Source Weekly December 15,2022

EDITOR’S NOTE:

Didn’t get enough of our Gift Guide last week, where we talked with local people about their holiday memories and plans for gift-giving? Then you’re in for a treat, because we’re back with more local celebs and their stories in this week’s edition. We have a whole lot of other great stuff for you, too: An intro to the Underground Book Gallery and its unique collections of materials, a review of a beloved Indian buffet, an overview of Bend’s growing DJ scene and so much more. With the holidays right around the corner, you should have plenty to peruse for gift-giving and hopefully some holiday vacation-time fun! Thanks for reading.

It’s getting cold, but Central Oregon is still climbing. Thanks to @highdesertclimbers for tagging us in this stellar photo by @britney.in.gram. For those still sending projects in the cold weather, make sure to bundle up and stay warm between climbs, or you can even opt for an inside climb!

The High Desert Climbers hosted its first rebolting work day on Dec. 11 at Smith Rock State Park and has more event information listed on its Instagram. Don’t forget to share your photos with us and tag @sourceweekly for a chance to be featured as Instagram of the week and in print as our Lightmeter. Winners receive a free print from @highdesertframeworks.

Photo courtesy of High Desert Climbers

OPINION

Whether you’re a person who’s motivated by economic concerns or environmental ones, there’s something to appreciate about the new Home Energy Score program coming to Bend.

Those who have bought or sold a home—or have thought about it—have probably heard various statistics about how much more they can garner from a home if that home has a new or updated kitchen or bathrooms. Improvements like that can run in the tens of thousands—yet homeowners often find them to be worthwhile endeavors, since they can bring so much more money in the door at sale time.

Why, then, is it so mind-blowing for people to wrap their heads around the notion of investing in a home’s efficiency? At least, that’s the feeling you might walk away with if you read some of the objections to the Home Energy Score program that the Bend City Council just unanimously moved to adopt in the city.

If it’s worth investing thousands into kitchens and bathrooms to make one’s home more attractive to buyers, shouldn’t it be well worth a couple hundred for the Home Energy Score assessment—and perhaps a few hundred more in energy-saving improvements like added insulation? As one commenter at the recent Council meeting put it, it adds the element of home performance into the buying process, and does it not by requiring anyone to make fixes, but rather through “mandatory transparency.”

Those opposed to the program, including many among the local real estate lobby, argued that buyers who really wanted to know how efficient a home is could voluntarily take part in the HES program (home inspectors already offer this service as value-added) or could request information from the utility companies about the amounts the previous occupants spent on natural gas or electricity. But that’s hardly an accurate accounting of how the new occupants might use the home and its utilities. Some people do a lot more laundry than others. Some like their home toasty; others don’t mind a little chill in the air.

and

To really find out the energy toll— and to really understand how to improve upon it—will now require an assessment that costs an estimated $300 or so when someone sells a home. It’s hardly a cost that is going to break most people who are selling a home, and the Council’s plan includes a provision for low-income households to get those costs covered if needed.

But the cost of the assessment shouldn’t be the primary focus. With building energy costs representing over half of the carbon emissions in Bend, according to city data—and with homes representing about 30% of the total— the effort to reduce some of those emissions by making one’s home more efficient has an environmental benefit.

So, too, does it have an economic one. By having someone come in and tell us where our homes are most inefficient and what we can do to improve it, people will have the tools to do those fixes and to thereby save money. In a sample Home Energy Score assessment from Hillsboro, Oregon—where an HES program is already in place— the example home had a current score of 6 out of 10. By implementing just a couple improvements that were suggested in the assessment, the estimate was that the home could achieve a score of 9 and save approximately $286 per year in energy costs—about the same cost as the assessment itself. That seems worthwhile for both economics and environment. We cannot reduce emissions on a local scale if we don’t do things differently than we’ve done them before. Likewise, as we are currently seeing in the natural gas arena, energy costs will only continue to go up. Isn’t it worth taking steps to conserve everywhere we can?

This program is going to result in some homes that go on the market seeing poor energy ratings. But instead of seeing that as a bad thing that means one’s dealing with a “bad house,” sellers—and buyers, for that matter—should see it as an area ripe for improvement. Just like the prospect of that brand-new kitchen with the elegant tile backsplash.

RE: NURSES OVERWHELMED AND UNDERSTAFFED NEWS, 12/8

Thank you for raising attention to the nursing shortage and the toll it takes on nurses and patients. It reinforces the need to figure out how to keep ourselves healthy using nature's medicine so that we don't need to lean on nurses/doctors so much.

A portion of the subtitle of your piece is what caught my attention. It states "survey of nurses in Oregon and across the country show understaffing is one of the primary causes for an ongoing crisis in health care." I think a more accurate statement would be "...is one of the primary symptoms of an ongoing crisis in health care." I would think that the primary cause is the system of health care itself. Then add in the lack of courage in addressing it, the greed we allow in Big Pharma and Big Ag, suppressed information on nature's medicine, the lack of access to healthy food and the dismal education system. There should be no surprise that there is a nursing shortage.

—Darlene Weaver

THANK YOU, VOTERS!

On behalf of the staff and students of Bend-La Pine Schools, I’d like to offer my hearty thanks to the voters and local community for your overwhelming support of the construction bond on the Nov. 8 ballot. Thank you for showing your commitment to students and public education by supporting this measure, which will upgrade safety and security, modernize classrooms and provide for critical maintenance and preservation projects across our district.

I believe the approval of this bond will ensure a better future for our students, our schools and our community.

Thank you to the many volunteers who helped lead the advocacy campaign. Thank you, also, to the numerous civic leaders, businesses, students and community members who endorsed the

HAVE

SOMETHING

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

Letters must be received by noon Friday for inclusion in the following week’s paper. Please limit letters to 250 words. Submission does not guarantee publication. Opinions printed here do not constitute an editorial endorsement of said opinions.

Letter of the week receives $5 to Palate!

bond and helped support its passage.

As we move ahead with 89 proposed projects, we will seek to honor the trust our community placed in us. We take our financial stewardship seriously and will aim to keep community members informed as the work progresses in the months and years ahead.

I am proud to be part of this community and, alongside our staff, will continue to strive to make our schools the best in the state and a source of pride for local residents.

In partnership, — Dr. Steven Cook, Superintendent BendLa Pine Schools

DANGER ZONE

The situation on Wall and Bond streets in downtown Bend is a DANGER ZONE. Emergency vehicle access is dangerously curtailed when streets are clogged with traffic and parked vehicles. A pedestrian is a highly vulnerable target crossing two lanes if either driver fails to stop. Extended length parked vehicles force drivers into the adjoining lane of traffic. Vehicles backing into traffic is problematic at best. The extension of café seating beyond the sidewalk further reduces traffic space and safety.

Suggestions to increase safety for pedestrians, cyclists, emergency vehicles and drivers are as follows:

Make Wall and Bond streets in downtown Bend not only one way but also ONE LANE for vehicular traffic and ONE lane for bicycles.

Restrict vehicular parking to one side of each street.

Permit parallel parking only.

Clearly mark boundaries for the length of parked vehicles and fine violators.

Post and enforce speed limits.

Install flashing yellow lights at pedestrian crossings or install traffic lights at all intersections.

Reduce the number of street signs to focus primarily on safety information.

Provide a variety of Tiny Trolleys for pedestrians to circulate in downtown without vehicles.

—Sue Bastian, For a Better Bend

RE: LEMON GULCH PROJECT AIMS FOR OCHOCO BIKE TRAILS. OUTSIDE, 12/1

I'd like to thank you for the Lemon Gulch article published on November 30th. I'm the board president of the Central Oregon Trail Alliance (COTA) and would like to share more details about the project alternatives.

Lemon Gulch is proposed within a 3,000-acre area of the 850,000-acre Ochoco National Forest. This would give bikers a better riding option and would reduce strain and conflict in other areas of the forest. Alternative #2 calls for 52 miles of new trails which is enough to allow something for everyone. More mileage in Lemon Gulch reduces the need for bikers to go elsewhere and that'd reduce conflict with hikers and equestrians. It also means more trail variety, which is great for riders of all abilities. Expert riders frequently contact COTA about the lack of technical, downhill trails and alternative #2 is the best option for that.

The other alternative worth considering is #6. This emerged from the process and reflects that compromise is required when accounting for other factors such as ecological and resource impacts. Alternative #6 offers a reasonable range of trail styles and mitigates a large amount of concerns raised with alternative #2. It's still a step in the right direction.

COTA has many members in Crook County and they'd love to see this project come to fruition. I hope the community will join us with its support. See the Ochoco Trails site for more details: https://ochocotrails.org/lemon-gulch/ —Bill Lynch

SNOW COUNTRY CUSTOMS

A note to newcomers: when someone's car is stuck in the snow in front of you, you may be tempted to sit in your vehicle, angrily fuming, until an "official person" comes along to unstick them. What you are supposed to do, unless you are injured or disabled, is get out of your effing car and help! Help by pushing, help by putting cat litter or sand under the wheels of the stuck car, or help by directing traffic around the stuck vehicle.

Now you know.

As Red Green said, "I'm pulling for ya, we're all in this together."

—Kake Huck

Letter of the Week:

Kake: For real, though. To quote Alice Walker’s book title, “We are the ones we have been waiting for!” (The phrase also appears in June Jordan’s “Poem for South African Women.”)

Great timing after the weekend’s snow. Come on down and grab yourself a gift card to Palate.

—Nicole Vulcan

Saved Worrell Park

The 1-acre downtown park will remain intact after commissioners considered it for redevelopment

Jack Harvel

The Deschutes County Board of Commissioners will no longer seek to redevelop Worrell Park to add 67 parking spots at the expense of some of the land at the neighborhood park. In January commissioners asked staff to develop a $2.5 million request for proposals to create the parking spaces. Some Deschutes County residents pushed back with the website, saveworrellpark.com, hosting events in the park and writing to commissioners asking them to explore other options.

Commissioners decided to expand into Worrell Park based on an analysis from 2019 that concluded the parking at the Deschutes County Campus — which includes the courthouse and other government buildings — was strained and would only get worse with planned expansions to the campus. A more recent analysis, however, says the county can provide parking to employees and visitors at the campus with better managed parking rather than new spaces.

“What we find is the general unrestricted parking that’s available is getting pretty full,” Joe Bessman of Transight Consulting told commissioners at the

board’s meeting on Dec. 7. “But I want to pause there, because the one category, the fleet parking, is the one category that’s not coming onto campus and leaving, that’s the category that’s not moving.”

Parking is considered “full” when it’s at about 85% capacity, Bessman said. The analysis found that “general” parking spaces often exceeded 85% full at the peak hours of 11 am, that permitted parking spots neared 85% and visitor

and fleet parking spots were between 60-70% full. In total, about 75% of the campus-wide parking spaces were full at peak hours.

The analysis concluded that additional parking spaces weren’t needed, but there were several ways to make the parking more efficient. It recommended the campus update its signage on parking spaces to make sure they convey who is allowed to park where, offer

accessible routes to parking for staff and visitors, explore potential alternative transportation options like cycling and to assess future growth needs and allocation priorities between visitors, staff and fleet.

Advocates to keep Worrell Park as-is argued it’s one of the few pieces of nature downtown, and that its placement on a lava flow with natural vegetation is a unique natural amenity that couldn’t be replaced if developed for parking.

“It's really a very unique, special part of Bend and once you start disturbing it, it would be gone forever,” Commissioner Patti Adair said. “I was really happy. Parking is parking and there's a lot of different places where we can park and figure out better spots to park.”

Commissioners brainstormed what additional parking would look like in the future. Though it found enough space now, future growth will likely increase the need for more spots. Adair asked staff to look into potentially pairing a new parking project with workforce housing and potentially building condos atop a two-story parking structure.

RSV Surge Continues While Hospitals Struggle

A

surge in respiratory viruses

including RSV, flu and COVID are filling up ICU beds as the health care industry deals with staffing shortages

By Jack Harvel

As many as 5 per 100,000 people have had RSV this season, and for people aged below 18 it reached as high as 18 per 100,000.

Gov. Kate Brown issued an executive order on Dec. 7 to address a surge in respiratory viruses, namely the flu, Respiratory Syncytial Virus and COVID-19. Brown’s order addresses the rise in respiratory viruses in November that allowed hospitals to use volunteer

doctors and nurses and designated emergency health care centers to help with the surge of pediatric RSV cases. The newer executive order gives more flexibility to state agencies to assist health care providers.

“Our health care workers our

nurses, doctors, and hospital staff are being pushed to their limits by this year’s combination of flu, RSV and COVID-19 hospitalizations,” Brown said in a press release. “As they do everything they can to keep Oregonians healthy and safe, we must all do our part to help them. Our health care workers are working around the clock to protect the people most vulnerable to severe respiratory illnesses including our young children and seniors.”

The RSV season started in October this year, months before it typically does. The virus is particularly tough on children, sending about 60,000 to the hospital every year. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates only 1-2% of pediatric RSV cases lead to hospitalizations, and adults usually only suffer from mild cold-like symptoms. Only three hospitals in the state have pediatric intensive care units: Oregon Health and Science University’s Doernbecher Children’s Hospital, Randall Children’s Hospital at Legacy Emanuel and Providence St. Vincent’s Hospital. The Oregon Federation of Nurses and Health

Professionals criticized Brown’s executive order, saying it allows hospitals to ration care with a less than optimal staff without addressing the worker shortage in health care professions.

“The best way to handle a spike in infectious diseases is to ensure that we attract and maintain qualified staff on a permanent basis, and any effort to solve this current situation without increasing staffing levels is doomed from the start,” Kaiser Permanente RN Bargaining Chair Joshua Holt said in a press release. “What we need are solutions that increase our staffing levels so we can more sufficiently care for the community who needs us.”

Latest data show about 2.5 cases of RSV per 100,000 people at the beginning of December, down from a peak of five per 100,000 in mid-November. The last time cases exceeded two per 100,000 was in January of 2020. The lack of exposure to RSV over the past two years of COVID-caused health measures may be why children are more susceptible to the virus and why cases this year are more severe, experts say.

Worrell Park in downtown Bend won’t be changed after people raised concerns that the redevelopment of the park would cost Bend a beloved natural space in downtown.

Jack Harvel

Photo courtesy of the CDC

People’s Rights Takes Over Deschutes GOP

A controversial organization led by Ammon Bundy won most of the leadership positions in the Deschutes County Republican Party

By Jack Harvel

People’s Rights formed in April 2020 at a warehouse in Emmett, Idaho, belonging to Ammon Bundy, a rightwing activist who led the occupation of the Malheur Wildlife Refuge in 2016 and a standoff at his father’s ranch in Nevada. The first meeting drew a crowd of about 70 people. Now, People’s Rights is active in at least 16 states and has attracted thousands of members. In Deschutes County the local People’s Rights Branch won institutional power in the county’s Republican Party, winning the positions of chair, vice chair, secretary and treasurer at the party’s reorganizational meeting on Nov. 21.

People’s Rights Oregon Fifth District, also known as PROR5, encompasses Deschutes, Jefferson, Crook and Wheeler Counties. Though the group is animated by resistance to what it views as overreach of public health measures during the COVID-19 pandemic, PROR5 wrestled with what the group’s purpose would ultimately be.

“When this group originally formed, we struggled to find a purpose other than a place to vent our ideologies and frustrations,” PROR5’s first blog post in October 2020 explained. “We spent weeks talking and discussing the abuses we faced, the issues looming, the why and the how it all occurred, all while not finding much of a solution to our current state of emergency. About the 4th meeting in, we decided to do something different. We talked about what each person thought was important to do and

found that most were on the same page. Unity and security became the focus. UNITE TO DEFEND.”

Groups with distinct focuses were formed. A communications group promotes PR’s message. A constitutional studies group taught an originalist interpretation of the Constitution. A “First Responders” group trains in firearms and emergency preparedness. Prepper and food network groups attempt to establish alternative outlets to buy and preserve food. A “Mask Force” and “Medical Freedom” group advocates against mandatory mask use and COVID vaccinations. A “Great State of East Oregon” explores creating a new state out of eastern Oregon.

PROR5 claims to have over 4,000 members, 500 of which follow along and 150 that are actively engaged at PR meetings, events and on its Slack channels. Weekly updates on the PROR5 blog keep members up to date on the current PR efforts and events. Some of the updates are attributed to BJ Soper, the statewide “assistant” for the state. Soper is the founder of the Pacific Patriot Network and the Central Oregon Constitutional Guard. He’s been present at armed confrontations with the government, including the takeover of the Malheur Wildlife Refuge. Soper declined to speak with the Source Weekly for this story.

The Institute for Research and Education on Human Rights characterized PR as a militia based on the militant actions of Bundy, support for the Jan. 6 riots and

the tactical training some PR groups partake in. Scott Stuart, the newly elected DCRP chair who’s also an active PR member, denied that the group is a militia.

“We believe in the Second Amendment, and we do have a group of people that train and promote firearm safety and those kinds of things,” Stuart said. “But we’re not a militia.”

Though he doesn’t hold an official title in PR, Stuart frequently leads group conversations at PROR5 meetings, hosting a series of lectures on “maskology” and “vaxology.” Stuart was elected chair of the party at the Deschutes County Republican Party’s reorganizational meeting in November. Over the past two years Stuart has become a recognizable figure in Central Oregon, running a failed bid to replace Deschutes County Commissioner Tony DeBone, leading protests against vaccine mandates at the Redmond High School and appearing in a Redmond Fourth of July Parade dressed as a Confederate soldier.

“The Republican Party has not had the unification in the state of Oregon that I see could happen, and I feel my leadership skills will help bring that unity,” Stuart said.

Stuart is replacing former Deschutes County Commissioner Phil Henderson, who did not seek reelection, and ran against longtime DCRP communications coordinator Mark Knowles. PROR5’s weekly update on Nov. 28 hinted that the success of PR created a “stir,” but current and former Republican officials downplayed any division in the party.

“Some of the people that lost were disappointed with that, and didn't stay around for further elections,” Henderson told the Source. “I didn't think it really was a split.”

Henderson added that the Republican Party saw a lot of growth over the past year. He estimated over 200 precinct committee people attended the DCRP reorganizational meeting, which is much higher than years past. The most recent general election is also a bright spot for Henderson, who pointed out that gubernatorial candidate Christine Drazan won more votes than her opponents in Deschutes County, and that Deschutes County Commissioners Tony Debone and Patti Adair won their elections despite there being 3,000 more registered Democrats than Republicans in the county.

Stuart said his strategy may differ from prior DCRP leadership, but his goal will largely be the same: to increase the number of registered Republicans, to

find and promote electable candidates and to help grow the Central Committee by bringing in more precinct committee people. The DCRP and PR both asked for people to become involved in the local parties as precinct committee persons — the former hosting a video explaining the strategy on Steve Bannon’s War Room podcast. PROR5 worked as early as July 2021 to add precinct committee people to the DCRP. They claim to have about 160 in the party out of a total 251 spots.

The precinct strategy is paired with an intense focus on local races and local issues. Weekly updates often point to open seats on school boards, soil districts and even cemetery boards. There’s a frequent call to action to speak at public meetings to advocate for their positions and against political rivals — namely Democrats, “leftists” and officials that followed statewide COVID mandates. The group’s blog post on Dec. 12 calls on members to call into the Redmond School Board meeting to suggest they oust Superintendent Charan Cline.

“Cline was disobedient to the wishes of the board throughout the COVID nightmare, siding with the State on most of the issues and mandates,” the post says. “He needs to go.”

Though PROR5 is successful in party politics, that hasn’t extended to electoral politics. PROR5 candidate Julia Brown lost a three-way race for Bend City Council. Branegan Dixon also lost his bid for Redmond City Council. Bundy, the movement’s founder, got 17% of the vote in the Idaho gubernatorial race as an Independent, losing to incumbent Gov. Brad Little.

Scott Stuart is the new chair of the Deschutes County Republican Party and an active People’s Rights member, hosting lectures on masking and vaccines for the group.

Ammon Bundy started People’s Rights in 2020 after being disillusioned with COVID lockdown policies. The activist is notorious for two armed standoffs with federal agents.

Photo courtesy of Gage Skidmore via Flickr

Photo courtesy of Scott Stuart/Facebook

Some of our favorite Central Oregonians share their holiday memories and what's on their wish lists this year

Occupation: Artist, Musician, Founder of Hearts Unknown Education.

Favorite local places to shop: Layor Art + Supply for art supplies, Lark Mountain Modern for inspiration, Old Boy Vintage for clothing.

What’s on his wish list: “To have a space for my nonprofit to operate five days a week for kids.”

What he's wearing: Corduroy jacket and overalls from Old Boy Vintage.

Where he goes for a white elephant/gag gift: Dollar Tree.

What he's buying for loved ones: “My daughter is getting married. I really want to buy her a wedding dress.”

Gift he always wanted but never got: “I wanted my dad’s attention. As far as gifts, my dad bought me mini-bikes, horses, every toy. I had a pinball machine in my house when I was a kid. But they were more like guilt gifts because he was never around. The gift that I really wanted was time with my Dad.”

Occupation: Artist.

Favorite local places to shop: “My favorite is The Workhouse because I feel like they do such a good job of curating amazing locally made goods. They've been a huge support to me and they support so many artists.”

What she’s wearing: Jumpsuit from Vanilla Urban Threads, Red Wing boots from OutsideIn, Earrings from Navone Jewelry, Necklace from Mitch Jewelry, Jacket from thrift store in Silver Lake.

Something she’s buying for someone else this year: “My family… we do one gift like white elephant style and then we pick different organizations just to donate to. The most recent one was Central Oregon LandWatch.” Plus, paint-your-own puzzles from The Workhouse.

Where she goes for a white elephant/gag gift: Thrifting!

Best gift she ever received: “Two custom cutting boards made by my husband with some beautiful pieces of wood.”

Non-material gift suggestion: Bodywork! “We have so many incredible body workers in town. I would love to give or receive massage or acupuncture.”

Get a similar look:

Wolverine Floorhand steel toe work boot from Boot Barn, $105

Get a similar look:

Red Wing women’s boots at Vanilla Urban Threads, Varying prices. shopvanilla.com

Santa's Recommended Items for Sheila:

“I imagine a Sheila often works in a beautiful studio with a ton of great natural light. I also imagine she must spend a significant amount of time in that space, so I would gift her a giant cactus or some other light-loving plant from one of the many plant shops in town. For cacti, I recommend Desert Rose Cactus Lounge!” Prices vary. desertrosebend.com

-Ashley

Santa's Recommended Items for Joel:

“Since Joel is a musician, amongst many other things, I think a great overnight travel bag would make a perfect gift for those quick shows out of town! Alicia of Howl Intentional Goods handmakes these gorgeous and sturdy leather duffle bags with Pendleton fabric accents. These bags last a lifetime and only continue to grow more beautiful with years of wear and love.” Haflinger Creek Duffle, between $350 - $450. howlgoods.com

- Ashley

Occupation: Musician, Photographer, Luthier, Woodworker, Print Maker.

Favorite local places to shop: Smith Rock Records, Dudley’s Bookshop Cafe, The Workhouse.

What he’s wearing: Scarf from Lost Season Supply, jacket from thrift store in Silver Lake, Oregon, Wolverine boots from thrift store in Crater Lake.

Something he’s buying for someone else this year: “A certain record that is really meaningful to my wife and me.”

Where he goes for a white elephant/gag gift: REgroup thrift store.

Best gift he ever received: “To be able to share Christmas with my entire family one last time before my mom passed away—my parents being divorced, coming together was a unique experience.”

Gift he always wanted but never got: A dog.

Non-material item he’s giving this year: “I would love to gift someone the experience of the hot springs— Belknap or Breitenbush or Summer Lake Hot Springs.”

Occupation:

Favorite local places to shop: Thrift stores!

What’s on his wish list: Art, paintings.

What he’s wearing: Gloves from Pretty Pussycat, shirt from thrift store, hat and pants from friends who make stuff.

Something he’s buying for someone else this year: “I came up with this idea with my best friend Taniah Waringa— she’s actually the one that dresses me for my shows, and she makes most of my clothes, too, and she’s very talented. She does my hair, too. We are planning to get together to go thrift store shopping and to make some cool shirts for our friends.”

Where he goes for a white elephant/gag gift: Sex toys from Pretty Pussycat.

Best gift he ever received: “I think it was eight. I got my first violin, and that's when I got involved more into music.”

Gift he always wanted but never got: A motorcycle.

Non-material item he’s giving this year: A massage gift certificate.

Occupation: Owner, Bend Dance; Real Estate Agent.

Favorite local places to shop: Most of the downtown Bend shops—Revolvr for men’s clothes, Hot Box Betty for women’s clothes, Bellatazza Coffee for drinks and the great company, Patagonia, for outdoor wear, Paper Jazz for fun stuff for other people.

What she’s wearing: Leather cuff & necklace by Damon Vracin from Nomad Leather; Scarf from Hot Box Betty.

What’s on her wish list: New and unique brands of mezcal and tequila.

Something she’s buying for someone else this year: Jewelry from local makers.

Where she goes for a white elephant/gag gift: Pretty Pussycat.

Best gift she ever received: American Heritage Dictionary of the English Language “...with etymologies, Indo-European roots, and fun syntax tidbits,” and a Yamaha YZ 80 dirtbike when she was 8.

Non-material item she’s giving this year: “I’d like to give people the ability to get over their fears,” so that they can try new things, like dance!

Vocalist/Musician, the Rumpeppers band.

Support Quality Care For

Occupation: Mom's BFF.

Favorite local places to shop: Bendy Dog, Bend Pet Express.

What she’s wearing: Ruffwear collar with Metalheads dog tag.

Where she goes for a white elephant/gag gift: Pretty Pussycat.

Best gift she ever received: Glow in the dark football.

Gift she always wanted but never got: The food the humans eat.

Non-material item she’s giving this year: Puppy love for mom, grandma and brother Solo.

Santa's Recommended Items for Sadie:

Ruffwear Climate Changer pullover jacket from Bendy Dog, $60 bendydog.com

Get a similar look:

Appaman Hooded Vest – $84, Hopscotch Kids

Pistil Truckers Cap - $38 - Powder House Ski and Snowboard

Vans Sk8-Mid Checkerboard Skate Shoe - Little Kid - $48 – Vanilla Urban Threads

Get a similar look:

Metalheads dog tags, custom made for your pet $19-40 etsy.com/shop/ metalheadsboutique

Occupation: Elementary School Student.

What’s on his wish list: A new Drone.

What he’s wearing: Deux Par Deux - Brown/Black Plaid Shirt - $50 Hopscotch Kids, Appaman Hooded Vest - $84 Hopscotch Kids, Pistil Truckers Cap - $38 Powder House Ski and Snowboard.

Idea for a white elephant/gag gift: Minion Fart Gun.

Best gift he ever received: Electric dirtbike.

Gift he always wanted but never got: A real bearded dragon.

Santa's Recommended Items for Brady:

Lego Technic Sets - Leapin Lizards Toy Co. Cost varies by set.

SOURCE PICKS

THURSDAY

WORN WEAR HAPPY HOUR

QUICK FIXES AND MOUNTAIN MADNESS

12/15

Celebrating the Dirksen Derby, Patagonia is hosting a happy hour for the community. Have a tear in your well-loved Patagonia jacket? Bring it to the happy hour for a quick fix by Worn Wear and Gear Fix repair masters. It’s the perfect time to peek at the new outdoor gear for holiday gifts! Thu., Dec. 15, 6:308:30pm. Patagonia Bend, 1000 Wall St. Suite 140, Bend. Free.

THURSDAY 12/15

FRIDAY 12/16

OUT ON THE RUNWAY: QUEER ART & FASHION SHOW

HAPPY HOLI-GAYS!

Support local queer talent this weekend and get dressed up for this fashion event benefitting Toys For Tots. Bring a toy to be entered to win a $200 gift card. Each toy is one entry in the raffle. The night will start with an art show, followed by a runway show. Fri., Dec. 16, 6:30pm-1:30am. Midtown Ballroom, 51 Northwest Greenwood Ave., Bend. $10-$30.

FRIDAY 12/16

WINTER SOLSTICE DANCE PARTY

CELEBRATING THE COLD Party with a brew in your hand! Unreal Gods hosts a high-energy party at Silver Moon to celebrate the longest night of the year. This group is known for dance parties and a stellar music lineup. Fri., Dec. 16, 7pm-Midnight. Silver Moon Brewing, 24 NW Greenwood Ave., Bend. $10.

SATURDAY 12/17

RESELLERS ROW

VINTAGE FASHION FOR CHRISTMAS

This reselling event features clothes across generations. Shop for fashion treasures and select pieces that spark joy when you’re holiday shopping this weekend. Grab a day drink while you support these local vendors and vintage seekers! Sat., Dec. 17, 10am-3pm. Open Space Event Studios, 220 NE Lafayette Ave, Bend. Free.

MONDAY 12 /19

JAKE SHIMABUKURO: CHRISTMAS IN HAWAI'I

AMBASSADOR OF ALOHA

Playing the ukulele and performing with incredible holiday spirit, Jake Shimabukuro will take the Tower stage for an unforgettable Christmas concert. Pulling from iconic songs from iconic genres, Shimabukuro’s holiday concert will take listeners to a place of loving memory. Thu., Dec. 15, 7:30pm. Tower Theatre, 835 NW Wall St., Bend. $37 - $57 (plus $3 historic preservation fee).

FRIDAY 12/16

CENTRAL OREGON WINTER BEER FEST

BUNDLE UP WITH A BREW

Taste local beers, meet brewers and talk with fellow beer lovers! This fundraiser event is for the Oregon Brewers Guild, whose mission is to promote and protect Oregon craft beer through advocacy, education and events. Sat., Dec. 17, 2-9pm. GoodLife Brewing, 70 SW Century Drive, Suite 100-464, Bend. Free admission, $25/drink package.

SATURDAY

CYRUS NABIPOOR QUINTET

SMOOTH JAZZ IN THE SPEAKEASY

This Portland-based jazz trumpeter is bringing all the jazzy vibes to Bend. Cyrus Nabipoor’s style combines groovy beats with classic trumpet melodies to give pop life to traditional jazz music. Grab a drink, sit back and sway to the music! Fri., Dec. 16, 6:30-8:30pm. Mood Indigo Club - Speakeasy, 61400 S Hwy 97, Bend. $29.

PIANO CONCERT IN THE MEISSNER LODGE

SKI WHILE LISTENING TO A LIVE CONCERT

12/17

CHRISTMAS MOVIE TRIVIA NIGHT

YOU THINK YOU KNOW THE MOST?

If you watch holiday movies year-round, then this trivia night is for you! From “It’s A Wonderful Life” to “Elf,” all the movies are on the table. Want to test your Christmas movie knowledge? Grab a few friends and a beer and get out there! Mon., Dec. 19, 6-9pm. Bevel Craft Brewing, 911 SE Armour St., Bend. Free.

WEDNESDAY 12 /21

You heard it right! Cross-country ski or snowshoe the candle-lit trail while listening to a live piano concert through your headphones. The course will stay in range for the headphones to pick up classical, film, Spanish and improvised music. Sip on a hot bevvy while you’re there! Sat., Dec. 17, 5-6pm & 7-8pm. Virginia Meissner SnoPark, Century Dr., Bend. Free, registration required.

SOLSTICE BLUEGRASS THROWDOWN W/ SKILLETHEAD & THE PINE HEARTS

STOMP YOUR FEET AND BLAST THE BLUEGRASS

The longest nights of the year call for long nights of bluegrass! Skillethead features fiddle tunes and layered harmonies in its traditional bluegrass sound. The Pine Hearts are from the PNW and make music that experiments with folk and is inspired by nature. Wed., Dec. 21, 7-10pm. The Belfry, 302 E Main Ave., Bend. $15.

Jake Shimabukuro Facebook

Goodlife (Beer Fest)

Bend Ticket (Bluegrass Throwdown)

Pexels(ResellersRow)

Cyrus Nabipoor Facebook

Does

Bend, Oregon, Have a DJ “Scene”?

Bike wheels aren’t the only thing spinnin’

By Doone Lupine Williams

Honestly, I didn’t know the answer to this question prior to writing this article. But it’s a question I’ve had and one I’ve wanted to explore within a community of artists and a genre of music I’ve barely had any encounters with since moving back to Bend during the pandemic. My main connections to what a DJ or electronic music “scene” looks, sounds and feels like are definitely based off my experiences living in Portland: shows by Believe You Me PDX, Sundays at White Owl Social Club and some unforgettable nights at the Holocene.

Just a lil’ PSA for you who are like, “Who is this chick and why does she have a right to critique a scene she hasn’t experienced here?”… Fair! I would say my ideal DJ scene would be to teleport to Berlin in the early ‘90s or be a fly on the wall at some of Moby’s first gigs in NYC… But the point is, a lot of us have different terms with what a “scene” might be within a music community — or what Electronic Dance Music sounds like. Some of us think a scene might be something so deep underground you’re lucky if you get to experience it (I got to experience this in Florence, Italy, of all places). Others might view it as a movement around a style of progressive music and people that is simply just happening, pushing the music forward. We also might not even know that there was a scene until it’s gone.

But here, now, today, on Earth, post-pandemic, approaching the year 2023, I feel something happening here in our little (not so little anymore) Bend, Oregon, — especially for us feelers, cravers and lovers of music. If you’re wanting that deep bass, nsst-nsst, dance music, human connection and experience — my answer is, YES — that within itself is here. Some of it’s happening downtown and some out in the woods! I reached out to a handful of our local DJs and event production companies to help me answer this question.

If you want to dance your a** off, you got to try and

catch DJs like Mitchell Virkelyst (MiTCH PLEASE on Soundcloud), Giancarlo Gatto ( DJ GQ/ gots2be on Soundcloud) or Raul Segoviano (GITANØS on Soundcloud). Head to spots like The Capitol, Midtown/Domino Room, Silver Moon Brewing — I’ve heard even Avid Cider throws some bangers. But if your vibe is to just kick it and grab a glass of wine/catch someone casually spinnin’ you should catch a set by Brian Sprague (Briantology on Instagram) and head to venues like Velvet and Dogwood. You can even catch some OG vinyl spinnin’ at Bar Fiori with DJs like Adam Howell and Generic Listening (@adamphowel and @genericlistening on Instagram).

Some go for the old school soul/‘80s electro/funk, some go hip-hop, some go full-fledge techno and house music. Jeshua Marshall, talent buyer/booker and event coordinator for Silver Moon Brewing, stated, “The EDM and hip-hop shows we have been booking have been bringing hundreds of people out. Bend is a microcosm. I think there is a need for dance music and alternate styles of EDM and hip-hop here.”

Local DJ Brian Hebert, Ground$core on Soundcloud, mentioned, “I've been digging Open Space Event Studios! We're so lucky to have a space like that where a promoter can create whatever vibe they want.” Hebert also has a residency at Dogwood every fourth Saturday and DJs at Mt. Bachelor frequently.

And that isn’t the only outdoor space that came up. Jen Voth (Jenesis on Souncloud) — the only female DJ I found in my research (hell, yeah) — said, “I have helped put together several renegade raves out in the woods. Those occasions are always special. There is nothing quite like the juxtaposition of electronic music in nature. Renegades are a way of bringing people together because it is truly an environment for liberated human connection. Stepping out of the societal public space to come together in nature sets the stage for finding deeper meaning within community.”

Giancarlo Gatto stated, “There are definitely shows and people supporting music that is not mainstream dance music. Lots of grass roots productions.” Gatto

and I also chatted about how Bend is getting recognized for its electronic music scene. Can we get a moment of silence for Hayden Homes Ampitheater, please? It’s pretty progressive for Bend’s largest stage to bring names like Flume, ODESZA and RÜFÜS DU SOL.

“For some reason electronic dance music is not embraced in the same way rock or country is,” Gatto said. “It was funny that the only issue last summer with all the shows at the amphitheater was a noise complaint article after RÜFÜS DU SOL. Bass seems to annoy people more than guitars.”

Many local production groups are actively pushing this along: Global Based, Kismet Productions, SoMuchHouse, 1988 Entertainment and Mobile Dance Party, to name a few. Not only are some of these groups and venues heavily pushing the evolution of the music, they are simultaneously pushing the evolution of culture and diversity. When I asked the up-and-coming Latino DJ, Raul Segoviano (DJ GITANØS), about where he feels the most welcome, he declared, “I really enjoy Seven. Seven always has Latino music and DJs in their rotation constantly. Inclusivity in dance music and nightlife is very important and I hope to help fill that void as much as I can considering I’m one of the few minority DJs in Central Oregon.”

DJ Sets + EDM Events Coming Up:

Domino Room | Wed., Dec. 14— The Jingle Ball (Hosted by Mobile Dance Party)

Silver Moon Brewing | Fri., Dec 16 — Winter Solstice Dance Party w/ UNREAL GODS

Avid Cider Co. | Sat., Dec. 17 — DANCE + DONATE (featuring DJ GITANØS)

Avid Cider Co. | Sat., Dec. 31 -- NYE Party w/ So Much House | 9PM | Free Entry

“GITANØS,” local Latino DJ, Raul Segoviano at work/play.

MITCH PLEASE (Mitchell Virkelyst) spins some audio magic.

Photo courtesy of Sam Noble

Photo courtesy of GITANØS

14 Wednesday

AVID Cider Co. Taproom Bingo with a Brit Join with the favorite bloke Michael as MC, and win prizes, swag, gift cards and a once-a-month cash jackpot. Discounted beverages, $3 first card, $2 second card and each card after that just $1! 6:30-8:30pm.

Cabin 22 Trivia Wednesdays It’s not your average quiz night. Team up to win gift cards. It’s fun and free to play, with Locals’ Day featuring Crater Lake and local craft beer specials. Get here this week! 6:30-8:30pm. Free.

Craft Kitchen and Brewery Comedy Open Mic Sign-up 7:30pm. Starts at 8pm. Free to watch. Free to perform. If you’ve ever wanted to try stand-up comedy, this is where you start! 8-10pm. Free.

Crosscut Warming Hut No 5 Kenny Hadden Relax with a pint and enjoy great local music every Wed. from 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 at 6:30pm. Free to play. Win prizes. Teams up to 6. Free.

The Domino Room The Jingle Ball DJs are taking over the Domino Room and turning into a winter EDM wonderland. Featuring an all-star lineup of local DJ heros, you’ll jingle all balls into the night with plenty of wobble, wubbs and wonky beats. 7pm-Midnight. $10.

Hub City 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 Hub City every Wednesday and Thursday night and sing your heart out! 8pm-Midnight. Free.

JC’s Bar & Grill Trivia Nite with Trivia Girl Compete with your peers and test your knowledge of current events, music and other random categories while enjoying 75 cent wings! Also, JC’s trivia separates themselves from the rest with a physical challenge! 7-9:30pm. 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, which ever comes first. 21+. 6:30pm. Free.

McMenamins Old St. Francis School

Cuchulain Cuchulain is a low-voiced songwriter with a wry wit. Cuchulain’s deep baritone and clever lyrics have drawn comparisons to Randy Newman, Leonard Cohen and Johnny Cash. From rooms as big as the Kennedy Center or as small as a friend’s living room, Cuchulain’s lyrics have brought laughs and tears to audiences across the U.S. 6-9pm. Free.

Seven Nightclub & Restaurant The CO Show The CO Show is a free comedy showcase! Doors open at 7pm, show starts at 8pm! Central Oregon Comedy Scene and Karaokaine productions have teamed up to bring this show to you! It’s co-hosted with multiple hosts, co-produced for Central Oregon! 8pm. Free.

Silver Moon Brewing Song & Story with Pete Kartsounes Pete is an award-winning flat picker singer-songwriter and cutting-edge musician’s musician. No stranger to life out on the road, Pete has spent over two decades bringing his voice and guitar to stages all over the world. Come experience one of Bend’s finest talents! 6-8pm. Free.

Silver Moon Brewing Strawberry Girls, The Color 8, Himiko Cloud & Rosett Strawberry Girls is an instrumental trio from Salinas, CA, featuring Zachary Garren (Ex-Dance Gavin Dance) on guitar, Ben Rosett on drums and Ian Jennings on bass. 6:30-10pm. $18.

Northside Bar & Grill Accoustic Open Mic w/ Derek Michael Marc Head down to the Northside Bar and Grill Wednesdays to catch local artists perform live. 7-9pm. Free.

15 Thursday

Austin Mercantile Ghost of Brian Craig Central Oregon singer-songwriter and folk rock artist performing a niche form of acoustic guitar live-looping, harmonica with his colorful original acoustic rock songs and rich storytelling. 5-8pm. Free.

The Belfry Holiday Show with Hanneke Cassel & Friends The joyful sound of the fiddle will ring in the holidays with a special show at The Belfry presented by the Sisters Folk Festival. Scottish-American fiddler Hanneke Cassel will be accompanied by musicians Ryan and Brooke McKasson, Liddy Hoover, Tim Downing and Christopher Lewis for an exuberant display of celebration. 7-9pm. $20.

Bridge 99 Brewery Trivia Thursdays Trivia Thursdays with UKB Trivia at Bridge 99. UKB’s live trivia game show is like no other. Team up to compete for gift card prizes! It’s free to play. Brews, ciders, mixed drinks, pizzas and food truck options. Indoor and outdoor seating. 6-8pm. Free.

The Domino Room Eric Rachmany with Kyle Ahern, Geoff Weers & Cydeways Born and raised in San Francisco, Eric Rachmany has spent his life emulating the sounds of the West Coast. He is the lead singer, songwriter and guitarist of the Grammy-nominated reggae-inspired band Rebelution, as well as the vocalist for the electronic-reggae duo Unified Highway. 8pm. $29.50-$124.50.

Hub City 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 Hub City every Wednesday and Thursday night and sing your heart out! 8pm-Midnight. Free.

Big E’s Sports Bar Big E’s Open Mic Open mic from 6-9pm. Sign-ups at 5:30pm. Three song/15-minute limit. Minors allowed. Singles/ duos/trios. No drum sets. Great food and beverage from Big E’s Sportsbar menu. Original music or covers. A warm and friendly environment to share those precious creative moments. 6-9pm. Free.

Porter Brewing Co. Live Music with The Ballybogs Grab a pint, sit back, relax and enjoy live music by an amazing group of artists that brings the best Irish Trad music in Central Oregon! Every Thursday at Porter! 6-8pm. Free.

River’s Place Ten Spiders Ten Spiders is a regional folk rock band with a jammy edge based out of Portland, Oregon. Front person Rossi radiates an indisputable passion, crooning the sweetest high notes to belting it, blues-style. 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.

The Suttle Lodge & Boathouse

Whychus Fireside Show Whychus is Scott Crabtree, Leif Anderson and Aubrey Leigh, three strangers-made bandmates who found each other in the wondrous woodwork of Sisters. They want to lift your folk rock spirts and spark your nostalgic nerve playing their original songs and their favorite classics. Whychus believes music brings people together and makes everything better. They play because they love it and because it’s pure fun! 6-8pm. $10.

Northside Bar & Grill Tiger Lynn Upbeat classic dance songs from the 70s through today! 7-9pm. Free.

Tower Theatre Jake Shimabukuro: Christmas in Hawai’i The ambassador of aloha will bring joy to the world by delivering a special gift for all with the debut of his highly anticipated holiday show. Jake’s genuine love for people, the spirit of holidays and his beloved home of Hawaii are at the forefront of this show. 7:30pm. $37$57 (plus $3 historic preservation fee).

16 Friday

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.

High Desert Music Hall Bad Santa Party Are you ready to be naughty? Have you been bad? Is your job not having a X-Mas party? Come get down with the best DJs in Central Oregon playing a mix of EDM. Costumes encouraged. 8pm-1am. $5 plus can of food.

Hub City Bar & Grill DJ/Karaoke Nights Dj dance music intermingled with karaoke! 8pm. Free. M&J Tavern Something Dirty Local musicians band together for an alternative rock style that is Something Dirty! 9pm. Free.

Midtown Ballroom/Domino Room/Annex OUT On The Runway - Queer Art & Fashion Show : 2022 Winter Collection Queer! Art! Fashion! Giving back! After party! Wrap that all up and you have the holi-gays! Enjoy and support local talent, while giving back to the community! Bring a new, unwrapped toy for the toy drive and be entered to win a $200 gift card! Each toy is one entry. Get tickets on eventbrite.com. 6:30pm-1:30am. $10-$30.

Mood Indigo Club - Speakeasy

Cyrus Nabipoor Quintet Jazz at the Speakeasy with Cyrus Napipoor. Organizing sounds and telling stories, Portland-based Cyrus Nabipoor is perched on the cutting edge of jazz as popular music. His unmistakable voice on the trumpet rings with honesty, warmth and lyricism. 6:30pm. $29.

Silver Moon Brewing Winter Solstice Dance Party Unreal Gods bring the dance party to Silver Moon Brewing once again! 7pm-Midnight. $10.

Tower Theatre Broadway Rocks Cancer Don’t miss Summit Health Cares’ Broadway Rocks Cancer on Dec. 16 at the Tower Theatre in Bend! Celebrate the holidays with a star-studded group of Broadway actors while raising needed money for the “Patient in Need” fund, providing grants to help patients and their families fighting cancer with critical, non-medical expenses, reducing anxiety and allowing them to focus on what’s most important – getting healthy. 7pm. $56.50 (plus $3 historical preservation fee).

Curtis Salgado is all about the bluesy bangers — songs that are smooth and groovy and fun. Since the 1960s, Salgado has released nine albums. Jam with Salgado at The Belfry at 7pm on Saturday, Dec. 17.

Photo courtesy of Alligator Records (Curtis Salgado)

Old Revival Don’t miss this rock 'n' roll local concert at the Volcanic. 7pm. $15.

Walt Reilly’s Ghost of Brian Craig Central Oregon singer-songwriter and folk rock artist performing a niche form of acoustic guitar live-looping, harmonica and pedal steel guitar with his colorful original acoustic rock songs and rich storytelling. 7-9pm. Free.

The Yard @ Bunk + Brew Light The Night w/ Nick Crockett Bunk+Brew becomes a winter wonderland on Friday. Join for some live music and fun! Nick Crockett will play some tunes in the dark, and then, the community will light the night with over 400 feet of Christmas lights that will transform the beer garden! Tis the season. Lights on at 7pm! 6:30-9pm. Free.

17 Saturday

AVID Cider Co. Taproom Holiday Inn Dance Party to Benefit the Bethlehem Inn Donate and dance! House music all night long to benefit the Bethlehem Inn, with local DJs Schaab, Teez(Us) and Gitanos. Each donated item gets you a raffle ticket. Prizes include lift tickets from HooDoo and swag from Avid Cider Co.! See the full list of items needed at bethleheminn.org/holiday-giving. 8pm. Free.

The Belfry Curtis Salgado Award-winning vocalist, instrumentalist and songwriter Curtis Salgado, the man NPR calls “an icon” with “a huge voice,” will perform with his band at The Belfry in Sisters. 7-9pm. $30.

Craft Kitchen and Brewery Comedy

at Craft: The Away Team Road comics based out of Bend are getting together to bring you the best comedy Bend has to offer. Come watch as these pros give you the best of their best as they prepare to another year of visit strange new worlds and going where other Bend comics have never gone before. 8-10pm. $10.

Crater Lake Spirits Downtown Tasting Room Naughty List Only: A Formal Event by Bend Burlesque It’s a formal holiday party at Bend Burlesque’s favorite distillery’s tasting room! They will have a night packed with sexy songs, crooning babes and some jaw dropping acts for the Christmas season! Get into the holiday spirit with a naughty little party. Limited tickets available due to capacity. 8-11pm. $20.

Crux Fermentation Project Ghost of Brian Craig Central Oregon singer-songwriter and folk rock artist performing a niche form of acoustic guitar live-looping, harmonica and pedal steel guitar with his colorful original acoustic rock songs and rich storytelling. 5pm. Free.

The Domino Room Fractal to Benefit Music Education 4 Peaks Presents a benefit concert for The Mockingbird Foundation featuring organic jamtronica band Fractal. This event is the perfect way to get ready for the holiday season while making a difference for young people. 8pm-Midnight. $10.

Faith, Hope and Charity Vineyards Heller Highwater Trio Heller Highwater Trio will rock the vineyard with outstanding vocals, harmonies and guitar playing. Come on out and enjoy wine and song. 5-8pm. $15.

Flights Wine Bar Live Music at Flights Come grab a great glass of wine, have an incredible dinner and enjoy live music every Saturday at Flights Wine Bar. 6-8pm. Free.

High Desert Music Hall Drag Queen Bingo Benefit Night Celebrate the Central Oregon community with a holiday drag queen bingo night to benefit Every Child Central Oregon! All are welcome! Every Child Central Oregon mobilizes community to uplift children and families impacted by foster care in Oregon. 7-10pm. $40-$60.

Hub City Bar & Grill DJ/Karaoke Nights Dj dance music intermingled with karaoke! 8pm. Free.

M&J Tavern The KronkMen “Christmas Edition” Local favorites KronkMen bring the max volume with “It’s Chaos” and newcomer noise “Dead Nettle” to its Christmas symphony that is sure to leave your brain leaking from your ear holes! Grab a free pair of ear plugs to keep that fluid to yer-self. 9pm. Free.

The Outfitter Bar at Seventh Mountain Resort Pete Kartsounes Join in the Speakeasy for free live music with Pete Kartsounes. Pete is an award-winning flat picker singer-songwriter and cutting-edge musician’s musician. No stranger to life out on the road, Pete has spent over two decades bringing his voice/guitar to the world. 4-7pm. Free.

River’s Place Lisa Dae Quintet: Live Holiday Jazz Come and enjoy the Lisa Dae quintet at the annual live holiday jazz show at River’s Place! 6-8pm. Free.

Silver Moon Brewing Damage On Overdose, Mazartoh, Superball & More Central Oregon legendary metal band “Damage On Overdoes” brings the heavy fury to Silver Moon Brewing stage! Also performing Mazaroth and more. 7-11pm.

Silver Moon Brewing Superball (Outside Stage) Superball delivers classic rock favorites with brilliant musianship and energy. 8-10pm. $10.

Tower Theatre Patrick Lamb’s Charlie Brown Christmas Patrick Lamb brings a family Christmas to you with the legendary music of Vince Guaraldi. 4pm. $30 - $35 (plus $3 historic preservation fee).

Volcanic Theatre Pub Scott Pemberton O Theory w/ Sonic Benders Rooted in the familiar yet utterly unique, this nimble Power Trio creates its own brand of progressive roots music blending deep jazz, blues, rock/grunge, funk and psychedelia. 8:30-11:30pm. $17/adv, $20/door.

18 Sunday

The Astro Lounge Local Artist Spotlight Sundays This is a chance to listen to Central Oregon’s newest and upcoming local artists. They have earned their spot to perform a two-hour show, changing weekly, every Sunday. Support local top notch talent! 7-9pm. Free.

Flights Wine Bar Trivia at Flights Wine Bar Join Sundays for trivia with King Trivia! Free to play! Get a group together, and come get nerdy! Awesome prizes and as always, delicious food and drinks! 4-6pm. Free.

Hub City Bar & Grill Big Band Open Jam All welcome to sing or play an instrument, just come on in and get on Gordy’s sign-up sheet. 5-8pm. Free.

River’s Place Trivia Sundays at Noon Trivia Sundays at Noon, with UKB Trivia, at River’s Place. This is no ordinary contest, this is a live trivia game show. Bring your bunch and win gift card prizes for top teams! Indoor and outdoor seating available. Great food and drink options available. Noon-2pm. Free.

River’s Place Coyote Willow This exciting artistic partnership joins Tim Coffey’s soulful guitar, Kat Hilst’s powerful cello and the duo’s rich vocal harmonies, creating a unique blend of folk, roots, blues and intricate instrumentals. 5-7pm. Free.

Silver Moon Brewing Not Cho Grandma’s Bingo Not Cho’ Grandma’s Bingo is back at Silver Moon Brewing! The brewery hosts the famous bingo event for good times and a chance to win some cold hard cash! 10am-1pm. Free.

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

Volcanic Theatre Pub The Grouch & Eligh The Grouch & Eligh will rock the stage with a lively performance. 8-11pm. $22.

19 Monday

Bevel Craft Brewing Christmas Movie Trivia Night Bevel is getting into the holiday spirit with a decorated night of Christmas Movie Trivia! Specific movies will be hinted at as the date draw near... Ugly Sweater-themed. Dress to impress and you might win yourself a gift! 6-9pm. Free.

Bridge 99 Brewery Trivia Mondays UKB’s live trivia game show is like no other. Team up to compete for gift card prizes! It’s free to play. Brews, ciders, mixed drinks, pizzas and food truck options. Indoor and outdoor seating. 6-8pm. Free.

Elixir Wine Group Locals Music Night Enjoy live musicians, great wine and small bites. 6-9pm. 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 Comedy Open Mic Comedy open mic every Monday at Silver Moon Brewing in the Green Room. Sign-ups at 6:30pm, show starts at 7pm. Free to watch and free to perform. Presented by Tease Bang Boom Productions. 7-8:30pm. Free.

Worthy Brewing Head Games Trivia Night Eat. Drink. Think. Win! Head Games multi-media trivia is at Worthy Brewing Co. in Bend every Monday at 7pm. Free to play, win prizes. Teams up to 6. 7-9pm. Free.

20 Tuesday

AVID Cider Co. Taproom Trivia Tuesdays! Join every Tuesday at Avid Cider Co. with Last Call Trivia! Gather your friends and stretch your brain to answer questions from broad and varied categories with prizes at the end. 6:30-8:30pm. Free.

Cheba Hut Trivia Tuesday Come play Useless Knowledge Bowl! UKB’s live trivia game show is no ordinary trivia night! Bring your team this week! “2 Wheel Tuesday” and “Service Industry” specials with 25% off on bar tabs, too! 6-8pm. Free.

Midtown Yacht Club Dustin Does Trivia Dustin’s high energy and positive vibes will bring the community together; creating an experience not-done-before in the trivia scene! Five rounds of trivia with extra points going to teams that go “all in” on the playful side of the night! Prizes for first and second place. Every other Tuesday, 7-9pm. Free.

Volcanic Theatre Pub Good Grief and The

Cyrus Nabipoor performs trumpeting concerts with a modern flaire and immense soul. This cutting-edge musician will take the stage at the Mood Indigo Club Speakeasy at 6:30pm on Friday, Dec. 16.

Photo courtesy of Cyrus Nabipoor

The Commons Cafe & Taproom Storytellers Open-Mic StoryTellers open-mic nights are full of music, laughs and community. In the old house Bill Powers of Honey Don’t and several other projects in town, hosts one of the best open mics in town. Sign-ups start at 5pm sharp in the cafe, and spots go quick. 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. 6pm. Free.

Silver Moon Brewing Eric Leadbetter & Friends Local artist, Eric Leadbetter, hosts his fellow musicians for this weekly free show every Tuesday. Come sit out on the brewery’s patio and enjoy an evening of music, food and most important... stellar craft beers! 6-8pm. Free.

21 Wednesday

AVID Cider Co. Taproom Bingo with a Brit Join with the favorite bloke Michael as MC, and win prizes, swag, gift cards and a once-a-month cash jackpot. Discounted beverages, $3 first card, $2 second card and each card after that just $1! 6:30-8:30pm.

The Belfry Solstice Bluegrass Throw-Down w/ Skillethead & The Pine Hearts Setting roots in the high and dry Central Oregon desert, Skillethead calls forth the best of bluegrass old and new. They ground themselves firmly in the bluegrass traditions of driving fiddle tunes, layered harmonies, and single mics, all the while weaving in inspiration and originality gleaned from genres far and wide. Just beneath the eaves of Washington’s Cascade Mountains, The Pine Hearts are combining wood, ore and soul to channel the colossal, organic spirit of the untamed Pacific Northwest. Their sound, like the environment around them, is ever-changing, harnessing classic country songwriting, the powerful emotive themes of experimental folk and the blazing-fast pickin’ rhythms of traditional Appalachian bluegrass — all the while staying rooted to their rock ‘n’ roll backgrounds. 7-10pm. $15.

Cabin 22 Trivia Wednesdays Useless Knowledge Bowl Live Trivia Game Show! It’s not your average quiz night. Team up to win gift cards. It’s fun and free to play, with Locals’ Day featuring Crater Lake and local craft beer specials. Get here this week! 6:30-8:30pm. Free.

Craft Kitchen and Brewery Comedy Open Mic Sign-up 7:30pm. Starts at 8pm. Free to watch. Free to perform. If you’ve ever wanted to try stand-up comedy, this is where you start! Free.

Crosscut Warming Hut No 5 Brian Craig Relax with a pint and enjoy great local music every Wed. from 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 at 6:30pm. Free to play. Win prizes. Teams up to 6. Free.

Hub City 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 Hub City every Wednesday and Thursday night and sing your heart out! 8pm-Midnight. Free.

JC’s Bar & Grill Trivia Nite with Trivia Girl Compete with your peers and test your knowledge of current events, music and other random categories while enjoying 75 cent wings! Also, JC’s trivia separates themselves from the rest with a physical challenge! 7-9:30pm. 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, which ever comes first. 21+. 6:30pm. Free.

Northside Bar & Grill Accoustic Open Mic w/ Derek Michael Marc Head down to the Northside Bar and Grill Wednesdays to catch local artists perform live. 7-9pm. Free.

Seven Nightclub & Restaurant The CO Show The CO Show is a free comedy showcase! Doors open at 7pm show starts at 8pm! Central Oregon Comedy Scene and Karaokaine productions have teamed up to bring this show to you! It’s co-hosted with multiple hosts, co-produced for Central Oregon! 8pm. Free.

Crosscut Warming Hut No 5 Ghost of Brian Craig Central Oregon singer-songwriter and folk rock artist performing a niche form of acoustic guitar live-looping, harmonica with his colorful original acoustic rock songs and rich storytelling. 6-8pm. Free.

Silver Moon Brewing Song & Story with Pete Kartsounes Pete is an award-winning flat picker singer-songwriter and cutting-edge musician’s musician. No stranger to life out on the road, Pete has spent over two decades bringing his voice and guitar to stages all over the world. Come experience one of Bend’s finest talents! 6-8pm. Free.

Open Hub Singing Club Sing in community... for the simple joy of creating meaning and beauty together! All voices and experience levels welcome. The group believes singing is a birthright and are reclaiming this ancient technology for belonging and well-being. The group sings easy-to-learn delicious songs in the paperless aural tradition. First timers are free! Lalalalala! Sundays, 1-2:30pm. First Presbyterian Heritage Hall, 230 NE Ninth St., Bend. Contact: 541-2416182. openhubsinging@gmail.com. $10-$20.

Public (ROCK) Choir’s Holiday SingAlong Bring your friends and family and get in the holiday mood! The public will sing classic holiday music loud to a live band. Seasonal favorites you know and love (or maybe not.) All lyrics will be provided. Feel free to dress in the spirit and get merry! Dec. 20, 6-8pm. Open Space Event Studios, 220 NE Lafayette Ave., Bend. Contact: 541-728-3798. info@getyourvoiceup. com. $18.

Scottish Country Dance Scottish Country Dance class is on Mon. from 7-9pm at the Sons of Norway Building, 549 NW Harmon. A chance to socialize and get a bit of exercise, too. Beginners are welcome. All footwork, figures and social graces will be taught and reviewed. Contact 541508-9110. Mondays, 7-9pm. Sons of Norway Hall, 549 NW Harmon Blvd., Bend. Contact: 541-5089110. allely@bendbroadband.com. $5.

FILM EVENTS

“Elf” Raised as an over-sized elf, Buddy (played by Will Ferrell) a human, travels from the North Pole to NYC to meet his biological father who doesn’t know he exists and is in desperate need of some Christmas spirit. Presented by Power 94. Dec. 14, 7pm. Tower Theatre, 835 NW Wall St., Bend. Contact: 541-317-0700. info@towertheatre. org. $17-$27 (plus $3 historic preservation fee).

Bend Production Society Holiday Happy Hour Join in celebrating and reflecting on Bend Production Society’s amazing year! Invite your friends and colleagues for a sophisticated evening amongst fellow photography and video production peers in effort to build a stronger, more supportive production community in Central Oregon. Dec. 15, 5-8:30pm. Open Space Event Studios, 220 NE Lafayette Ave., Bend. Contact: 541-410-5866. bendproductionsociety@ gmail.com. Free.

Holiday Family Movie Night Calling all cotton-headed ninny muggins! Join for a free screening of “Elf.” Bring a comfy chair, pillows and blankets. There will be an intermission and special treats will be available for purchase. Dec. 21, 6-8pm. High Desert Music Hall, 818 SW Forest Ave., Redmond. Contact: 541-312-1029. laurelw@deschuteslibrary.org. Free.

ARTS + CRAFTS

Art Viewing Visit Sagebrushers Art Society in beautiful Bend to see lovely work, paintings and greeting cards by local artists. New exhibit every 8 weeks. Visit Sagebrushersartofbend.com for information on current shows. Wednesdays, 1-4pm, Fridays, 1-4pm and Saturdays, 1-4pm. Sagebrushers Art Society, 117 SW Roosevelt Ave., Bend. Contact: 541-617-0900. Free.

Date Night: Learn to Weld Together

It’s DIY Cave’s date night version of welding workshop! You’ll learn to cut steel with a torch then try your hand at Mig Welding and take your creations home with you. Couples that weld together, stay together! Dec. 16, 6-8pm. DIY Cave, 444 SE Ninth St. Suite 150, Bend. Contact: 541-388-2283. heather@diycave.com. $99.

Tower Theatre Swingin’ Tower Christmas Enjoy a family-friendly holiday celebration of the most lively songs, dances and stories of the season. Host Mollie Tennant (“Cats,” “Les Miz”) heads a cast of local performers accompanied onstage by a live 15-piece big band. 7pm. $22$32 (plus $3 historic preservation fee).

MUSIC

Caroling by Central Oregon Mastersingers Enjoy traditional carols and fun arrangements of holiday classics performed by an ensemble of the Central Oregon Mastersingers. Founded in 2005, Central Oregon Mastersingers comprises many of the area’s finest singers who share a common passion for the best in choral music. Dec. 14, Noon-1pm. Downtown Bend Public Library, 601 NW Wall St., Bend. Contact: 541312-1029. laurelw@deschuteslibrary.org. Free.

Music in Public Places with Bend Cello Collective Enjoy the music from the Bend Cello Group, sponsored by Music in Public Places. MIPP is a program of the Central Oregon Symphony Association. These concerts are held at Central Oregon venues that traditionally are not recognized as being music concert venues. MIPP concerts offer music for the community. Dec. 14, 6-7pm. Downtown Bend Public Library - Brooks Room, 601 NW Wall St., Bend. Contact: 541-3121063. paigef@deschuteslibrary.org. Free.

Sunday Brunch and Karaoke Wake up right with brunch and karaoke! Sundays, 10am3pm. General Duffy’s Waterhole, 404 SW Forest Ave., Redmond. Free.

DANCE

Argentine Tango Classes and Dance

Join every Wednesday for Tango classes and dancing! Your first class is free. 6:30-7pm Tango 101 Class, no partner needed! 7-8pm All levels class. 8-9:30pm Open dancing. Wednesdays, 6:30-9:30pm. Sons of Norway Hall, 549 NW Harmon Blvd., Bend. Contact: 541-728-3234. tangocentraloregon@gmail.com. $5-$10.

Line and Swing Dancing Lessons Line and swing dance lessons every Thursday night at The Cross-Eyed Cricket! Thursdays, 7-9pm. Cross-Eyed Cricket, 20565 NE Brinson Blvd., Bend. Free.

Nia Fusion of dance, martial arts and healing arts focusing on reconnecting to body sensations and the body’s natural way of movement through form, freedom and play. You will dance though deep intention and joyful expressions to connect to your true nature. Wednesdays, 8-9am and Saturdays, 11am-Noon. Bend Hot Yoga, 1230 NE 3rd St. UnitA320, Bend. Contact: yoga@bendhotyoga. com. $20/drop-In.

Happy Campers Market Last-Minute Shopping Event

Your last chance to get locally-made products before the holidays! Free gift wrapping! Tie-dyed clothing, handmade soap, pottery, candles, baked goods, jewelry, cross stitch and more! This outdoor event has street parking and no public restrooms. Thanks for shopping local! Dec. 18, 11am-3pm. Nordic Construction, 154 Northeast Underwood Ave., Bend. Contact: 541-350-9578. info@1life.online. Free.

Kreitzer Open Gallery and Studio Give

the gift of a contemporary realist David Kreitzer original. Stunning Central Oregon splendor, water, koi, fantasy, figure and floral. SF Chronicle: “Kreitzer demonstrates the poetic intensity of the old tradition.” Mondays-Sundays, 11am-5pm. Kreitzer Art Gallery and Studio, 20214 Archie Briggs Rd., Bend. Contact: 805-234-2048. jkreitze@icloud.com. Free.

Learn to Crochet Learn the basics of crochet from instructor/designer Malaika Gabriel! This class covers basic crochet stitches, helpful tips and tricks and how to read a simple pattern. Register for just one session or several to set yourself up for crochet project success! Patterns provided. Third Thursday of every month, 11am1pm. Fancywork Yarn Shop, 200 NE Greenwood Avenue, Bend. Contact: 541-323-8686. hello@ fancywork.com. $40.

Eric Rachmany is a West Coast singer-songwriter who touches on genres of reggae, electronic and rock. He performs at 8pm on Thursday, Dec. 15 at the Domino Room with Kyle Ahern, Geoff Weers and Cydeways.

Photo courtesy of Eric Rachmany Facebook

Learn to Knit at Fancywork Yarn Shop

Get started on the path to creating your own treasured handknits! Learn the fundamentals of knitting, basic stitches, how to read a pattern, fix your mistakes, and more. Create a small project to take home. Pattern provided. Take three classes and earn a 10% discount on yarn! Every other Thursday, 5:30-7pm. Fancywork Yarn Shop, 200 NE Greenwood Avenue, Bend. Contact: 541-3238686. hello@fancywork.com. $10.

Visual Joy and Perfection: The Artistry of Master Fine Artist

David Kreitzer Join David in the Kreitzer Gallery and Studio, and experience sublime and healing Central Oregon splendor landscapes, the human figure, koi, California vineyards, floral and fantasy oil and watercolor images. Thursdays-Sundays, Noon5pm. Kreitzer Art Gallery and Studio, 20214 Archie Briggs Road, Bend. Contact: 805-234-2048. jkreitze@icloud.com. Free.

Learn to Make a Cutting Board Create a beautiful, handmade one-plank cutting board. They’ll have materials ready, and you’ll get to design and craft your cutting board for serving hors d’oevres or to give to someone special as a gift. You’ll use a variety of wood shop tools and learn skills that are useful for many projects. Dec. 19, 5:30-8pm. DIY Cave, 444 SE Ninth St. Suite 150, Bend. Contact: 541-388-2283. heather@diycave. com. $169.

Nancy Floyd: Walking Through The Desert with My Eyes Closed Art exhibition at Scalehouse featuring 2022 Guggenheim Fellowship recipient Nancy Floyd! First Friday opening 11/4 from 5-7pm. Visit www.scalehouse. org/artist-nancy-floyd. Wednesdays-Saturdays, 5-7pm. Through Dec. 31. Scalehouse Collaborative for the Arts, 550 NW Franklin Ave, Bend. Contact: marley@scalehouse.org. Free.

Welding Holiday Art Class It’s that time of the year for DIY handmade gifts. Come learn to weld as you make a festive holiday decoration out of steel! Using a design that has been pre-cut for you by the CNC plasma tools at DIYcave, you will prep and weld together a unique candle decoration Wed, Dec. 21, 6-8pm and Wed, Dec. 28, 6-8pm. DIY Cave, 444 SE Ninth St. Suite 150, Bend. Contact: 541-388-2283. heather@diycave. com. $179.

Woodworking: Learn to Use the Table

Saw This class will introduce you to one of the most important tools in the shop — the table saw. You’ll learn proper safety techniques and the variety of ways the saw can be used to expand your woodworking ability. You’ll get hands-on experience and be confident using this essential tool. Dec. 20, 5:30-7:30pm. DIY Cave, 444 SE Ninth St. Suite 150, Bend. Contact: 541388-2283. heather@diycave.com. $129.

PRESENTATIONS + EXHIBITS

Bend Ghost Tours Join for Ghosts and Legends of Downtown Bend Tour and hear all about Bend’s permanent residents! Your Spirit Guide will lead you through the haunted streets and alleyways of Historic Downtown Bend where you’ll learn about the city’s many macabre tales, long-buried secrets and famous ghosts. Wednesdays-Sundays, 7:30-9pm. Downtown Bend, Bend. Contact: 541-350-0732. Bendghosttours@gmail. com. $25.

SheJumps: Empowering Women

Through Adventure Speaker Series On the second Wednesday of each month, SheJumps will present female speakers on a variety of adventure topics. Wed, Dec. 14, 6:30-7:30pm, Wed, Jan. 11, 6:30-7:30pm and Wed, Feb. 8, 6:307:30pm. Crow’s Feet: A Mountain Collective, 2843 NW Lolo Dr., Bend. Free.

Third Thursday Open Mic at the High Desert Music Hall Spoken word open mic night for all poets, storytellers and writers. This is an in-person program. Join at the High Desert Music Hall for a spoken word open mic night the third Thursday of the month. All writers and readers and word-lovers invited to attend and read. Every third Thursday, 6-8pm. Contact: 541312-1063. paigef@deschuteslibrary.org. Free.

THEATER

Hello, Storytime: Snow! Hello, and welcome to Roundabout Books Storytime! Roundabout Books is looking forward to sharing stories, movement and a touch of music with 0-5 year olds, geared toward those younger ages. Dec. 14, 10:30-11am. Roundabout Books, 900 NW Mount Washington Dr., #110, Bend. Contact: 541-3066564. julie@roundaboutbookshop.com. Free.

Mystery Book Club Please join in-store or on Zoom for Mystery Book Club. The group will discuss "The Ladies of the Secret Circus" by Constance Sayers. Join Zoom link here: https:// us02web.zoom.us/j/87648931984?pwd=eHN4VjRIOVkyck5DL092OE9Nakd2QT09. Wednesdays, 10:30am.

RAB Middles Book Club Please attend the RAB Middles Book Club. There will be a discussion on "Number the Stars" by Lois Lowry. Zoom option available. Dec. 19, 6-7pm. Roundabout Books, 900 NW Mount Washington Dr., #110, Bend. Contact: 541-306-6564. julie@roundaboutbookshop.com. Free.

Third Thursday Spoken Word Night

Join at The Commons for a spoken word open mic night. All writers and readers and word-lovers invited to attend and read. Readers are invited to arrive early to sign up. Readers have seven minutes at the mic. Food and drink are available for purchase through The Commons. Dec. 15, 6-8pm. The Commons Cafe & Taproom, 875 NW Brooks St., Bend. Contact: 541-3121063. paigef@deschuteslibrary.org. Free.

Writers Writing: Quiet Writing Time

Enjoy the focus of a quiet space with the benefit of others’ company. This is an in-person program. Masks are recommended at all in-person library events. Bring personal work, read a book or answer emails. Come when you can, leave when you want. Free, open network WiFi available. Tuesdays, 1:30-4:30pm. Deschutes Public Library-Downtown, 601 NW Wall Street, Bend. Contact: 541-312-1063. paigef@deschuteslibrary. org. Free.

ETC.

Winter Nights: College Night High Desert Museum staying open late with free admission for college students! Join after hours to explore the latest exhibitions and enjoy a festive night out. Rimrock Café will also be open. Kids activities will still be happening, and the museum store will also be open with discounts. Dec. 15, 4-7:30pm. High Desert Museum, 59800 S. Highway 97, Bend. Contact: 541-382-4754. bburda@ highdesertmuseum.org. $6-$10, Members always free.

OUTDOORS + ATHLETIC EVENTS

Exhibition Opening:

“Under the Snow” Dive into the hidden world beneath the snow. In this subnivium environment, animals create a secret matrix of tunnels to survive the winter’s frigid temperatures and hide from the predators that lurk above. Using interactive graphics, visitors will meet the species that depend on the snow. Dec. 17, 10am-4pm. High Desert Museum, 59800 S. Highway 97, Bend. Contact: 541-3824754. bburda@highdesertmuseum.org. Free with museum admission.

On the Margins in Our Towns: An Interactive Discussion on Local Houselessness On Dec. 15, the City Club of Central Oregon is proud to host “On the Margins In Our Towns” — an interactive forum on houselessness across Central Oregon. This will be an engaging dialogue amongst participants supporting an understanding of the causes and conditions that are keeping so many unsheltered. Dec. 15, 11:30am1pm. Riverhouse on the Deschutes Convention Center, 3075 N. Highway 97, Bend. Contact: info@ cityclubco.org. Free-$40.

"A Gift To Remember" On Christmas Eve, during a snowstorm, a group of strangers are on a train to Boston from Bangor, Maine, where the airport had been shut down due to the weather. Once they reach Boston, many of the passengers hope to make connections to various destinations across the United States. Thursdays, 7:30pm, Saturdays, 7:30pm, Sundays, 7:30pm and Fridays, 7:30pm. Through Dec. 17. Cascade Theatrical Theatre, 148 NW Greenwood, Bend. $26/adults, $22/students or senior.

"Legally Blonde" JR The Musical B.E.A.T. Children’s Theater proudly presents Legally Blonde JR. The Musical. The incredibly talented cast and crew are thrilled to bring you the tale of Elle Woods and her pup Bruiser! Fri, Dec. 16, 7pm, Sat, Dec. 17, 2 and 7pm and Sun, Dec. 18, 2pm. Summit High School Auditorium, 2855 NW Clearwater Dr., Bend. Contact: 541-419-4388. bree.beal@beatonline.org. $10/student, $15/adult.

WORDS

Classics Book Club Please attend the Classics Book Club. A discussion regarding "Don Quixote" by Miguel de Cervantes will take place. Zoom option available. Dec. 14, 6-7pm. Roundabout Books, 900 NW Mount Washington Dr., #110, Bend. Contact: 541-306-6564. julie@ roundaboutbookshop.com. Free.

Badminton Night! Beginners and experienced players welcome. Extra racquets and shuttles provided. The $10 fee helps pay for the facility. Saturdays, 5-7:30pm. Through Feb. 25. Bend Hoops, 1307 NE 1st St, Bend. Contact: jimwinkle@gmail.com. $10.

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

Bend Area Running Fraternity The group will run, maintaining social distance, along the Deschutes River and then receive discounted drinks from the cidery after the run! Mondays, 5 and 5:30pm. Through Feb. 7. AVID Cider Co. Taproom, 550 SW Industrial Way, Bend. Contact: bendarearunningfraternity@gmail.com. Free.

OISRAN No. League Race Oregon

Interscholastic Ski Racing Association Nordic (OISRAN) Northern League is hosting a high school classic race. Race format: 5km, classic, individual start (15 sec intervals), boys and girls mixed start by seeding. Dec. 14, 3pm. Virginia Meissner SnoPark, Century Drive, Bend.

The Old Revival is a five-piece band from Bend that is playing rock ‘n’ roll for Central Oregon this weekend. Good Grief is joining the band on stage at 7pm on Friday, Dec. 16 at the Volcanic Theatre Pub. Rock out with these bands!

Photo courtesy of Old Revival Press

Bevel Putting Mayhem It’s a fun way to get to know our local disc golf club and meet some new people! Plus, all competitors get $1 off beverages all night (cannot be combined with any other discounts). Details: Head-to-head matches will play in a bracket-style putting competition, with double elimination! Sign-ups at 5:30pm with first putts at 6pm. $5 to enter, optional $1 for the “Perfect Putt Pot.” Bring 2 putters of your own or borrow Bevel’s!10 putts per round from 5 stations, 2 putts from each station. Wednesdays, 5:30-9pm. Bevel Craft Brewing, 911 SE Armour St., Bend. $5.

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

Holiday Lights and Cookie Run Cookie contest and run! f you want to be in the cookie contest, bring at least a dozen cookies and email: col@footzonebend.com to be entered. Anyone can bring cookies to share and FootZone will have additional cookies and drinks post run. Run leaves the store at 5:30pm. Meet at FootZone then run about a 3 -mile route to view holiday lights and enjoy cookies and beverages post run! All paces and all ages welcome. Bring the kids. FootZone will offer a shorter route as well. Dec. 14, 5:30pm. FootZone, 842 NW Wall St., Bend. Contact: 541-317-3568. Free.

Piano Concert in the Meissner Lodge Come and celebrate the start of winter in an unforgettably magical way with live piano music and cross-country skiing or snowshoeing. Tickets and headphones are limited and must be reserved at https://pianoflowlive2.eventbrite. com. Ski a 1-kilometer loop at Virginia Meissner Sno-Park. The trail will be illuminated by candlelight to keep skiers in range of the gorgeous sounds from Paula Dreyer’s Piano Flow Live set, which draws upon influences from classical, film, Spanish and improvised music. Hot cocoa and hot apple cider will be provided. Feel free to bring your own toasty beverage. Dec. 17, 5-6 and 7-8pm. Virginia Meissner SnoPark, Century Drive, Bend. Free.

Pine Needle Basketry Workshop During this weekend workshop, the group will make baskets out of pine needles. The group will make and take home a basket. It will be a day full of storytelling and crafting around a fire. Fee covers materials and instruction. Dec. 18, 10am-3pm. Bend, RSVP for address, Bend. Contact: 901-4864734. info@nighthawknaturalistschool.com. $60.

Redmond Running Group Run All levels welcome. Find the Redmond Oregon Running Klub on Facebook for weekly run details. Thursdays, 6:15pm. City of Redmond, Redmond, Or., Redmond. Contact: rundanorun1985@gmail.com.

Saturday Morning Coffee Run Come join CORK for a Saturday long run at 9am. The group will meet outside Thump Coffee on York Dr. for a long run. Feel free to run or walk, whatever “long” means to you! Whatever your pace and distance, Thump hopes you’ll join for the run and stay afterward for food and drinks! Saturdays, 9-10am. Thump Coffee - NW Crossing, 549 NW York Dr., Bend. Free.

Thursday Night Run Run through the Old Mill for around 3-5 miles, stay for food and drinks! Thursdays, 6-7pm. Spoken Moto, 310 SW Industrial Way, Bend. Free.

Winter Solstice Celebration The Pavilion celebrates the shortest day of the year with a Winter Solstice Celebration. With festivities to welcome winter’s delights, ice skaters who bring a canned food item to donate to NeighborImpact will receive a special $6 admission price including skate rental. It’s a wonderful party with lots of treats, smiles and a special performance by Bend Ice Figure Skating Club at 7pm. Dec. 16, 6-8:30pm. The Pavilion, 1001 SW Bradbury Way, Bend. Free.

Seriously Great Framing *

www.HighDesertFrameworks.com * And unbelievable photo printing!

Winter Solstice Forest Bathing Celebrate the shortest day of the year and the return of the light with a pre-Winter Solstice forest bathing walk. Take this time for yourself to relax, connect deeply to nature and create space to reflect on the past year and let go of anything that no longer serves you. Dec. 18, 1-2:45pm. Tumalo State Park, 64120 O. B. Riley Rd, Bend. Contact: mindy@rootedpresence.com. $25.

VOLUNTEER

Bunny Rescue Needs Volunteers

Looking for more volunteers to help with tidying bunny enclosures, feeding, watering, giving treats, head scratches, play time and fostering. All ages welcome and time commitments are flexible — weekly, monthly or fill-in. Located at the south end of Redmond. Email Lindsey with your interests and availability: wildflowerbunnylove@gmail.com. Ongoing. Ember’s Wildflower Animal Sanctuary and Bunny Rescue, 2584 SW 58th St., Redmond. Free.

Help Businesses Prosper! Share your professional and business expertise. Become a volunteer mentor with SCORE in Central Oregon. The chapter is growing. Your experience and knowledge will be valued by both new and existing businesses in the community. To apply, call 541-316-0662 or visit centraloregon.score.org/ volunteer. Ongoing. Contact: 541-316-0662.

Volunteer with Salvation Army The Salvation Army has a wide variety of volunteer opportunities for almost every age. Salvation Army has an emergency food pantry, the groups visit residents of assisted living centers and make up gifts for veterans and the homeless. Ongoing. Contact: 541-389-8888.

Volunteers Needed for Humane Society Thrift Store Do you love animals and discovering “new” treasures? Then volunteering at the HSCO Thrift Store is a great way to combine your passions while helping raise funds to provide animal welfare services for the local community. For more information visit the website at www.hsco.org/volunteer. Ongoing.

Humane Society Thrift Shop, 61220 S. Highway 97, Bend. Contact: 541-241-3840. abigail@hsco. org. Free.

GROUPS + MEETUPS

Bend Parkinson’s Support Group Monthly Meeting

Parkinson’s Support Group

Meetings third Wednesday of every month at the Best Western Premier Bend. Patients and caregivers are welcome to join us. These meetings serve as a resource for educational and emotional support. Focusing on providing local services, bridging the gap between medical care and wellness. Fun and engaging! Third Wednesday of every month, 2-3:30pm. Best Western Premier, 1082 SW Yates Drive, Bend. Contact: 541-6686599. carol@parkinsonsresources.com. Free.

Mirror Pond Fish Passage Advisory Committee Webinar

The City of Bend’s Mirror Pond Fish Passage Advisory Committee will host a virtual meeting to review and discuss details of the decision tool that the committee will use to make a recommendation on the preferred fish passage options at Mirror Pond. This webinar is open to the public. Dec. 15, 10amNoon. Contact: ntcontracting1@gmail.com. Free.

Hysteria Comedy Collective: Comedy

Neuroqueer Meetup A safe place for neurodivergent, queer individuals to exchange with the goal of promoting exploration and sharing of experiences, as well as empowerment and connection to community. Every other Wednesday, 6-7:30pm. The Base at Franklin, 5 NW Franklin Avenue, Bend. Contact: 541-610-8826. hello@ baseatfranklin.com. Free.

Bend Ukelele Group (BUG’s) Do you play Uke? Like to learn to play? Beginners and experienced players all welcome to join the fun every Tuesday at 6:30-8pm at Big E’s just off 3rd street near Reed Market. Go play with the group! Tue, Dec. 6, 6:30pm and Tuesdays, 6:30pm. Big E’s Sports Bar, 1012 SE Cleveland Ave., Bend. Contact: 206-707-6337. Free.

Competitive Cribbage Play nine games of cribbage versus nine different opponents. Cash prizes awarded based on number of wins. Mondays, 5-8pm. Deschutes Junction, 2940 N Hwy 97, Bend. Contact: 541-530-1112. rickyticky1954@gmail.com. $2-$18.

Toastmasters of Redmond Become a confident public speaker. Do you want to become a member of an organization that provides a safe and supportive environment to improve your public speaking skills? A place that fosters community, socialization and builds your self confidence. A place to have fun. Newcomers are supportively welcomed. Tuesdays, Noon-1pm. Church of Christ, 925 NW 7th St., Redmond. Contact: 541-292-6177. garyae@gmail.com. $60 for 6 months.

Winter Solstice and Community Potluck Reflect, release and revitalize your spirit. Solstice activity starts at 5:45pm, potluck after. Dec. 21, 5:30-7:30pm. Michelle Ericksen, 1410 SW Juniper Avenue, Redmond. Contact: 541-6038485. drmichelle.ericksen@gmail.com. Free.

FUNDRAISING

Pints for Pups Dog Food Drive Worthy Brewing will accept donations of dog food in exchange for a $3 pint of your choice! Dog food will be donated to the local nonprofit, CAMP-Companion Animal Medical Project, benefiting Central Oregon’s unhoused companion animals and their humans. Dec. 18, 11:30am. Worthy Brewing, 495 NE Bellevue Dr., Bend. Contact: 541-706-0816. sam@worthybrewing.com. Free.

SEASONAL EVENTS + MARKETS

Beer & Carols Come and join for an evening of incredible fun and connecting with one another. There will be a special art project for kids. Festive attire encouraged. Bring cookies to share (optional). Cider, kombucha and other beverages available. Dec. 18, 5-6pm. First Presbyterian Bend, 230 Northeast 9th St., Bend. Contact: 541382-4401. bellis@bendfp.org. Free.

Magical Markets of Merriment Back by popular demand, the Magical Markets of Merriment at at Somewhere That’s Green! Join every weekend after Thanksgiving. Featuring 12+ new local makers, Santa Claus and goodies galore. Come sip on a butter beer, warm up with the plants and melt into the holiday cheer. Dec. 1718, 10am-5pm. Somewhere That’s Green, 1017 NE 2nd St., Bend. Contact: 541-330-4086. help@ somewheregreen.com. Free.

Worn

is back

15th

things off with a Worn Wear

hour! Have some clothing in need of a quick fix? Worn Wear and Gear Fix repair pros will sling free minor fixes with bowls of chili and beverages from Deschutes Brewery. Dec. 15, 6:30-8:30pm. Patagonia Bend, 1000 Wall St. Suite 140, Bend. Contact: 541-382-6694. customerservice@patagoniabend.com. Free.

Waypoint Holiday

Market at The

Grove With many local vendors, The Grove is hosting a holiday market! Dec. 17, 11am-3pm. The Grove, 921 NW Mt. Washington Dr., Bend. Free.

Holiday Makers Market Get ready to sip and shop with local vendors, businesses, friends and family! Dec. 17, Noon-5pm. Midtown Yacht Club, 1661 NE 4th St., Bend. Free.

Menorah Lighting Back in Center Plaza this year, the Chabad of Central Oregon hosts their annual menorah lighting in the Old Mill District. Festivities start at 4:30pm and the menorah will light at dusk. All faiths and denomination are encouraged to attend the menorah lighting in the Old Mill District! Dec. 18, 4:30-5:30pm. Old Mill District, 450 SW Powerhouse Dr. Suite 422, Bend. Contact: visitbend.com/event/menorah-lighting/. Free.

Holiday Farmers Market Need a last minute Holiday gift? Join each Friday at the 10 Barrel Westside location and shop great gift ideas from local businesses. Fridays, Noon-4pm. Through Dec. 31. 10 Barrel Brewing Co., 1135 NW Galveston Ave., Bend. Free.

Writing Workshop

Welcome to Hysteria, a comedy collective open to all female-identifying, trans and non-binary folks. Whether you are a seasoned performer or completely new to the scene, Hysteria invites you to join the community of professional, novice and aspiring stand-up comedians. Its mission is to create a space where there is support for each other’s growth as writers/performers, give and receive feedback on materials and foster a more inclusive, progressive and artistic comedy community. Third Wednesday of every month, 5:30-7pm. Open Space Event Studios, 220 NE Lafayette Ave., Bend. $10.

Holiday Night Market Join to sip on cocktails while shopping for the perfect gift from local artisans! Central Oregon craft vendors will join at the distillery to show off their holiday wares. Oregon Spirit Distillers will run a drink special of $8 cocktails. Dec. 17, 6-9pm. Oregon Spirit Distillers, 740 NE First St., Bend. Free.

Juniper Preserve Winter Market Shop local at the Juniper Preserve Winter Market for the last weekend to get your holiday shopping in this year. The second winter market is happening! It will feature an array of awesome local goods and service providers. Dec. 18, 12 and 2:30pm. Juniper Preserve, 65600 Pronghorn Club Dr., Bend. Contact: signup@juniperpreserve.com. Free.

Resellers Row Vintage clothing resellers team up for a holiday market to remember. Hosted indoors, this exciting reselling event is presented to you by the creators of The Bend Moonlight Market for some quaint but stylish shopping options. Come spread Christmas cheer, grab a day drink and support local! Dec. 17, 10am-3pm. Open Space Event Studios, 220 NE Lafayette Ave., Bend. Contact: 541-410-5866. info@openspace.studio. Free.

Winter Bazaar Attention holiday shopping procrastinators, come to General Duffy’s Waterhole for those last-minute Christmas gift finds during our winter bazaar! Make sure to shop and sip on 12/18 from 10am to 5pm. The annex will be lined wall-to-wall with vendors, spilling outside into the tent. Dec. 18, 10am-5pm. General Duffy’s Waterhole, 404 SW Forest Ave., Redmond. Contact: 541-527-4345. tanner@generalduffys. com. Free.

Wreath Making & Cider Grab a friend and learn how to make a holiday wreath while sipping on cider. $30 gets you in person instruction and materials. By the end of the class you will have a wonderful wreath to gift or display. Drink specials will be available, too. Call 541-410-0639 to reserve. Dec. 15, 5:30-7:30pm. Bend Cider Co., 64649 Wharton Ave., Bend. Contact: 541-4100639. info@bendcider.com. $30.

FAMILY + KIDS

After School Art Club Art club is a unique after-school program for kids to create and bring their ideas to life in an inspiring studio space. The weekly schedule features a different focus each day; choose the day that most interests your child or nurture their creativity across a variety of media. Mondays-Tuesdays-Thursdays, 2:30-5pm. Through Dec. 15. Wondery Art + Adventure School, 19550 Amber Meadow Dr Suite 190, Bend. Contact: sarah@wonderyschool.com. $150 per month.

Wear Happy Hour Dirksen Derby

for its

year, and Patagonia Bend is kicking

happy

Saxophone master and singer, Patrick Lamb, is making his way to Central Oregon. Playing around with beats and solos, Lamb is performing a Charlie Brown Christmas concert with music from Vince Guaraldi. Join the festivities at 4pm on Saturday, Dec. 17 at the Tower Theatre.

Photo courtesy of Patrick Lamb Press

GUNG HO

By Allie Noland

Rock Out for Music Education

Phish fans unite for a night of giving back and jamtronica music. Local band Fractal is partnering with the Mockingbird Foundation to raise money for youth music education at a benefit concert this Saturday at the Domino Room.

The Mockingbird Foundation is a nonprofit supporting music education for young people, founded in 1997 by Phish fans passionate about inspiring future talent. Since it was founded, the nonprofit has distributed over $2 million in 558 grants in all 50 states. The funds are spent on music programs, scholarships and instruments.

Liora Sponko is a board member with the Mockingbird Foundation and lives in Bend. She wanted to bring awareness to the work the nonprofit was doing to build confidence in young musicians in underserved communities.

“I thought a benefit concert would be a good way to connect music fans to this work,” Sponko said. “It's the perfect audience, because music fans understand the importance of music education and building skills in young artists.”

When looking for a local band to partner with, there was no better fit than the organic jamtronica band, Fractal. As Phish fans themselves, the band was familiar with the foundation before Sponko asked them to team up.

“Their music is really intricate and engaging, and it evolves,” Sponko said. “They're a really fun, local band.”

Playing music from Lotus, Goose, STS9 and Phish and rocking out to original songs, this band’s sound features rhythmic grooves that cross genres. Fractal is known for high-energy shows and playing dance music for lively audiences.

Tickets are $10 and all net proceeds will benefit Mockingbird. Those passionate about the cause will have an opportunity to make larger contributions at the concert. Sponko will be at the informational booth to answer questions and provide a space for donations.

Concertgoers will also have the chance to win big with giveaways from local sponsors, including day passes to Mt. Bachelor, a river rafting trip on the lower Deschutes, an Apple TV, Mountain Supply gear, massage certificates, tattoo gift certificate and more.

Fractal to Benefit Music Education

Sat., Dec. 17, 8pm

The Domino Room 51 NW Greenwood Ave., Bend mbird.org

$10

Fractal and the Mockingbird Foundation partner to raise money for young musicians to build skills and confidence

Fractal is a five-piece band that plays organic jamtronica originals and surf rock grooves.

Erica Swantek

CALENDAR

Give the gift of connection and relaxation through touch with a gift certificate for a Couples Massage Class this Christmas! 2 or 4-hour classes available at Taproot Bodywork in Tumalo. One couple per session. Additional days/times are available, prices vary. https://www.taprootbodywork.com/ Saturdays-Sundays. Through Feb. 19. Taproot Bodywork studio, Tumalo, Tumalo. Contact: 503-481-0595. taprootbodywork@gmail. com. Varies.

Holiday Couples Massage Classes

The Giving Plate’s Santa’s Plate Event

Create holiday memories with your children at The Giving Plate’s Santa’s Plate holiday experience. Your children will walk through holiday landscapes, meet Buddy the Elf, Santa, princesses and more! Before leaving, they will get to create their own Santa’s cookie plate to take home just in time for Christmas. Dec. 18, 10am-5pm. Riverhouse on the Deschutes, 3075 N. Highway 97, Bend. Contact: 541-797-6883. events@thegivingplate.org. $20/child.

Holiday Bento Workshop Create seasonal works of art through food for your lunchbox! Materials provided. Registration required. Registration ends 12/15 at 2pm. Not only will you leave with a delicious bento, but you will also learn some fun tricks to making lunches fun and nutritious. Dec. 19, 6-7:30pm. Downtown Bend Public Library - Brooks Room, 601 NW Wall St., Bend. Contact: 541-312-1029. laurelw@deschuteslibrary.org. Free.

Kids Yoga Classes Kids will enhance flexibility, gain strength and improve balance and coordination through our kids yoga classes. Mindful yoga techniques are important for calming the nervous system, managing frustrations and improving focus. The group will also be exploring mindful drawing and art projects. Ages 5-8yrs. Wednesdays, 3:15pm and Wednesdays, 3:15pm. Through Feb. 2. Free Spirit Yoga + Fitness + Play, 320 SW Powerhouse Drive, Suite 150, Bend. Contact: 541241-3919. info@freespiritbend.com. $145.

Mini-Gingerbread House Making Looking for a fun holiday activity to do with your kids/ grandkids? Join and decorate a mini “gingerbread house” made from graham crackers. They will provide all of the supplies! Children must be accompanied by an adult. RSVP to Becca at bellis@bendfp.org. Dec. 14, 2-4pm. First Presbyterian Bend, 230 Northeast 9th St., Bend. Contact: 541-382-4401. bellis@bendfp.org. Free.

SantaLand Families can stop in and take pictures will Jolly St. Nick every Friday through Sunday after Thanksgiving until Dec. 23. You’ll also find the Tree of Joy in SantaLand, a project between the Rotary Clubs of Central Oregon and the Salvation Army that provides gift suggestions for children and families in need. Dec. 16-18, 11am5pm and Dec. 21-Nov. 23, 11am-5pm. Old Mill District, 450 SW Powerhouse Dr. Suite 422, Bend.

The Giving Plate’s Jingle Store

The Jingle Store is the annual, free community event where kids can come and “shop” for gifts to give to those they love. Each child 2-17 will get $10 in Jingle Bucks to “shop” for toys, meet Santa, Buddy the Elf and princesses. Dec. 16, 3-8pm and Dec. 17, 9am-6pm. Riverhouse on the Deschutes, 3075 N. Highway 97, Bend. Contact: 541-797-6883. events@thegivingplate.org. Free with reserved time slot.

Winter Break Art Camp

Each no school day camp is a uniquely magical experience where creativity buzzes through the air, kiddos connect over shared projects, and campers leave each day full of excitement to share the ideas they’ve brought to life. The days flow between open create, a guided workshop, outdoor exploration and games. Dec. 19-23, 9am-3pm. Wondery Art + Adventure School, 19550 Amber Meadow Dr Suite 190, Bend. Contact: sarah@wonderyschool. com. $400.

Wreaths Across America Ceremony

Join to honor veterans laid to rest at Deschutes Memorial Gardens as part of “Wreaths Across America.” The brief indoor ceremony is followed by laying wreaths on the veteran graves. You can attend for either part of the ceremony, or both. The ceremony is followed by refreshments. Dec. 17, 9-10am. Deschutes Memorial Gardens and Chapel, 63875 N Highway 97, Bend. Contact: mmegentry@gmail.com. Free.

FOOD + DRINK

El Kussho The winter pop-up is back! Come enjoy Latin American-Japanese inspired delicious dishes and cocktails in a cozy and at-home room! Thursdays-Saturdays, 4-9pm. Through March 4. El Sancho Super Secret Side Street Saloon, 133 SW Century Dr. Suite 204, Bend. Free.

Artisan Farmers Market Featuring local goods from the Crooked River Ranch community, find jewelry, produce and more at this unique shopping experience. Sat, Dec. 17, 9am-3pm. Crooked River Ranch, 5060 SW Clubhouse Rd., Crooked River Ranch. Free.

Sunday Brunch Sunday Brunch featuring fresh local, seasonal ingredients and beverage specials. Sundays, 10am-1pm. Eqwine Wine Bar, 218 SW 4th St, Redmond. Contact: 541-527-4419. Free.

Tekka Tiger Tekka Tiger takes a trip to Malaysia! Tekka Tiger will serve some staple dishes you can find in any Malaysian restaurant. Come check out Bend’s newest food cart. Saturdays-Sundays, 12:30-4pm. Through Dec. 30. Bend Cider Co., 64649 Wharton Ave., Bend. Free.

Vineyard Sunday Brunch Please join on Sunday mornings for the new Vineyard Sunday Brunch in our cozy tasting room. FHC will have a special rotating menu that will be different every week, peach or pomegranate mimosas and the award-winning wine will be available for purchase. Dec. 18, 11am-2pm. Faith, Hope and Charity Vineyards and Events, 70450 NW Lower Valley Dr., Terrebonne. Contact: 541-526-5075. events@fhcvineyards.com. $32/adults, $15/children 12 and under.

Youth Baking Class-Cheesecakes

Holiday Wine Dinner

The holiday season is here, so why not celebrate with a holiday wine dinner! Please join this hands-on class where we will make three courses of seasonal food. Each course will pair with wine. Dec. 16, 5:30-9pm. Kindred Creative Kitchen, 2525 NE Twin Knolls Dr., Bend. Contact: 541-640-0350. kindredcreativekitchen@gmail.com. $100.

Cheesecakes are amazing when they are made correctly. They are actually quite easy once you know how to make them. Parents, have your child (age 7-17) join this hands on class where they will learn to make a variety of cheesecakes. Please be sure to send a your child with a dinner or snack. Dec. 17, 5:30-9pm. Kindred Creative Kitchen, 2525 NE Twin Knolls Drive, Bend. Contact: 541-640-0350. kindredcreativekitchen@ gmail.com. $50.

Scott Pemberton O Theory is all about deep jazz, blues, rock/grunge, funk and psychedelia. The trio blends genres making for a fun night of music. Joining the group on stage is the Sonic Benders. Catch the show at 8:30pm on Saturday, Dec. 17 at the Volcanic Theatre Pub.

Photo courtesy of Scott Pemberton O Theory Facebook

Youth Cooking Camp-French Cuisine France has a rich culinary history, from rustic peasant food to the most technical dishes. Have your child (age 7-17) join this hands-on camp where they will learn to make a variety of classic French meals. Mon, Dec. 19, 11am-2pm, Tue, Dec. 20, 11am-2pm and Wed, Dec. 21, 11am2pm. Kindred Creative Kitchen, 2525 NE Twin Knolls Drive, Bend. Contact: 541-640-0350. kindredcreativekitchen@gmail.com. $170.

BEER + DRINK

Bottle & Board Mondays Join on Mondays at Bend Wine Bar for local, small batch Oregon and Washington wines at the Box Factory. Take $5 off any white wine and cheese, salami or charcuterie board or $10 off a red wine and board. Tasting room for The Winery at Manzanita. Mondays, 2-9pm. The Bend Wine Bar & Winery Tasting Room, 550 SW Industrial Way, Suite 194, Bend. Contact: info@bendwinebar.com. Free.

Central Oregon Winter Beer Fest

In the GoodLife/Century Center parking lot, what a better way to celebrate Oregon craft beer and the community here in Central Oregon than at a beer festival during the holiday season! Beer, cider, fire pits and music! Family and leasheddog friendly… and hopefully snow on the ground! Drink package $25, includes commemorative DrinkTank stainless mug and 5 drink tokens (5 oz. pour each). Additional drink tokens $2 each or three for $5. The COWBF event is a fundraiser for the Oregon Brewers Guild, whose mission is to promote and protect Oregon craft beer through advocacy, education and events. Dec. 17, 2pm-9pm. GoodLife Brewing, 70 SW Century Drive, Suite 100-464, Bend. Contact: 541-3908325. info@oregonbeer.org. Free admission, $25/ drink package.

Cross Cut Warming Hut: Locals’ Day! Every Tuesday enjoy $1 off regular size draft beverages. Come by the Warming Hut and hang out by the fire. See you soon, Bend! Tuesdays. Crosscut Warming Hut No 5, 566 SW Mill View Way, Bend.

Drappier Champagne Tasting Join while the group tastes through four Drappier champagnes! No reservation needed. Dec. 16, 5-7:30pm. Good Drop Wine Shoppe, 141 NW Minnesota Ave., Bend. Contact: 541-410-1470. sarah@gooddropwineshop.com. $25.

Eqwine Wine Happy Hour Weekly Happy Hour discounts with small plates and hors d’oeuvres available. Thursdays-Saturdays, 4-6pm. Eqwine Wine Bar, 218 SW 4th St., Redmond. Contact: 541-527-4419. Free.

Growler Discount Night! Enjoy $2 off growler fills every Wednesday at Bevel! Bevel Craft Brewing, 911 SE Armour St., Bend. Contact: 831-245-1922. holla@bevelbeer.com. Free.

Locals’ Night with The Bluegrass Collective Monday is the day to be at Silver Moon Brewing! Come on down and join the local family all day every Monday! Silver Moon offers $3 pints of the core lineup beers and $4 pours of the barrel-aged beers all day. Come down and sample what’s new while also enjoying the brand new food menu! It’s a steal of a deal that they won’t be chasing you out the door for! Mondays. Silver Moon Brewing, 24 NW Greenwood Ave., Bend.

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

National Lampoons Christmas Vacation Costume Party Join the jolliest bunch of a**holes this side of the nuthouse for the hap-hap-happiest Christmas party in Bend! Grab your moose mug and your friends and come dressed in your Griswold best. Prizes for best costume, food vendors, drink specials and all the festive vibes! Dec. 17, 6-10pm. Boss Rambler Beer Club, 1009 NW Galveston Ave., Bend. Free.

Paint Night! Get your artistic juices flowing and get in the holiday spirit! $35 includes all the supplies and instruction. Drinks and food available, but sold separately. Registration is required. For more info and to buy tickets, visit riversplacebend.com/paintnights. Mon, Dec. 19, 5:30-7:30pm. River’s Place, 787 NE Purcell Blvd., Bend. Contact: 541-525-5792. riversplacebend@ gmail.com. $35.

Thursday Night Football Welcome to the new era of Thursday Night Football only on Amazon Prime and shown on Peppertree Pub’s 6 big screen TVs. $10 for one appetizer and a pint of beer poured from 15 rotating taps. It’s the NFL like you have never seen it before at the new Peppertree Pub. Thursdays, 4-9pm. Peppertree Pub, 1082 SW Yates Drive, Best Western Premier, Bend. Contact: 541-382-2007. bendsales@peppertreeinns.com. Free.

Whiskey Tuesdays The Cross-eyed Cricket Watering Hole is offering exclusive access to a library of top shelf whiskeys every Tue. One-ounce pours for reasonable prices. Come by and try something new, or sip on your favorites! Tuesdays, 11am-11pm. Cross-Eyed Cricket, 20565 NE Brinson Blvd., Bend. Free.

Wine Tasting Every Third Thursday Our resident wine expert, David, will pour hand-selected wines from across Oregon and around the globe. He’ll introduce you to new grapes, producers and styles. He will help you select unique and exceptional wines from a continually rotating selection. Stop by anytime between 5-7p. Third Thursday of every month, 5-7pm. West Coast Provisions, 2735 NW Crossing Dr., Bend. Free.

Bend Zen Meditation Group Bend Zen sits every Mon, evening at 7. Arrive at 6:45pm to orient yourself and meet others. The group has two 25-minute sits followed by a member-led Dharma discussion from 8:05-8:30pm. All are welcome! Learn more and sign up for emails at www.bendzen.net. Mondays, 6:45-8:30pm. Brooks Hall at Trinity Episcopal Church, 469 Wall St., Bend. Contact: bendzensitting@gmail.com. Donations accepted.

Biofield Tuning Energy Balancing Session Biofield tuning is an energy balancing method for self-healing and wellness that uses sound waves produced by specialized tuning forks to rebalance the energy centers and transmute unwanted information stored in the body’s magnetic field. Discover biofield tuning by joining Tami Zenoble for a one-hour group healing session! Dec. 15, 6:30-8pm. The Peoples Apothecary, 19570 Amber Meadow Dr., Bend. Contact: 541-728-2368. classes@thepeoplesapothecary.net. $25.

Drop In Monday Meditation Open to all! Come join in the beautiful gardens for meditation and healing! Mondays, 6:30-7:30pm. Blissful Heart Wellness Center, 45 NW Greeley Ave., Bend. Contact: 510-220-2441. cathleen@blissful-heart.com. Donation based.

Solstice Candle Making Ceremony

Celebrate solstice with a mindful experience of manifestation, meditation, sound healing and candle making. Making a candle is a kind of alchemy. When creating a candle with mindful intention, you’re making a physical representation of a non-physical idea, manifesting your intent into existence. All materials provided for your unique creation. Dec. 17, 2-5pm. Namaspa Yoga Studio, 1135 NW Galveston Ave., Bend. Contact: 541-550-8550. laurentheyogi@gmail.com. $55.

TAP - Beer Church Tap is a casual gathering of First Presbyterian Bend for those who long to explore and talk about spirituality in a spacious environment, where curiosity and inclusivity are at the heartbeat of our time together. All ages welcome, art projects for kids and drinks on us! Sundays, 5-6pm. Through Jan. 4. First Presbyterian Bend, 230 Northeast 9th Street, Bend. Contact: bellis@bendfp.org. Free.

Winter Solstice Candlelight Sound Bath w/ Ezra Alya Celebrate this winter solstice in candle light with the fairy like tones from seven quartz-crystal singing bowls. To create beautiful ambiance, flameless candles will be set up all over the space for this sound bath. Candlelight symbolizes birth, death, resurrection and sacredness. Join us for a relaxing evening of sound. Dec. 20, 6:30-8pm. The Peoples Apothecary, 19570 Amber Meadow Dr, Bend. Contact: 541-728-2368. classes@thepeoplesapothecary. net. $40.

Women Tasting Flights

Two flights of three wines with two food pairings and a special guest presenter. December’s Women Tasting Flights event features bubbles! A flight of six different styles of sparkling wine including, of course, champagne. Dec. 19, 5:30-7:30pm. Flights Wine Bar, 1444 NW College Way Suite 1, Bend. Contact: 541-728-0753. flightswinebend@gmail.com. $75.

HEALTH + WELLNESS

An Eckankar Soul Adventure: Eckankar Spiritual Experiences Meetup Group Would you like to grow spiritually in a creative yet structured way? If so, please join for an Eckankar Soul Adventure discussion of the sacred song of HU. Together the group will try a spiritual exercise, share inspiring spiritual stories and learn about everyday spirituality. Please RSVP to: ineckservice@gmail.com. Dec. 14, 7-8pm. Free.

Guided Forest Bath Forest Bathing is the practice of immersing yourself in the forest through sensory connection. This practice will slow you down and deepen your relationship with nature and others. It is a great practice for friend groups and families. This guided experience is hosted by Missie Wikler, a certified forest therapy expert. Saturdays, 10am-Noon Through March 25. Shevlin Park, 18920 Shevlin Rd., Bend. Contact: 541-316-9213. missie@romingyogabend. com. $35.

Kirtan: Celebrate With the Bend Bhakti Collective Kirtan, sacred song, dance and community. Celebrate with the Bend Bhakti Collective. Thursdays, 7pm. First Presbyterian Heritage Hall, 230 NE Ninth St., Bend. Contact: 541-382-4401. Free-$20.

Sacred Cacao Ceremony w/ Mythical Chocolates

Join for an evening of ceremony with the sacred drink of the Cacao bean. Through singing, visualizations, music, breath and intention, we invite you to fan the flame of your inner light, deepen your roots and allow the symbiotic interplay of cacao and community connection to speak to you. Dec. 17, 6:30-8pm. The Peoples Apothecary, 19570 Amber Meadow Dr, Bend. Contact: 541-728-2368. classes@thepeoplesapothecary.net. $30.

Winter Solstice Labyrinth Walk Celebrate solstice with your community in a silent meditation walk. The group begins with a brief gathering, then proceed through the labyrinth in silence. Dress warmly and bring a flashlight/ candle. Enjoy a hot beverage. Please bring your own mug. Dec. 21, 7-8pm. Sisters Community Labyrinth, Highway 242 and W. Hood Avenue, Sisters. Contact: 503-709-1148. tiffany@plazm. com. Free.

Yoga for a Happy Spine - Spine Health and Longevity Create strength in common areas of weakness and flexibility in common tight areas of the spine. The group will work to improve posture habits that you can take with you off your mat in order to create an equal tension system in the connective tissue and joints of the spine. Dec. 17, 2-3:30pm. Bend Hot Yoga, 1230 NE 3rd St. UnitA320, Bend. Contact: yoga@ bendhotyoga.com. $15/BHY members, $25/ non-members.

The Grouch and Eligh are a rap duo that highlights electric beats and has been releasing music since 1999. The duo’s music is uplifting and catchy. Jam out and vibe with The Grouch and Eligh at 8pm on Sunday, Dec. 18 at the Volcanic Theatre Pub.

Photo courtesy of The Grouch and Eligh Facebook

CHOW

A Bend Institution is Here to Stay

Taj Palace settles into a new location with new vibes and great Indian cuisine

By Jared Rasic

As I sat down to eat a massive plate of Indian food at Taj Palace (in its new location on South Highway 97) a stray thought hit me: There is nowhere on Earth I’ve eaten at more than the Taj Palace. In February Taj Palace will celebrate its 20th anniversary in Bend and my friends and I have been hitting that buffet for each one of those years (except during COVID, and even then I might have if it was an option). I’ve eaten Indian cuisine up and down the West Coast, but Taj Palace has completely shaped my taste for it.

I hadn’t been to Taj Palace since before COVID and I never would have expected to be remembered as a regular after so many years. When I walked into the much larger new location, owner/operator Pullareddy Lakireddy, AKA “Reddy,” didn’t just greet me, but walked up to me and embraced me like family. After almost a year of missing their deep bench of flavors and aromas, I’m not ashamed to admit that hug almost brought a tear to my eye.

As much as I was connected to Taj Palace’s location downtown, the new spot in the old Red Dragon building near Wal-Mart is brighter, cleaner, with more tables, more parking and a larger and more expansive buffet.

“We are really blessed; we moved from downtown to this new location,” says Reddy. “Because of plenty of parking and more than 100 seating capacity and a very spacious place.”

With the wide variety of Southern Indian dishes that Reddy and his family grew up eating in the Velvadam village of Andhra Pradesh, there really is a dish for every palate. Most of the dishes in the buffet are pretty mild on the heat levels (although my mom got cooked by the Spinach Dal Curry), but those who are after something spicier can also order off of the menu and have the spice level curated precisely to their taste.

In the interest of science, I tried absolutely everything on the buffet while also asking Reddy if there were a few things on the menu that I should try that weren’t available regularly on the buffet.

He brought me the Lamb Vindaloo (boneless with potatoes in a spicy sauce) and Chilli Chicken (boneless and shredded with ginger, garlic and onions). The vindaloo had a thick, delicious sauce that balanced the vinegar, coconut milk

and ginger beautifully, the lamb so fresh and tender that it melted in my mouth. The Chilli Chicken was the exact level of spicy I was after and played as the perfect appetizer to my deep dive at the buffet. The onions and peppers were perfectly cooked and really highlighted the chicken in ways I wasn’t expecting. Honestly, as much as I love the buffet, I might order off the menu every once and a while too, in order to try different things with a much more varied spice level.

But that buffet honestly tastes better than ever. The Spinach Pakora (spinach with chickpea dumpling) is the perfect crunchy palate cleanser. The Sambar (lentil veggie soup) hosts a myriad of complex flavors perfect for the cold weather. I have the same attack pattern for the buffet that I always do: spread out a thin layer of Vegetable Biryani (basmati rice with mixed veggies)

across the whole plate and then add little mountains of food all over it. Aloo Gobi (spicy potatoes and cauliflower), Chana Masala (Garbanzo beans with a yogurt and turmeric-forward masala sauce) and the Spinach Dal Curry (lentils with spinach and tomatoes) get evenly distributed around the outer rim of the Biryani. Then in the center I go with Chicken Curry, Lamb Curry, Saag Paneer (creamed spinach, cheese and spices) and then, my very favorite, the Chicken Makhani AKA: Butter Chicken (boneless chicken in a creamy tomato sauce). Flop four pieces of nan off to the side and you have a feast.

I’m sure you have your own way of building your plate, but mine is scientifically perfect (so says my taste buds). The combination of the richness of the Makhani with the layered spice of the Aloo Gobi and the texture of the Biryani make each bite a completely different excursion into flavor profiles we don’t get enough of in Central Oregon. After 20 years of eating Taj Palace I’m most definitely excited for 20 more.

Taj Palace

61247 S Hwy 97, Bend 541-330-0774

Lunch buffet: 11am-2:20pm Dinner buffet: 5pm-8:30pm

Closed Tuesday Taj Palace 20th Anniversary on Feb. 12, 2023 tajpalacebend.us/

Photo courtesy of Jared Rasic and Robert Marquez

CULTURE

When walking through a gallery, the urge to get too close to the art and touch everything is unbearable. Fancy art galleries and art studios host beautiful work, but it can be intimidating and uncomfortable to walk through. The Underground Book Gallery is breaking the barrier between art and the viewer with its interactive bookthemed art gallery.

Down a flight of stairs on the sidewalk of NW Oregon Avenue and Wall Street lies Downtown Bend’s hidden gem, the Underground Book Gallery. Bernadette Foley and Justin Schlosberg opened up shop at the start of 2022.

“We had so many books,” Foley said. “Our house was full. Our storage was full. Our friend's garage was full. We had too many books, we needed a spot, this spot was opening and it was kind of perfect.”

Filling the shelves and covering the walls are books ranging from $1 to $3,000 — vintage comics, old classics, rare books, used novels, literature decorated with stunning covers and everything in between.

Schlosberg owned a book gallery in Colorado for over 20 years and has acquired quite the collection of old and out-of-print books. This inspired the rare book room found in the back of the gallery, where people can touch the books and flip through the pages, unlike other rare book rooms.

The focus is books, but the couple still wanted to keep it about art. Featuring

Book-Themed Art Gallery Inspires Creativity

Downtown Bend’s book and art lovers’ haven is the cozy, funky Underground Book Gallery

By Allie Noland

around 15 local artists at a time, the Underground Book Gallery is filled with creative energy ready to inspire.

There are a variety of ways to act on inspiration and interact with the space — playing the piano, searching through old books on the shelves, using the typewriters to make personal cards, fishing through old papers and clippings for collaging, listening to live music and looking at local artwork. And using this space as a creative outlet is free.

“I just love the idea of art being for everyone and art being interactive, fun and silly,” Foley said.

Prices range drastically at this shop. The 20-cent crate is full of book scraps, old magazine pages, vintage posters and random pieces of paper. Collaging fanatics, kiddos looking for something they can buy with their own money and vintage paper fans shuffle through this crate. More expensive items are found on the walls or in the rare book room.

The Underground Book Gallery has hosted live music, live painting sessions, interactive book artwork events, chess nights, card making sessions, book release parties, candle-making classes and First Friday celebrations. Before every First Friday (or whenever she has a spark of inspiration), Foley rearranges and restocks the gallery because she wants it to look different every time someone comes in.

Schlosberg is an artist and author himself and is known for his penguin

pieces and humorous books, including, “A Peculiar Day in Coney Island” and “My Family Album.” With a calligraphy pen, a touch of humor, splattered ink, a story and a penguin, people have started collecting his artwork.

“I was kind of extending the arms on the penguin for Penguin Publishing with pen and ink,” Schlosberg said. “Then started writing goofy little things that went along with it. And then [Foley] really liked that. So, I bumped up production, if you will, when we came here. Kind of crazy.”

For more information on events or art inquiries, people are encouraged to stop by the shop, Foley said. The Underground Book Gallery doesn’t have a

website and prioritizes in-person interactions and Instagram for communication, but that doesn’t mean people can’t get a hold of the owners. When the shop is closed, Schlosberg puts his number on the door and tells people to call him at any hour.

Jan. 6 will be its one-year anniversary and First Friday, so shoppers and art-goers can expect a big celebration in the funky, cozy space under the streets of Bend.

Underground Book Gallery Mon-Sun, Noon-6pm 206 NW Oregon Ave. Lower Level, Unit A, Bend. Instagram: @undergroundbookgallery

Books from the 1800s to the 2020s cover the walls of the Underground Book Gallery.

Allie Noland

SC Legends of the Pacific Northwest

SCREEN

“I Am D.B. Cooper” tries to solve a mystery

By Jared Rasic

If there’s something we have plenty of in the majestic Pacific Northwest, it’s urban legends and folklore. We’re the birthplace of Sasquatch, the UFOs at Mount Rainier, The Bandage Man of Cannon Beach, and of course, D.B. Cooper. Obviously, D.B. Cooper is a bit different since he was a person who definitely existed and is not a cryptid, but the amount of speculation about what hap-pened to him after his brazen and death-defying robbery has filled dozens of books just the same.

For the uninitiated, here are the basics: On Nov. 24, 1971, a man on board a flight from Portland to Seattle hijacked the plane with a supposed bomb in an attaché case. He demanded $200,000 in a knapsack, to be delivered to the plane once they landed in Seattle, as well as four parachutes. Once he had the money and parachutes, Cooper released the passengers and took off with a skeleton crew, headed to Reno as a refueling stop before eventually going to New Mexico. Cooper then parachuted out of the plane sometime before Reno, but the flight crew didn’t notice that he wasn’t on the plane anymore until after they landed. Later, modern technology that factored in wind currents created the popular theory that his drop zone was somewhere near the drainage area of the Washougal River, off the Columbia River. The crime remains the only unsolved case of air piracy in history.

Who D.B. Cooper was and what happened to him after he jumped from the

plane is a thing of legend, with tons of speculation and dozens of suspects that have popped up over the last 50 years. The number of theories online is numbing and completely inconclusive, so I was excited to receive a screener for the new film, “I Am D.B. Cooper,” a hybrid documentary/narrative that fills much of its running time with reenactments, while also following a pair of bail bondsman brothers and the weird old man they’re convinced is D.B. Cooper.

After watching “I Am D.B. Cooper,” I remain numb and unconvinced, and I’m also maybe a little mad at the marketing team behind the film. They’re pushing the film as the definitive answer to the mystery of Cooper, but really all they have is another person claiming they’re the mysterious hijacker. In all fairness, Rodney Lewis Bonnifield makes for an interesting subject and there are some fascinating circumstantial connections he has to the case, but the film is anything but a mind-blowing discovery of the real Cooper.

What really makes the movie hard to watch is the choices director T.J. Regan makes in telling the story. Half the movie is a 70s-style crime caper and the other half a documentary following Bonnifield and bail bondsmen Carlos and Mike Rocha as they try to vet Bonnifield’s story, following him out to the Columbia River to find Cooper’s buried money. Just typing that up makes the movie more awesome than it is, but Bonnifield isn’t enjoyable to spend time

with and the actor playing Cooper (Ryan Cory) is stuck with a character written like an irritating crackhead you don’t want to be around. Honestly, the film would work much better if it was a documentary OR a recreation of the event, but as a bastardized hybrid of the two, it’s aimless and schizophrenic.

What’s also a bit sketchy is that the two bail bondsmen are actually Bonnifield’s current bondsmen, since he’s waiting to find out if he has to do jail time for stabbing a guy he claims is a pedophile. I almost wonder if they didn’t have enough footage and story for the documentary, so they shot the reenactments to fill time. It feels like someone is definitely getting taken advantage of and that someone is actually everyone.

Bonnifield comes across as such an eccentric that instead of the film’s steadfast obsession with D.B. Cooper, the movie could have broken down his many stories and been about how America criminalizes the mentally ill or something with a little more meat on its bones. Instead, we’re left with half a documentary and half a period piece about D.B. Cooper and neither one really works. “I Am D.B. Cooper” doesn’t solve any mysteries; it just raises questions about what the purpose of a documentary is supposed to be.

“I Am D.B. Cooper”

Dir. T.J. Regan

Grade: D Now Streaming

How could modern day treasure hunting be so boring?

Photos courtesy of Gravitas

AFTERSUN: A woman looks back on a vacation she took with her father 20 years earlier through watching miniDV footage and, somehow, it doesn’t feel like looking at a stranger’s scrapbook. There’s something deeply affecting about the movie as it connects to a primal node in our lizard brain in how we connect to our memories and remember our childhoods. Bring tissues and the willingness to see a filmmaker fearlessly experiment with cinematic language. Tin Pan Theater

AVATAR: THE WAY OF WATER: I know it’s easy to joke that no one really wanted a sequel to a movie that came out in 2009 that basically had the same plot as “Dances With Wolves” and “Fern Gully,” but James Cameron does tend to change the game every time he releases a new movie. With “Terminator 2,” “The Abyss” and even “Titanic,” the man creates spectacle on a level that theaters were designed to show. Regal Old Mill, Sisters Movie House, Odem Theater Pub, McMenamins

BLACK ADAM: This looks like every other superhero movie ever made, but “Black Adam” has been The Rock’s passion project for decades, leading me to believe there’s something about this story worth telling. I just want to see The Rock fight Superman, Batman, Wonder Woman, Shazam and Aquaman at the same time. Regal Old Mill

BLACK PANTHER: WAKANDA FOREVER: This will hopefully be a reset for people who are getting sick of Marvel as they remember why they liked the MCU in the first place, but this was also a loving and heartbreaking tribute to the late, great Chadwick Bozeman. Regal Old Mill

BONES AND ALL: I wasn’t sure I needed a redneck cannibal romance starring Timothee Chalet and Taylor Russell, but now that it’s here I can’t wait for it. From Luca Guadagnino, the filmmaker behind “Call Me By Your Name,” expect this to be a genuinely transgressive horror movie. Regal Old Mill

DECISION TO LEAVE: Park Chan-wook is the godfather of the South Korean New Wave and a part of the holy trinity of god-level Korean filmmakers (along with Bong Joon-ho, the director of “Parasite” and Kim Jee-woon (director of “I Saw the Devil”). “Decision to Leave” is Park’s first film since 2016’s lushly magnificent “The Handmaiden” and an absolute jaw-dropping display of fearless cinematography, expertly crafted shot compositions and flawlessly calibrated storytelling. Tin Pan Theater

EMPIRE OF LIGHT: A nostalgic ode to 1980s movie theaters starring Olivia Colman with Sam “Skyfall” Mendes in the director’s chair and Roger “No Country for Old Men” Deakins as cinematographer? Sign me up! I’m sure there will be plenty of room. Regal Old Mill

THE FABELMANS: According to plenty of critics, Steven Spielberg’s newest film (his first that’s autobiographical) is not just a love letter to filmmaking, but one of the best movies of the year. Michelle Williams is always incredible and movies about movies are my kryptonite, so I expect to be bawling and in love with movies all over again. Regal Old Mill

THE MENU: A highly respected chef brings a group of the astoundingly wealthy to a private island to unveil a lavish menu for them, but things go horribly wrong. The trailers make this look like a horror comedy (which is kinda top three film genres) and with a cast featuring Ralph Fiennes, Anya Taylor-Joy, Rob Yang, Hong Chau and John Leguizamo, you’ll have to fight me to keep me out of the theater for this one. Regal Old Mill, Sisters Movie House, Odem Theater Pub

SPOILER ALERT: Michael Ausiello has long been one of my favorite writers about film and television, but a few years ago he wrote a book about his real-life romance with someone diagnosed with terminal cancer. From the director of “The Big Sick” comes this adaptation of his story, which looks like a genuinely touching story we haven’t seen before. Regal Old Mill

STRANGE WORLD: This Disney animated science fiction adventure follows a family of explorers who have to put aside all their drama to journey to a new and surreal planet. This looks like one of those old dimestore sci-fi paperbacks that I collect like a bad habit, so I know where I’ll be opening night. Regal Old Mill

TICKET TO PARADISE: George Clooney and Julia Roberts star in ATTRACTIVE PEOPLE FALLING IN LOVE: THE MOTION PICTURE. Regal Old Mill, Odem Theater Pub

TRIANGLE OF SADNESS: A pitch-black comedy about politics, class and money, mostly set on a luxurious cruise ship captained by Woody Harrelson. This is from filmmaker Ruben Ostland, whose last two movies (“The Square” and “Force Majeure”) were absolute knockouts and, while this doesn’t quite hit those heights, it’s still one hell of a movie.

Tin Pan Theater

VIOLENT NIGHT: Basically, this is a mash-up of “John Wick,” “Die Hard” and “Home Alone” from the writers of the “Sonic the Hedgehog” movies and the director of the great zombie comedy (zombedy?) "Dead Snow.” I’m pretty sure David Harbour was also born to play Santa and he definitely delivers. Regal Old Mill, Sisters Movie House, Odem Theater Pub

WHITE NOISE: Based on the deliriously inventive and witty novel by Don DeLillo comes an adaptation from Noah Baumbach, the deliriously inventive and witty filmmaker behind “The Squid and the Whale” and “Frances Ha.” It follows a college professor and his unwieldy family as they attempt to escape an Airborne Toxic Event in the most ridiculous ways possible. Regal Old Mill

DEVOTION: Starring the incredibly busy Jonathan Majors, “Devotion” tells the true story of Jesse Brown, the first Black aviator to complete U.S. Navy training. It’s a hell of a true story and director J.D. Dillard has proven he’s a phenomenal storyteller after 2016’s “Slight” and 2019’s “Sweetheart,” so expect this to be an absolute knockout of a biopic. Regal Old Mill, Sisters Movie House

Photo courtesy of Tin Pan Theatre

Species Spotlight: Great Horned Owl

Who’s hooting in the middle of winter?

By Damian Fagan

It’s early morning around 4 am. I’m parked along the edge of Tumalo Reservoir and standing outside my truck on this cold, December morning. The night sky’s brilliance is amazing, but I’m here to listen for the deep hooting, territorial calls of Great horned owls instead of just enjoying the stars above.

These owls, named after their large ear tufts, can begin their courtship calling early in the season; hence my standing here in the cold and quiet. Fortunately, I don’t have to wait long as I hear not one but two owls duetting from the woods across the reservoir. Their classic “Who’s Awake? Me, too!” cadence and the hoot’s deep pitch is unmistakable. I can also hear the pitch difference between the males’ and females’ hoots, the male being lower, so I’m assuming that this is a mating pair asserting their territorial claim. It’s also the fifth pair of owls I’ve heard this morning since leaving my house off Knott Road, testimony to the early-season nesting of these owls.

“Great horned owls are common in Central Oregon and range from forested environments to backyards,” said Lauri Turner, Deschutes National Forest wildlife biologist. There was even a pair that usurped a raven’s nest in the front parking lot at the DNF’s Supervisor’s Office. “The ravens were not very happy about this and tried to haze the female from the nest until the male decided to roost in the next tree,” said Turner. “We watched the ravens pull her tail feathers, remove sticks from the nest while she was on it, and heckle her constantly, but she remained unfazed.” Though the Great horned successfully fledged young for three years in a row, the nest was blown out during a storm.

If those Great horned owls stay in the area, they’ll have to wait for the ravens to build another nest, as the owls don’t build their own. More likely, the owls will move on. And as Turner noted, perhaps the advantage to the owl’s early season nesting is to utilize these raven or other raptor nests and become established prior to those birds showing up.

Predator-Prey Interactions

Great horned owls deserve the nickname “Flying tiger,” as they are tenacious owls. Their large size and fierce nature make them apex predators, one that has few enemies besides humans. One nest cam set up at a nest in Savannah, Georgia, shows a red-tailed hawk knocking an owl off the nest, revealing a young owlet.

The camera also recorded an interesting variety of prey items delivered to the owlet by the adults including small mammals, bullfrogs, a barred owl, snakes, and even a great egret. Here in Central Oregon, squirrels, rabbits, and rodents are common prey items and, from olfactory observations by Think Wild staff: skunks.

“One funny thing I’ve noticed during my time at Think Wild is that almost every Great horned owl patient that we’ve gotten in has smelled like skunks,” said Molly Honea, Think Wild development and communications coordinator. “Skunks are nocturnal, and

the owls are going to eat what’s out there.” Though the smell doesn’t affect the owls, Honea joked, “It does bother their rehabbers!”

Think Wild does see a variety of owl patients each year but Great horned owls are by far the most common.

“We have had 43 Great horned owls just this year,” added Honea. “Owls in general tend to be pretty common at the hospital because they’re active at night and get struck by cars.” Surprisingly, the second-most-common reason Great horned owls are brought to the wildlife hospital is entanglement in barbed wire fencing. Both reasons also tend to be fatal due to the extent of the injuries sustained with a vehicle collision or entanglement with wire.

The extent of an owl’s injuries will determine the course of action. Unfortunately, many injuries such as compound fractures or blindness in both eyes leads to the birds being humanely euthanized. Those with less severe injuries that make it through treatment and rehab have to pass live prey tests prior to being released back into the wild.

“People can sign up to be on our list and we’ll reach out when there is a wildlife release,” added Honea. “It’s a cool way for people to engage with our program and support our work.”

Record Keeping

I plan to upload my owl observations into eBird, an online birding database that tracks my sightings and connects me to the greater birding community. This list serve enables birders to contribute toward the science and conservation of wild avian species and to help spread the enjoyment of being out on cold winter mornings.

Wild thinkwildco.org

Think

A Great horned owl perches in a neighborhood ponderosa, with its characteristic large ear tufts.

Damian Fagan

By Allie Noland

It’s a Snowboarder’s Weekend

Back for the 15th year, the Dirksen Derby Snowboard & Sit-Ski Rally Race takes over Bend

Together,

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HSCO Shelter 61170 SE 27th St Bend OR 97702

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Since its first race in 2007, the Dirksen Derby has brought snowboarders from all over to Mt. Bachelor for weekends full of shredding, community and uplifting support.

Josh Dirksen, professional snowboarder of 35 years, was inspired to organize this race to raise money for Tyler Eklund, who was severely injured in the USASA Snowboard Nationals in California. The racing event started with three divisions, 58 total racers and raised $1,160 for Eklund, according to the event website.

Fourteen races later, the Dirksen Derby has raised over $300,000 for charities and individuals and has helped stabilize Eklund’s hospital bills. This year’s Dirksen Derby Snowboard & Sit-Ski Rally Race happens this weekend. The race schedule is listed on the website with specific times at dirksenderby.com.

There will be 20 inclusive divisions, 540 race spots and $27,000 worth of donations to Protect Our Winters, Oregon Adaptive Sports, Central Oregon Avalanche Association and Eklund (who will be racing this year in the adaptive division).

“The Derby has turned into just a community focused event where we all get together and care about the things that are important to us,” Dirksen said. “There are a lot of special stories and a lot of people that benefit from the weekend, whether it be fun times, socializing or donation opportunities.”

Whether attendees are watching a pro athlete in their prime, a 6-year-old go-getter or the 60+ division, the afternoon will be full of boarders of all ages and abilities shredding down the 100% hand-crafted Parallel Banked Slalom courses at Mt. Bachelor.

The Dirksen Derby features a world-class timing system by CJ Timing that combines times from the red and green courses to present a final time ranking the athletes at the end of the weekend.

In 2007, the race was a, “single 30-second run down the dirt halfpipe with metal fencing poking out of the turns and hay bales to ollie over before hitting a jump at the finish line,” recorded by a manual stopwatch, according to the website. After 15 years, the transformation has been notable to say the least.

Get the stoke started at the Patagonia Bend Worn Wear Happy Hour on Thursday at 6pm. With drinks, chili and free minor gear fixes from Worn Wear and Gear Fix, this event will welcome winter athletes as they get to town for the weekend. Check out other related weekend events on the website.

“I see this opportunity for me to give something tangible, face-to-face, that I can offer in snowboarding,” Dirksen said.

Central Oregon and pow-loving people from across the state are invited to the races. Sifting through the snow-covered trees off Skyliner, people can take a run, stop, watch and cheer on athletes. Professional snowboarder Ben Ferguson will race in the Elite Men’s division along with notable professional athletes.

Dirksen Derby

Fri., Dec. 16 – Sun., Dec. 18

Mt. Bachelor 13000 SW Century Dr., Bend dirksenderby.com

CRAFT Late Harvest Means Bumper Crop for Central Oregon

Maragas Winery expects 2022 will be an excellent vintage

By Brian Yaeger

If you grow anything at home—tomatoes?—did you notice your bumper crop this season? Maragas Winery owner Doug Maragas sure did. Not just with the tomatoes, as well as garlic, pumpkins and more, but chiefly in this year’s harvest of Vitis vinifera. European wine grapes. It isn’t just that he had a banner har vest in terms of volume, but that the extra time means the grapes will result in a stellar vintage.

The only bummer for local winos is that Maragas tends to employ extend ed aging for his wines, meaning most of his 2022 vintages, such as the Petite Syrah, won’t actually be released until 2028. The Chardonnay ought to come out of its barrels in 2027. That said, signs likely point to several such extraordinary vintages, given that they serve as a sort of silver lining to the perils of climate change.

Maragas is no Nostradamus, but he predicts many greater growing seasons and attributes this year’s yield to the new climate. The extended sunny and dry summer coupled with a first freeze that didn’t arrive until early November meant that the comparative extra month of ripening allowed for the vinifera to develop ideal sugars and acids that will create wines akin to the famous French vintages three and four decades back.

In 1999, back when other climatologists and agronomists insisted Central Oregon didn’t lend itself to decent vineyards, Doug and Gina Maragas established their eponymous Culver winery, starting to plant vines in 2006. They now grow an astounding 40-plus varietals of vinifera on 21 acres of rich, volcanic soil, plus more on a second vineyard in Warm Springs.

Maragas Winery won 11 medals at the 2022 San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition, including double golds

for his Petite Syrah and Zinfandel.

“It was a gamble,” reflects Maragas, “but I thought it was an educated gamble. In hindsight, it was a good move. There’s no substitute for premium grapes…I realized it was remarkable that no one had grown Northern Italian grapes, German and French grapes [here], but the soil and climate are perfect.”

That said, Maragas confesses he’d “rather be growing Riesling and Gewürztraminer”—colder-climate wine grapes—"than have climate change with downsides like violent weather.”

Instead, “Napa harvested earlier than ever and we harvested later than ever.”

So again, while global warming may have led to a Loire Valley-like harvest this year, Maragas fears this year won’t be, “a coincidence or aberration. And farmers need to look at the science, the facts.”

Although the 2022 vintages won’t be available for some time (except “Fresh,” a Pinot Gris that will be released next year) and there are only a few Bend restaurants and retailers where Maragas distributes (including Whole Foods), joining their wine club may be the ideal way to ensure access to the wines when they become available. Production is limited to around 2,000 cases. There’s no fee but members commit to buying quarterly shipments at a discount and several releases are exclusively available to members. Another way to access Maragas wines is by visiting the winery where guests can enjoy a tasting flight.

15523 SW Highway 97, Culver MaragasWinery.com

Maragas Winery

Photo courtesy of Maragas Winery

By Brendan Emmett Quigley

ASTROLOGY

By Rob Brezsny

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): I applaud your expansive curiosity. I admire your yearning to learn more and more about our mysterious world as you add to your understanding of how the game of life works. Your greed for interesting experiences is good greed! It is one of your most beautiful qualities. But now and then, there come times when you need to scale down your quest for fresh, raw truths and work on integrating what you have already absorbed. The coming weeks will be one of those times.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): Better than most, you have a rich potential to attune yourself to the cyclical patterns of life. It's your birthright to become skilled at discerning natural rhythms at work in the human comedy. Even more fortunately, Capricorn, you can be deeply comforted by this awareness. Educated by it. Motivated by it. I hope that in 2023, you will develop your capacity to the next level. The cosmic flow will be on your side as you strive to feel the cosmic flow—and place yourself in closer and closer alignment with it.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Anne, a character in a book by L. M. Montgomery, says she prefers the word "dusk" over "twilight" because it sounds so "velvety and shadowy." She continues, "In daylight, I belong to the world . . . in the night to sleep and eternity. But in the dusk, I'm free from both and belong only to myself." According to my astrological assessment, you Aquarians will go through a dusklike phase in the coming weeks: a time when you will belong solely to yourself and any other creature you choose to join you in your velvety, shadowy emancipation.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): My Piscean friend Venus told me, "We Pisceans feel everything very intensely, but alas, we do not possess the survival skills of a Scorpio or the enough-is-enough, self-protective mechanism of the Cancerians. We are the water sign most susceptible to being engulfed and flooded and overwhelmed." I think Venus is somewhat correct in her assessment. But I also believe you Fishes have a potent asset that you may not fully appreciate or call on enough. Your ability to tune into the very deepest levels of emotion potentially provides you with access to a divine power source beyond your personality. If you allow it to give you all of its gifts, it will keep you shielded and safe and supported.

ARIES (March 21-April 19): Aries painter Vincent van Gogh was renowned for translating his sublime and unruly passions into colors and shapes on canvas. It was a demanding task. He careened between torment and ecstasy. "I put my heart and soul into my work," he said, "and I have lost my mind in the process." That's sad! But I have good news for you, Aries. In the coming months, you will have the potential to reach unprecedented new depths of zest as you put your heart and soul into your work and play. And hallelujah, you won't lose your mind in the process! In fact, I suspect you will become more mentally healthy than you've been in a long time.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): "The soul is silent," writes Taurus poet Louise Glück. "If it speaks at all, it speaks in dreams." I don't agree with her in general, and I especially don't agree with her in regard to your life in the coming weeks. I believe your soul will be singing, telling jokes, whispering in the dark, and flinging out unexpected observations. Your soul will be extra alive and alert and awake, tempting you to dance in the grocery store and fling out random praise and fantasize about having your own podcast. Don't underestimate how vivacious your soul might be, Taurus. Give it permission to be as fun and funny as it yearns to be.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): The coming weeks will be an excellent time to expand your understanding about the nature of stress. Here are three study aids: 1. High stress levels are not healthy for your mind and body, but low to moder -

ate stress can be good for you. 2. Low to moderate stress is even better for you if it involves dilemmas that you can ultimately solve. 3. There is a thing called "eustress," which means beneficial stress. It arises from a challenge that evokes your vigor, resilience, and willpower. As you deal with it, you feel hopeful and hardy. It's meaningful and interesting. I bring these ideas to your attention, dear Gemini, because you are primed to enjoy a rousing upgrade in your relationship with stress.

CANCER (June 21-July 22): Long before he launched his illustrious career, Cancerian inventor Buckminster was accepted to enroll at Harvard University. Studying at such a prestigious educational institution was a high honor and set him up for a bright future. Alas, he was expelled for partying too hard. Soon he was working at odd jobs. His fortunes dwindled, and he grew depressed. But at age 32, he had a pivotal mystical experience. He seemed to be immersed in a globe of white light hovering above the ground. A disembodied voice spoke, telling him he "belonged to the universe" and that he would fulfill his life purpose if he applied himself to serving "the highest advantage of others." How would you like a Buckminster Fuller-style intervention, Cancerian? It's available if you want it and ask for it.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): Leo-born Judith Love Cohen was an electrical engineer who worked on NASA's Apollo Space Program. She was also the mother of the famous actor Jack Black. When she was nine months pregnant with Jack, on the day she went into labor, she performed a heroic service. On their way to the moon, the three astronauts aboard the Apollo 13 spacecraft had encountered a major systems failure. In the midst of her birth process, Judith Love Cohen carried out advanced troubleshooting that helped save their lives and bring their vehicle safely back to Earth. I don't expect you to achieve such a monumental feat in the coming days, Leo. But I suspect you will be extra intrepid and even epic in your efforts. And your ability to magically multitask will be at a peak.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): When you're at the height of your powers, you provide the people in your life with high-quality help and support. And I believe you could perform this role even stronger in 2023. Here are some of the best benefits you can offer: 1. Assist your allies in extracting bright ideas from confusing mishmashes. 2. Help them cull fertile seeds from decaying dross. 3. As they wander through messy abysses, aid them in finding where the redemption is. 4. Cheer on their successes with wit and charm.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): A blogger named Daydreamydyke explains the art of bestowing soulful gifts. Don't give people you care for generic consumer goods, she tells us. Instead, say to them, "I picked up this cool rock I found on the ground that reminded me of you," or "I bought you this necklace for 50 cents at a yard sale because I thought you'd like it," or "I've had this odd little treasure since childhood, but I feel like it could be of use to you or give you comfort, so I want you to have it." That's the spirit I hope you will adopt during the holiday season, Libra—as well as for all of 2023, which will be the year you could become a virtuoso gift-giver.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): In 1957, engineers Alfred Fielding and Marc Chavannes invented three-dimensional plastic wallpaper. No one bought the stuff, though. A few years later, they rebranded it as Bubble Wrap and marketed it as material to protect packages during shipment. Success! Its new use has been popular ever since. I suspect you are in a phase comparable to the time between when their plastic wallpaper flopped and before they dreamed up Bubble Wrap. Have faith in the possibility of there being a Second Act, Scorpio. Be alert for new applications of possibilities that didn't quite make a splash the first time around.

Homework: Make a prediction about the best thing that will happen in your life during 2023. Newsletter.FreeWillAstrology.com

By Mike Macy, LMT

Acupuncture has used the bodymind connection to prevent and treat disease for thousands of years. In the Five Element Theory, winter is the season for the water element and its kidney and bladder meridians. Since winter officially arrives Dec. 21, it seems appropriate to focus on the kidneys and fear, the emotion most closely associated with them.

Traditional Chinese Medicine views the kidneys as the most yin (female) of the 12 meridi ans and winter as the season for turning inwards and rest. Think hibernation. Of course, this is anathema to our economic system which has us doing the opposite, our finances and health be damned.

Physiologically, the kidneys balance fluids and electrolytes and eliminate toxins. Failure in balancing can lead to frying the heart’s electronics or congestive heart failure, the latter akin to flooding the engine room. Failure to remove toxins from the blood also threatens life, hence the proliferation of dialysis centers (where machines do the work of failing kidneys) in our communities.

It's remarkable that TCM connected fear with the kidneys more than 2,500 years ago. Consider it a near miss. Kidneys certainly are affected when we are in danger. However, more specifically, the adrenal cortices, the glands atop each kidney, are the organs most involved. In the face of danger or stress, the adrenals pump out adrenaline (epinephrine) and other neurotransmitters so that we can immediately run like the wind (flight) or kick like a mule (fight). Of course, all this assumes that we are not in adrenal fatigue from constant stress, unrelenting danger or PTSD and its cousins, and drug abuse, pharmaceuticals or toxic exposures have not damaged our kidneys.

Of course, not everything we fear deserves it. The acronym FEAR stands for False Evidence Appearing Real. Most of us experienced this as kids when our parents turned the lights off and closed the bedroom door, leaving

us to conjure all kinds of monsters from that noise in the closet or the branch brushing against the side of the house, etc. Of course, adults are susceptible, too, making us easy targets for the purveyors of fake news and products and services promising to cure what ails us, real or imagined.

While TCM may be correct in associating the kidneys with fear and other emotions with other organs, the brain parks unprocessed emotional overloads indiscriminately. Therefore, we can just as easilyhave unprocessed fear in our big toe, heart, lungs, bicep, or even in our head. For example, at an advanced workshop, a colleague mentioned that she’d had a headache all week. Ironically, her mind had parked her fear that she was inadequate in one of the four arteries serving her brain. Upon finding that belief, the flow through her right vertebral artery improved and her headache eased. Fear and other emotions and beliefs parked in our tissues prevent us from living in the present and keep us reliving and recreating crises past.

Hoping to make BIG changes in 2023? Balanced, happy kidneys give us resolve. Of course, a kidney stuck to a neighboring structure following injury or infection, won’t be happy.

Holiday book suggestions:

• “Anxious People,” Fredrik Backman’s humorous look at love

• “The Myth of Normal,” Gabor Maté, MD; all you need to know about health how our culture sickens us

• “Northern Paiutes of Malheur,” David H. Wilson’s exploration and exposure of a horrific, local genocide

—Bend resident Mike Macy, LMT, is an avid skate-skier, fat-tire biker, and birder. His book BodyWise conveys insights gained during 30 years as a Craniosacral Therapist. Reach him at mefmacy@gmail.com.

TAKE ME HOME

Neighborhood wildfire prevention could get help from state, insurers under proposed legislation

By Alex Baumhardt, Oregon Capital Chronicle

Neighbors hoping to join together to prevent wildfires could get a boost from the state and rewards from insurers under legislation being proposed by state Sen. Jeff Golden, D-Ashland.

Golden discussed his plans for the tentatively named Neighborhood Wildfire Protection Act at a meeting of the Senate Natural Resources and Wildfire Recovery Committee Thursday.

The bill would direct the state fire marshal to help neighborhoods organize and register with the national Firewise Neighborhoods program and eventually compel insurers to reward policy holders in those neighborhoods with lower premiums or the assurance that policies would be renewed without significant increases in the years ahead.

The Firewise program includes a set of criteria for organizing neighbors to collaborate on risk assessments and wildfire mitigation projects. It’s administered by the National Fire Protection Agency, a nonprofit based in Massachusetts.

A Firewise Neighborhood can consist of a minimum of eight dwellings and a maximum of 2,500. Houses, cabins and mobile homes count as single dwellings. Each unit in an apartment or condominium is considered a single-family dwelling, so a 10-unit apartment building would count as 10 dwellings.

Most homes damaged by wildfire are ignited by embers or burning debris that lands on gutters, vents, decks and dry grass, according to the agency.

To register with the program, neighbors must first form a board or committee that includes representation from an official of a local or state fire agency. The committee identifies the boundaries of the neighborhood and obtains a wildfire risk assessment from a local fire department or state forestry agency that must be updated every five years.

Next, the committee creates an action plan, including a list of wildfire mitigation projects around the neighborhood, and suggestions for individual homeowners to minimize risk. The plan, updated every three years, needs to include a timeline for completing and maintaining projects in high-risk areas.

Such projects could include removing flammable vegetation around buildings, clearing any combustible material such as tree limbs, dry leaves and grass and sealing any gaps in roofs and exterior walls with fire-resistant materials.

Much of the work is voluntary, and each household in the Firewise Neighborhood is expected to contribute a minimum of one hour of work annually.

Since the program started in 2002, nearly 1,000 communities in 40 states have joined and about 80% are still participating, according to the agency’s site.

It’s possible that Firewise Neighborhoods requiring significant financial assistance could qualify for certain state grants to pay for projects and time, Golden said in an interview with the Capital Chronicle.

But much of the investment will need to come from residents and property owners in high-risk neighborhoods.

“There are some tough realities that climate change is bringing us, and this is one of them,” he said. “We are facing absolute catastrophe beyond what the state can pay for if we aren’t proactive. Government can’t do this alone.”

The city of Ashland has already invested in getting neighborhoods registered in the Firewise program, and trained volunteers to help with risk assessments and planning.

Golden suggested this should be a model for other communities.

“What I’d like to see is this implemented on the ground by local people,” he said.

Golden also hopes to work with the State Insurance Commissioner to make it “as probable as possible” that certification would lead to favorable treatment by insurance companies, such as lower premiums, or the guarantee that policies can be renewed at reasonable rates.

Andrew Stolfi, insurance commissioner at the Oregon Department of Business and Consumer Services, discussed plans at Thursday’s meeting for legislation to require that insurers consider investments that property owners make in defensible space and home hardening efforts when assigning a risk rating and in underwriting criteria.

Golden said he hoped lower premiums or insurance rates would incentivize property owners to take proactive measures, including creating Firewise Neighborhoods.

What remains to be seen is the state’s authority to push the insurance industry in that direction, he said.

“I imagine we’ll see court cases over it, but we need their partnership,” he said.

—This story originally appeared at Oregon Capital Chronicle. Reprinted under a Creative Commons license.

Amanda Loman/ Oregon