadowsweet spiraea (which supports 54 caterpillar species), elderberry or Woods’ rose. Space 10 feet apart and prune regularly to remove dead material. Surround these habitat patches with fire-resistant native groundcovers, larger landscape features (like rocks) and water features like bird baths or water-catching pebble streams.

Out from 100 feet to wilder spaces, you can provide wildlife with more food, hiding areas and nesting spots. Instead of extensive dense plantings, establish spaced “clumps” or “islands” of habitat plants. Our native black chokeberry and serviceberry are pros at housing and feeding insects: 240 and 81 caterpillar species, respectively. The blooming beauty rabbitbrush has much-needed nectars and buzzes with insects when other flowers have stopped producing in late summer. Keep these debris free and give a tad of water for more fire resistance. With smart vertical and horizontal spacing, you can retain native vegetation without creating fuel ladders.

2. Maintain mature trees and consider deciduous options.

Our stately ponderosa’s cones feed birds and mammals. Carefully managed, the mature juniper tree gives bird feeder visitors nesting holes, insect meals and safety; they are

a critical wildlife tree. (Age juniper by their rounder shape, not height.) Mountain ash sustains cedar waxwings and robins through winter. Aspen and rocky mountain maple provide nesting sites and forage. All provide shade, protect other plants and soils and keep humans cool during hot summers. Limb in the fall and don’t prune more than 30% to save birds and prevent tree stress.

3. Learn about native plants (see sidebar below).

Many Central Oregon native plants offer fire resistance while benefiting wildlife. However, some resources list plants as “native” even though they come from different ecosystems, so choose locals. Once established, local native plants require less water and are pesticide free, more resilient and easier to maintain.

Please don’t dig up wild native plants! Most don’t survive transplanting due to deep roots and associations with other plants. Wild harvesting is harming wildflower populations around the nation — native wildflowers face historic challenges from heat, drought and habitat loss. Choose nursery-grown native plants (and seeds) from reputable producers who use seeds from plants they have grown.

4. Keep it clean and green!

Seasonal maintenance is crucial: Keep out dead material and water to reduce flammability. Desert and high desert plants are less oily and flammable when watered a bit more. Remove flammable debris near your home but create leaf litter areas away from the home for insect habitat. Beneficial insects, like caterpillar pupae, hibernate in leaf litter, near rocks and under logs. Weeds like cheatgrass, nonnative ornamental grasses and Canada thistle are highly flammable. Once removed, native wildflowers pop up naturally.

Finding Balance

Balancing fire safety and wildlife habitat requires thoughtful planning and realistic expectations. Each step helps preserve Central Oregon’s ecological integrity while protecting your home. With creativity and commitment to maintenance, you can create a landscape that’s both fire wise and wildlife friendly.

Choosing Plants Resources

Spring events are popping up! Check out the below organizations and websites at bendsource.com/ smart-landscaping for tips on plants and pollinator garden events. Bend’s downtown Earth Day Fair on Saturday, April 26 will have plant sales.

OSU Extension Catalog of Fire-Resistant Plants for Home Landscapes

Earth Day Fair

Pollinator Pathway Bend’s Native Plant List

Native Plant Society of Oregon’s High Desert Chapter

Worthy Garden Club

WinterCreek Nursery at High Desert Horticultural Center

National Wildlife Federation’s Native Plant Finder

Friends and Neighbors of the Deschutes Canyon Area

Great Basin Nursery

A cedar waxwing noshes on local native serviceberry.

Tom Koerner USFWS

TomKoerner USFWS

Hunt’s bumblebee on rabbitbrush.

L sa Sanco

A swallowtail butterfly visits showy milkweed at Worthy Brewing’s garden.

By Savannah Mendoza

Grow, Create, Inspire: Home and Garden Workshops This Spring

From floral centerpieces to embroidered art, discover ways to craft and grow this spring

Spring is the perfect time to try something new and get creative. Whether you’re interested in gardening, crafting or hands-on DIY projects, these upcoming workshops and events offer a great way to learn and embrace spring while adding creativity to your home and garden.

The Cottage Craft Club

Bring a craft, in-progress project or garments for mending to a casual evening of creativity and conversation. Tea and some art supplies will be provided for spontaneous crafting. First Wednesday of every month, 5-7:30pm at Pomegranate Home and Garden. 120 NE River Mall Ave., Bend. Free.

Living Spring Centerpiece Workshop

Create a stunning, spring-inspired centerpiece featuring vibrant pansies, violas, fragrant herbs like rosemary and thyme, soft grasses and delicate dried flowers. Sun., April 13, 11am-Noon at Schilling’s Garden Market. 64640 Old Bend-Redmond Hwy, Bend. $70.

Fused Glass Plant Stakes: Mushrooms

Design your own colorful glass mushrooms to add whimsical charm to your garden or potted plants. No glass cutting required — just pick your colors and shapes! Wed., April 16, 6-8pm at DIY Cave. 444 SE Ninth St., Ste. 150, Bend. $159.

Pollinator Pathway Class

Learn about the benefits of container gardening pollinators in this greenhouse presentation. Attendees receive a discount on supplies to create their own pollinator-friendly garden at home. Sat., April 19, 10-11am at Moonfire and Sun Garden Center. 61944 SE 27th St., Bend. Free.

Ceramic Birdhouses Workshop

Craft your own unique ceramic birdhouse in a two-part workshop, focusing on hand-building techniques, decoration and finishing touches. Sat., April 19, 11am-1pm at Pomegranate Home and Garden.

120 NE River Mall Ave., Bend. $175.

Orchard Care Class

Whether you have one fruit tree or an entire orchard, this class will teach you how to balance tree health, productivity and esthetics through proper pruning. Sun., April 27, 11am-Noon at Schilling’s Garden Market. 64640 Old Bend-Redmond Hwy, Bend. $5.

Sassy Stiches

Add a little edge to your embroidery! Learn five essential stitches while creating a floral border around a saucy saying of your choice. Wed., April 30, 5:30-7:30pm at FREAK’N ART. 1265 NW Wall St., Bend. $60.

Framed Pressed Flowers Workshop

Create a beautiful framed masterpiece using delicate dried flowers. Learn pressing and gluing techniques to craft a one-of-a-kind floral display. Tue., May 6, 5:30-7:30pm at FREAK’N ART. 1265 NW Wall St., Bend. $85.

Wrangling Cactus with Julie Lay

Julie, the owner of Smith Rock Cactus Company, shares her expertise on growing cacti in Central Oregon. Learn from her experience propagating over 60 varieties! Sat., May 17, 11am-Noon at Schilling’s Garden Market. 64640 Old Bend-Redmond Hwy, Bend. $5.

Schilling's Garden Market IG

Crossword “Themeless Challenger”

1. “Lupin” star ___ Sy

One on the horse

14. ___ Singh (Pip’s boyfriend in “A Good Girl’s Guide To Murder”)

Fish served in kabayaki

Lesley who won the 2013 Edward R. Murrow Award for Overall Excellence in Television

Calligrapher’s holders

Simpson in the “Old Man Yells At Cloud” meme

Hold back

Graceful birds

29. First stage in the Kübler-Ross stages of grief

DOWN

1. Royal circles

2. Place to shop

By Brendan Emmett Quigley

50. Some Lumon employees off the severed floor in “Severance”

51. Not moving

53. One of the “Little Women”

They might hold pipettes, bunsen burners and a balance 58. With one’s mouth wide-open 62. Composer Albéniz 63. Arctic chicken-like bird

65. Oscar-winner for “The King’s Speech” 66. Hold the throne 67. Dweeb 68. Woman’s name that means “star” 69. Oil-producing overseers: Abbr.

70. Fully groks

3. Sneaker brand

4. “Boyhood” director Linklater

5. Kind of computer port

6. She answers a lot of iPhone calls

7. African spiral-horned antelope

8. Gently moved a cradle

9. Camper’s spot

10. Hamilton’s home

11. Raise red flags

12. “That sounds bad, old chap”

13. Jeans problem

18. “Three Tall Women” playwright

22. Put one’s foot down?

24. Interplanetary visitors, for short

26. Currencies with an architectural theme on its notes

27. Move effortlessly

28. “Erie Canal” mule

30. Joined at the hip

31. “Peanuts” character with a secuity blanket

32. “___ I says so”

33. Case worker?

35. “Mr. Robot” creator Esmail

38. Sporty Pontiac

41. Cheaper tuition category

42. Embassy aide

43. Cheater’s paper

45. Freeloader

46. Best-of-the-best crew

47. Ropes on a boat

49. Elite, in the NFL

52. Back off

54. Run on sentence?

55. “WYSIWYG”

56. Boston : T :: San Francisco : ___

57. Saving time?

59. “Let Us Now Praise Famous Men” coauthor James

60. Hair line?

Concludes

Word with hall, room, or center

Puzzle for the week of March 31, 2025

Pearl’s Puzzle Difficulty Level

We’re Local! Questions, comments or suggestions for our local puzzle guru? Email Pearl Stark at pearl@bendsource.com © Pearl Stark mathpuzzlesgames.com/quodoku

Difficulty Level:

Fill in every row, column, and 3x3 box with each of the letters exactly once. FIRM TABLE

Fill in every row, column, and 3x3 box with each of the letters F I R M

The highlighted letters read left to right and top to bottom will complete the quote: “Ah, _____s! They’re more than just adorable little creatures on whom you can _____ your _____s.”

—Tina Fey, Bossypants

The highlighted letters read left to right and top to bottom will “A

Answer Puzzle for the week of March 24, 2025

ASTROLOGY

By Rob Brezsny

ARIES (March 21-April 19): Have you ever been part of an innovation team? Its goal is not simply to develop as many new ideas and approaches as possible, but rather to generate good, truly useful new ideas and approaches. The most effective teams don’t necessarily move with frantic speed. In fact, there’s value in “productive pausing”—strategic interludes of reflection that allow deeper revelations to arise. It’s crucial to know when to slow down and let hunches and insights ripen. This is excellent

as Dream Pool Essays. In this masterwork, he wrote about everything that intrigued and fascinated him, including the effects of lightning strikes, the nature of eclipses, how to make swords, building tall pagodas resistant to wind damage, and a pearllike UFO he saw regularly. I think the coming weeks would be an excellent time for you to begin your own version of Dream Torrent Essays, Gemini. You could generate maximum fun and self-knowledge by compiling all the reasons you love being alive on this mysterious planet.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Libran jazz pianist and composer Thelonious Monk was an influential musician in part because he didn't conform to conventions. According to music writer Tarik Moody, Monk's music features "dissonances and angular melodic twists, and are consistent with his unorthodox approach to the piano, which combined a highly percussive attack with abrupt, dramatic use of switched key releases, silences, and hesitations." Many of Monk’s most innovative improvisations grew out of apparent mistakes. He explored and developed wrong notes to make them into intentional aspects of his compositions. "His genius," said another critic, "lay in his ability to transform accidents into opportunities." I'd love to see you capitalize on that approach, Libra. You now have the power to ensure that seeming gaffes and glitches will yield positive and useful results.

Author Richard Wright said that people “can starve from a lack of self-realization as much as they can from a lack of bread." That’s rarely a problem for Scorpios, since you are among the zodiac’s best sleuths when exploring your inner depths. Does any other sign naturally gather more self-realization than you? No! But having said that, I want to alert you to the fact that you are entering a phase when you will benefit from even deeper dives into your mysterious depths. It’s an excellent time to wander into the frontiers of your self-knowledge.

CANCER (June 21-July 22): The mimosa is known as the “sensitive plant.” The moment its leaves are touched, they fold inwards, exposing the sharp spines of its stems. Why do they do that? Botanists say it’s meant to deter herbivore predators from nibbling it. Although you Cancerians sometimes display equally extreme hair-trigger defense mechanisms, I’m happy to say that you will be unlikely to do so in the coming weeks. You are primed to be extra bold and super-responsive. Here's one reason why: You are finely tuning your protective instincts so they work with effective grace—neither too strong nor too weak. That’s an excellent formula to make fun new connections and avoid mediocre new connections.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): While sleeping on a recent night, I dreamed of an old friend I had lost touch with for 20 years. It was wonderful. We were remembering mystic breakthroughs we had while younger. When I awoke the next day, I was delighted to find an email from this friend, hoping for us to be back in touch. Hyper-rationalists might call this coincidence, but I know it was magical synchronicity—evidence that we humans are connected via the psychic airways. I’m predicting at least three such events for you in the coming weeks, Leo. Treat them with the reverence they deserve. Take them seriously as signs of things you should pay closer attention to.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): A star that astronomers call EBLM J0555-57Ab is 670 light years away. Its diameter is the smallest of any known star, just a bit larger than Saturn in our solar system. But its mass is 250 times greater than Saturn’s. It’s concentrated and potent. I’ll be inclined to compare you to EBLM J0555-57Ab in the coming weeks, Virgo. Like this modest-sized powerhouse, you will be stronger and more impactful than you may appear. The quality you offer will be more effective than others’ quantity. Your focused, dynamic efficiency could make you extra influential.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): Andean condors hunt for prey while flying through the sky with their 10-foot wingspan. They’ve got a good strategy for conserving their energy: riding on thermal currents with little effort, often soaring for vast distances. I recommend that you channel the Andean condor in the coming weeks, Sagittarius. Always be angling to work smarter rather than harder. Look for tricks and workarounds that will enable you to be as efficient and stress-free as possible. Trust that as you align yourself with natural flows, you will cover a lot of ground with minimal strain. Celebrate the freedom that comes from embracing ease.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): While hiking in nature, people often rely on their phones to navigate. And what if their battery dies or there’s poor cell service out in the middle of nowhere? They might use an old-fashioned compass. It won’t reveal which direction to go, but will keep the hiker apprised of where true north lies. In that spirit, Capricorn, I invite you to make April the month you get in closer communication with your own inner compass. It’s a favorable and necessary time to become even more highly attuned to your ultimate guide and champion: the voice of the teacher within you.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): "It is advisable to look from the tide pool to the stars and then back to the tide pool." Aquarian author John Steinbeck wrote that. I think it’s useful counsel for you in the coming weeks. What does it imply? Here are a few meditations. 1. Be tuned in to both the small personal world right in front of you and the big picture of the wider world. Balance and coordinate your understandings of them. 2. If you shift your perspective back and forth between the macrocosmic and microcosmic perspectives, you’re far more likely to understand how life really works. 3. You may flourish best by blending the evaluative powers of your objective, rational analysis and your intuitive, nonrational feelings.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): The earliest humans used bones and pebbles to assist in arithmetic calculations. Later, they got help from abacuses and crude mechanical devices. Electronic calculators didn’t arrive until the 1960s. All were efforts to bypass tedious reckonings. All were ingenious attempts to manage necessary details that weren’t much fun. In that spirit, I encourage you to seek time-saving, boredom-preventing innovations in the coming weeks. Now is an excellent time to maximize your spacious ability to do things you love to do.

AWAKENING YOUR INNER HERO

A COLUMN TO HELP LOCALS LIVE A KINDER AND MORE COURAGEOUS LIFE

By Burt Gershater

24 Ways to Do Life Better

Doing life better is a job that never ends and the benefits never end either. That is a good job to take.

Something inspired me to write this list of ways to do life better. I hope to closely follow my own advice:

1. Forgive regularly. Resentment is a deep and sneaky poison. Do whatever it takes to send it on its way.

2. Offer sincere apologies… with no buts. “I am sorry” is one of the most powerful messages we can offer, however, only when we truly have sorrow for our behavior, when we do our best to not repeat whatever we’re sorry for and we don’t finish up our apology with a but….

3. Ask for what you need. Most of us haven’t mastered this one yet, so keep mustering the courage to be humble and risk rejection.

4. Donate to good causes. Volunteer your services. We’re all needed in this world and when we donate, everyone wins.

5. Listen better, ask good questions, and less “that reminds me of me.” True listening is done with our hearts, not our ears.

6. To combat your negative thoughts, try coming to your senses. Literally, “lose your mind and come to your senses.” Touch, look, listen, taste and smell. They can each be sanctuary.

7. Express gratitude throughout the day. There is not enough time to express our infinite blessings. Do it anyway. Take less, less, less for granted.

8. Go to a place of wonder and awe daily. We are teeny, weeny beings, even when our egos forget it. Wonder and awe remind us of our foundational reality.

9. Release your need to be right. First, you probably aren’t as right as often as you think you are. And second, hardly anyone ever wins these ego-tarnished skirmishes.

10. Make your bed every morning. We are here to do many, many simple tasks. Making your bed is a great one to begin the day humbly.

11. Look at yourself in the mirror honestly and whatever can be added, polished or removed: Do it. Dedication to personal growth is the key to transcending old patterns that have not, do not and never will serve our highest intentions.

12. See the beauty in everyone. Start

with yourself. Say, “I am beautiful. I am beautiful.” That is not a misprint.

13. Do not talk crap about anyone. Gossip hurts the speaker, the listener and the one gossiped about. It is also a false way to feel better about ourselves.

14. Light candles. Candles are reallife examples of holiness and are role models for us to keep our light shining.

15. Realize you are a candle, too, and all the other candles need your light. You ARE a candle.

16. Remember, you need other candles’ light as much as they need yours. We need to connect to other peoples’ hearts and souls in order for ours to flourish.

17. Disagree when it matters, but only respectfully! An exclamation point?! Yes!! We need to express our opinions with both our strength and respect. Being respectful is the key to creating a kinder world.

18. Strive to be a better human being. This one could be the banner for the entire list. Repeat daily, “I want to keep learning, growing and becoming the best human being I can be.”

19. Love more and continue to keep learning more about it. It’s an ever-fruitful, never-ending journey.

20. “Fake it ’till you make it” is an old wisdom from the 12 Step programs. Behave at your highest level even when you aren’t feeling like it. Feelings are ephemeral. Our hurtful words and actions are not.

21. Remember to express your deep gratitude throughout the day. You will love it.

22. Don’t take anything personally. It’s a lifetime effort that pays high dividends. It’s not about you.

23. Most anxiety is not worthy of our precious time and energy. Breathe into your belly. Trust. Share your fears with close friends. Consider meds, if needed. Many of us tolerate more anxiety in our system than is helpful.

24. Get professional help when you need it, or just want it. It can make all the difference in the world.

May we all journey on with a dedicated intent to bring more love and light into our world. Blessings.

TAKE ME HOME

By James Keane Broker RE/MAX Key Properties

Patience, preparation and pragmatism

Purchasing a home is a milestone, a significant financial and emotional undertaking. But the journey from open house to closing table is rarely a smooth, linear path. Navigating this complex process requires more than just financial readiness; it demands a resilient and adaptable mindset.

Firstly, embrace the understanding that perfection is a myth. No transaction is flawless. Expect hiccups, delays and unexpected challenges. From financing hurdles to inspection surprises, stressful moments are inevitable. Instead of succumbing to frustration, cultivate a problem-solving approach. View each obstacle as a temporary detour, not a roadblock. This mindset allows you to remain calm and focused, enabling you to make rational decisions when faced with adversity.

A crucial component of maintaining composure is comprehensive knowledge. This is where a skilled real estate agent becomes invaluable. They should act as your guide, demystifying the intricate process and explaining each step in detail. Ask questions, clarify doubts and ensure you understand the timelines and potential pitfalls. Being aware of the various stages, from pre-approval to closing, empowers you to anticipate potential issues and navigate them proactively. A good agent will provide a roadmap, allowing you to track your progress and manage your expectations.

Moreover, prepare for the reality of compromise. The real estate market is dynamic, and current trends

suggest a resurgence of buyer concessions. In this context, concessions refer to agreements where one party agrees to give something up or make certain allowances to facilitate the sale. For example, buyers might ask sellers to cover closing costs, make necessary repairs or reduce the purchase price. Sellers, conversely, might agree to these demands to secure a sale, particularly in a market where properties are taking a little longer to sell, coming out of a typical slow season.

This give-and-take negotiation requires flexibility and a willingness to compromise. Be prepared to prioritize your needs and identify areas where you can be flexible. Understand that achieving every single item on your wish list might not be realistic. Maintaining open communication with your agent is crucial during this phase. They can help you assess the value of each concession and negotiate effectively on your behalf. Ultimately, the right mindset for homebuying is a blend of patience, preparation and pragmatism. Embrace the inevitable imperfections, equip yourself with knowledge and approach negotiations with a spirit of compromise. By cultivating this balanced perspective, you can transform the potentially stressful experience of buying a home into a rewarding and fulfilling journey. Remember, your agent is your ally and your guide: Lean on their expertise to help you through the process and you will be well on your way to becoming a homeowner.

It’s time to plan for the best summer ever!

Listed by John Snippen of

$750,000

3 beds, 2.5 baths, 1,762 sq. ft., 0.11 acre (4,792 sq. ft.)

in 2023

Listed by Pattie and Megan Serbus of RE/MAX Key Properties

Listed by Matt Johnson and Cody Johnson

On Stands: May 15

Ad Deadline: April 30

• Camping with kids

• Summer reading adventures

• Eating light - Healthy summer snacks and meals

• Balancing work and kids during the summer

• Easy at-home science experiments

Get the word out about your classes, camps, family events and services in the next issue of Bend Nest, and look forward to an active and fulfilling season! — PLUS — The 2025 winners of the Best of the Nest Readers poll announced!

• Journaling for kids AND DON’T MISS...

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Don’t miss out on this opportunity. Reserve your space today!

Get ready for the 2025 edition of our highly anticipated Restaurant Guide! We're serving up a delectable selection of Central Oregon’s finest dining experiences, alongside the prestigious Restaurant of the Year and Food Cart of the Year awards. Plus, we'll be spotlighting the hottest newcomers with our Rookie Restaurant and Rookie Food Cart of the Year recognitions. Secure your spot in this must-have guide and connect with our engaged readership today.

Ad Deadline: April 16 | On Stands: April 24