Source Weekly October 3, 2024

EDITOR’S NOTE:

OR 97703

t. 541-383-0800 bendsource.com info@bendsource.com

INSIDE THIS ISSUE:

EDITOR

Nicole Vulcan - editor@bendsource.com

REPORTER

Julianna LaFollette- reporter@bendsource.com

FEATURES AND INVESTIGATIVE REPORTER

Jennifer Baires - features@layitoutfoundation.org

REPORTER / CALENDAR EDITOR

Savannah Mendoza - calendar@bendsource.com

MUSIC WRITER

Chris Young - music@bendsource.com

COPY EDITOR Richard Sitts

FREELANCERS

Jared Rasic, Jessica Sanchez-Millar, Burt Gershater, Cassie Clemans

SYNDICATED CONTENT

Amy Alkon, Rob Brezsney, Brendan Emmett Quigley, Jen Sorensen, Pearl Stark, Tom Tomorrow, Matt Wuerker

PRODUCTION MANAGER / ART DIRECTOR

Jennifer Galler - production@bendsource.com

GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Ben Irish - design@bendsource.com

SALES DIRECTOR

Ashley Sarvis

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES

Ban Tat, Chad Barnes

advertise@bendsource.com

DISTRIBUTION MANAGER

Sean Switzer

CONTROLLER

Angela Switzer - angela@bendsource.com

PUBLISHER

Aaron Switzer - aaron@bendsource.com

WILD CARD

Paul Butler

NATIONAL ADVERTISING

Alternative Weekly Network 916-551-1770

Election season is in full swing, and here at the Source Weekly, we’ve been bringing you a steady stream of news and endorsements for measures and races we think are important for you over the past several weeks. That steady stream will turn into a river next week, when we’ll publish a host of new endorsements. The process will culminate with our Election Issue on Oct. 24, where we’ll recap all of the races in one handy place. We hope you use our stories and endorsements as just parts of your research into the candidates and issues! Along those lines, we’ve been closely following the latest in the documents case involving one of the candidates for Deschutes County Sheriff, and have an update in this week’s News. For day-to-day updates on that developing story, visit bendsource.com, or sign up for our daily newsletter, the Cascades Reader, where we publish the very latest news from our reporters every day. Sign up at bendsource.com/newsletters. Thanks for reading!

LIGHTMETER:

Thank you so much @savannahkaree for capturing this fun evening at @barrbcbend and for all of the local shops, models and everyone who made the fashion show happen. We appreciate you! 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.

Last week we held a fashion show in partnership with Bar RBC to bring the fall outfits featured in our Fall Arts and Style issue to life!

OPINION

Vote Anthony Broadman for Oregon Senate 27

Listen to candidates Michael Summers (R) and Anthony Broadman (D), who are running for Oregon’s Senate 27 seat, and at broad brush, it might be hard to distinguish between them. Both see housing and housing affordability as the top issues for this campaign. Both talk about the need to adequately fund schools. Both want to see more geographic equity in Oregon’s transportation funding. Both are known quantities in their respective communities — current elected officials serving with fairness and professionalism.

But it’s in the details where the differences bear out. On the topic of housing, for example, Summers spoke of supporting ADUs in the rural parts of the county as a solution for building housing supply — something that, as Broadman then detailed, is actually already in place through 2019’s HB 2001. Deschutes County passed new rules in November that allowed rural landowners to apply for ADU permits.

Broadman then detailed other bills he’s helped work on to increase available land, including HB 3318, which allowed Bend a one-time expansion of its urban growth boundary to build more affordable and workforce housing. Since that bill was co-sponsored by Republican Sen. Tim Knopp, it could have been low-hanging fruit for Summers to cite this bill as an example of the bipartisan work he'd also do to increase housing supply.

To put it plainly, Broadman is simply more prepared to hit the ground running in this important role for Central Oregon. He’s more versed in the issues,

and more solutions oriented.

While Summers is an amiable candidate who touts his willingness to work across the aisle, there appear to be limits to that. Case in point: his stance on the issue of walkouts.

This particular election, perhaps more than most, is something of a referendum on the Senate Republican walkouts that occurred over several legislative sessions. Outgoing Sen. Knopp, the Senate minority leader with a fine measure of power in Salem, gambled with his legislative career by participating in a walkout, and is now ineligible to run this term. Losing Knopp is a big loss for Republicans in the Legislature and the constituency he represents. Voters want to hire people who are committed to doing their jobs and can stay in that job. Broadman was clear that walkouts were wrong when Democrats participated in them more than two decades ago and opposes them now. Summers gave a less-definite answer, calling for more bipartisanship in the Legislature — fair — but did not answer the question definitively on an issue that is central to the campaign. We believe voters want to see a candidate who’s seeking to take Knopp’s place denounce walkouts. As much as we’d like to see an Oregon where this isn’t a big issue in a race, in this case, it is. Even while he disclosed that Knopp asked him to run for this seat, Summers had an opportunity to distance himself from the type of partisanship that shut down important work in the Legislature, which had very real impacts on Oregonians.

For Oregon Senate 27, vote Anthony Broadman.

Letters

RE: “ON THE OUTSKIRTS,” FEATURE 9/19

Just read the "On the Outskirts" article ... nicely written and sadly showing that what we have dealing with this continually growing problem is a handful of politicians (or wannabes) with no valuable first-hand real-world leadership experience whose primary goal is re-election or getting elected.

Doesn’t that read like what we see in Salem and DC? What is lacking is an experienced, proven leader on this problem who has the needed support of all the county’s political and appointed leadership. (Bend, Redmond, Madras, Sunriver, La Pine).

Since our homelessness problem is still growing after many millions of dollars have been spent over the past 5-6 years, it seems apparent that no one with executive leadership who lives in Central Oregon is willing to step up, so let us search America-wide for that individual that not only has a proven track record, the needed experience of dealing with elected officials at all levels and who wants the challenge to create a successful program that can be a model for other communities like the ones in Central Oregon.

One major caveat: this person is entitled to be compensated to a level on par with the highest-paid county officials (maybe higher) and entitled to make hiring decisions without the approval of political leaders. Too much to pay? Then answer this question: what’s it going to cost all of us if the problem continues to escalate versus being successful and smaller in scope and complexity?

Central Oregonians, if we want to successfully address our homeless neighbors, we must wake up, get outside of our traditional political boxes, find the right experienced leadership and then get out of the way.

—Bill Gregoricus

VOTE NO ON FIVE-COMMISSIONER EXPANSION INITIATIVE

Measure 9-173 does not bring about better representation!

To improve representation, a five-commissioner board should be divided into “Districts.” With each member required to be a resident of their district. This would result in each commissioner being directly accountable to 42,000 residents, bring their points of view to the board and have more time to interact with residents of their district.

Districts would be created by an independent body with a design goal of 1/5 of the county population per district.

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!

A periodic review of population shifts for redistricting could be set for every 10 years, by way of example.

Only six of 36 counties in Oregon have five commissioners. Of those six, five have districting. Those five counties range in population from 24,000 to over 800,000. Clackamas County with a population of 420,000 has five at-large commissioners.

Common to the endorsements in favor are more professionalism & better representation. One endorsement in favor even suggests, after passage, move to districts. A south county endorsement expects better representation for them… no guarantee.

On budget for commissioner salaries and benefits. Not a small matter such as one endorsement referred to as “…two more salaries, …that seems a small price to pay here.”

With only six of 36 counties in Oregon having five commissioners, urge petitioners to bring measure back w/ districting, yielding better accountability and representation.

—Norm Ploss

MEASURE 9-173 – IS THE COST OF MORE COMMISSIONERS WORTH THE COST TO DESCHUTES COUNTY RESIDENTS?

Deschutes County Measure 9-173 is on the November 5, 2024 ballot. This measure, if approved by Deschutes County voters, would expand the Deschutes County Board of Commissioners from three to five elected members. There are numerous arguments, both for and against this measure as documented in the Deschutes County Voters’ Pamphlet.

As a Deschutes County resident and taxpayer, I am always concerned with the cost of living here in beautiful Central Oregon. The voters’ pamphlet along with the accompanying arguments did not appear to clearly present the total costs to Deschutes County taxpayers of increasing the number of County Commissioners from three to five. According to the County of Deschutes, the first-year costs to Deschutes County taxpayers for two additional County Commissioners are approximately $775,000.

This includes salary, benefits, and other costs. The first year includes onetime costs of office space, furniture, computers, phones and other one-time costs. After the first year, the annual cost of two additional County Commissioners is approximately $539,000. So, who pays for these costs? The source of funds to pay for all government is

you, primarily from property taxes as a Deschutes County resident and property owner.

So, is the increase in your property taxes worth two additional County Commissioners?

As a voter, you have the power to decide.

You can find a copy of the Deschutes County Voter’s Pamphlet at the following: https://www.deschutes.org/clerk/ page/november-5-2024-general-election

Please take time to download and read the pamphlet. Please take time to do the research for all the candidates and measures. Vote on November 5th!

— MD Close, CPA (Ret)

NO WAY OUT #2

In the March 27, 2023 Source Weekly I wrote of the lack of egress routes from the Boyd Acres Neighborhood in an emergency. There are no exits to the north or east, only one exit to the west (Cooley) and two to the south (Boyd Acres and 18th). The exits to the south come out on Empire, a mostly two-lane street. Empire has always been crowded, but because of the new north-end spaghetti bowl, Empire has now become a gridlocked bottleneck. Vehicles back up beyond the Boyd Acres intersection. If we can't get out on a normal day, how will we get out in an emergency? Traffic on two-lane Cooley is going to grow

as a result of the congestion on Empire and the new Costco opening. Again, the issue is the lack of exits from the neighborhood. And now we learn of the likelihood of radioactive Hanford waste traveling through Bend on BNSF tracks, which by the way, had a recent derailment and a wildfire in our neighborhood. Boyd Acres needs additional exits. 18th must be continued north to US-97. Cooley must be improved and continued east to Deschutes Market. And Empire must be fixed, quick.

Letter of the Week:

Thanks for the info, James. Letter of the Week!

—Nicole

Vulcan

—James Scott

Promoting Voting Without an Address

The National Coalition for the Homeless created a campaign to help people experiencing homelessness become registered, active voters. The campaign, “You Don’t Need a Home to Vote,” offers a toolkit on promoting voting access for low-income individuals or people without a home address, to help overcome obstacles that traditionally prevent the population from voting.

According to the National Coalition for the Homeless, low-income voters, and particularly people experiencing homelessness, are consistently one of the most poorly represented groups when it comes to voter turnout.

Nonprofit Holds Event to Introduce Therapeutic Programs

Stirrup Purpose, a nonprofit that provides purpose and healing through equine experiences, is still in its first year of operation and plans to hold an Open House event to inform the community about its various programs.

The nonprofit has three key programs, all of which use horses to help improve an individual’s wellbeing. It offers veteran retreats, where individuals can experience respite, recreation and form relationships through horses, and other therapeutic programs aimed at improving physical and emotional wellbeing.

Stirrup will hold its Open House event on Oct. 5 from noon-6pm, offering demonstrations of its equine assisted services. “Our mission is to help people,” said Penny Campbell, executive director. “The community has a great need for more programs like this, so we’re excited to help.”

- Julianna LaFollette

The number of families who can participate in Oregon’s Children’s Extraordinary Needs program. Nearly 10 times that many are on a waitlist for the program. From the Feature, “New Oregon program pays parents to care for kids with intensive medical, behavioral needs — but few can access it.”

"I do remember my first musical inspiration was Michael J. Fox in 'Back to the Future' as Marty McFly. When I saw him crank that amp and do the Chuck Berry 'Johnny B. Goode’ thing, I was like, 'That is what's up.'"

- Local musician Eric Leadbetter, from the Sound story, “Local Love: A Q/A with Guitar Slinger Eric Leadbetter”

In Oregon House 53 Race, Redmond School Board Director Keri Lopez Challenges Incumbent Emerson Levy

By Julianna LaFollette

Current representative for House District 53, Democrat Emerson Levy, will face off against Republican Keri Lopez, the current director of the Redmond School Board, for the Oregon House seat in the November election.

Lopez, who’s running on the premise of adding balance to the legislature, leaned on her expertise from the Redmond School Board for many regional issues. In discussing school funding during an interview with the Source Weekly, Lopez addressed issues with reading skills and chronic absenteeism.

school system. Some of her main priorities include making sure special education is funded, and addressing absenteeism.

“It’s really hard to get kids into their seats, especially after Covid,” she said. “I’m really proud of the fact that we’ve moved the needle, the Redmond School District, on both of those things,” said Lopez. They did this, she said, with increased accountability while celebrating improvement in students.

Levy, who also focuses a lot of her efforts on the future and safety of children, also hopes to focus efforts on improving the

Levy hopes to continue aligning with the governor's task force, while also listening to teachers on the ground, she said during our interview.

On housing, Lopez said she’d like to see tighter timelines for building homes. “We need to reduce the time it takes to get a permit, from start to finish,” said Lopez. She wants to look at why the process of building homes takes so long and find a solution to get more houses up.

While adding that she and Lopez align on many housing issues, Levy said she plans to continue her work on housing packages that will bring more money in for affordable housing. She also hopes to look at creating more workforce housing and looking at condominium reform. “We think that condos are a big part of the missing middle,” she said.

Brewery Engineer Seeks to Unseat Current Bend City Councilor Megan Perkins

By Julianna LaFollette

Current City Councilor Megan Perkins is running against Nick Cerveny, a veteran and engineer at Deschutes Brewery. The two recently participated in an interview with the Source Weekly, discussing issues they hope to advocate for on the council.

Both candidates spoke of the importance of infrastructure funding, addressing houselessness and managing water resources. Both also spoke a lot about housing, and the need for more affordable options in the City of Bend.

Houseless Response Office as evidence of her commitment to addressing that major community problem.

Perkins celebrated the current council’s success in adding affordable housing and adding shelter capacity, but noted that there’s still more work to do. The City has done a great job working with developers, she said, and she hopes to continue to streamline the process of building more affordable homes, making it more efficient. She also touted her work on the Coordinated

Cerveny also discussed the need for more housing, and if elected, said he would advocate for adding all types of housing. He hopes to do this through easing burdens on developers and using more local developers in the homebuilding process.

When it comes to infrastructure funding, Perkins highlighted the work the council has done to pursue grants for things like the Hawthorne Bridge. She added that she has and will continue to advocate for more money from the state to help with getting infrastructure projects done.

Cerveny touched on the importance of some infrastructure projects, but said he’s fearful of pushing people on bikes that “shouldn’t be there.” He hopes to find better funding mechanisms to make the roads safer.

Keri Lopez

Megan Perkins

Nick Cerveny

Emerson Levy

Photos courtesy of candidates

Photos courtesy of candidates

City Committee Opposes Proposed Camping Code Change

Bend’s Human Rights and Equity Commission asks the City Council to reconsider proposed changes for those sheltering in vehicles

By Julianna LaFollette

Alocal committee and members of a service nonprofit are urging the Bend City Council to reconsider a planned action that could create heightened restrictions for sheltering in vehicles. The proposed code changes would require vehicles to move a defined distance after 24 hours, a contrast from its current code, which requires vehicles to move after three days.

Ahead of an Oct. 2 City Council meeting, in which councilors will hold a public hearing regarding its proposed code changes, the City of Bend’s Human Rights and Equity Commission is the latest to express its opposition to the code change.

On Sept. 25, HREC announced its plans to send a letter to city councilors, sharing their concerns about the code and urging councilors to consider their recommendation. They submitted a letter to council on Sept. 29, according to Andrés Portela, the City’s equity and inclusion director.

“It is important that, given this humanitarian situation is present and not likely to diminish any time soon within our city limits, that the city works to provide equal access and treatment to all persons regardless of their current housing (e.g. houseless, housed, etc.), economic, or other social status,” read a statement from the memo.

According to city staff members, the current rules are tied to the City’s parking code, which creates some confusion due to inconsistencies between vehicle and tent camping.

These proposed changes would more clearly align restrictions for vehicle camping with tent camping, requiring vehicles to move a defined distance after 24 hours, prohibit camping near residential uses and shelters and add a density limit of no more than three vehicle camps per block.

According to City Attorney Ian Leitheiser at an August council meeting, certain caveats to the current, and proposed rules, include a notice period that allows for more leniency. Prior to requiring a tent or vehicle to move after the set timeframe, the City provides a minimum 72-hour notice to everyone that would be affected, with only some exceptions.

Understanding this, members of HREC said they still believe the City should take another look at its proposed changes, making four recommendations for the City to consider.

The first recommendation is that city codes are enforced in a way that treats all people with dignity and without discrimination, regardless of socioeconomic status – a tenet for the work that HREC does.

The committee’s next recommendation is

specific to the proposed time restriction, advising councilors to not make changes to the current code.

“Any enforced move within a timeframe of less than 72 hours could result in the individual being upended from whatever stability they have, possibly putting their life and property in danger. Therefore, it is our recommendation that the timeframe for vehicle camping remain 72 hours,” read a statement.

The recommendation addresses the City’s desire to provide more consistency across the camping codes, and states that any changes should be to amend the non-vehicle camping timeframe from 24 to 72 hours.

The last recommendation, if the City decides it wants to approve the changes, is to encourage the increase of safe parking options and communicate the code changes as broadly as possible to the houseless population.

“The HREC deems that the issues discussed in this memorandum are, at their core, human rights issues and any amendments made to existing camping and parking codes may have far-reaching impacts on an individual’s health, safety, and well-being,” read the HREC letter.

Service Provider Chuck Hemmingway with Home More Network told the Source Weekly in an email that he, too, sent a letter in opposition to the code changes.

His organization sent a letter urging the Council to change its mind, pointing to specific complications and violations of City policies regarding houselessness and public health, safety and welfare. Hemmingway also attended the Sept. 25 HREC meeting, sharing his concerns about the timeframe with the members.

Hemmingway and Jessica Gamble, executive director of Home More Network, requested a meeting with city staff and service providers in their letter, to discuss the added complications of the prospective code changes.

The two claimed that the proposed timeframe would make the work of service providers harder and cause more hardship for those living in shelters, as they need more time to move, due to their specific circumstances.

The City will consider the code amendments and hold a public hearing to listen to residents on the proposed changes at the Oct. 2 Council meeting.

Sheriff Candidate Kent Vander Kamp’s Personnel Records from a California Police Department Released to Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office

DCSO now knows why Vander Kamp was terminated in the mid-’90s from the La Mesa police department in California

By Jennifer Baires

Amonths-long lawsuit brought by the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office against the City of La Mesa, California, ended last month with La Mesa releasing the personnel records for Sgt. Kent Vander Kamp, a candidate for DCSO’s top spot. The release follows a public records request by DCSO to obtain Vander Kamp’s personnel file after DCSO learned he had worked at La Mesa PD, a position Vander Kamp did not disclose on his 2004 application at DCSO, according to court documents. Court records show that Vander Kamp was a part-time reserve officer from 1995-1997 at La Mesa PD.

Cory Briggs, attorney for DCSO in the case against La Mesa, confirmed that his office received the “full file” from the city. Staff at La Mesa’s city attorney’s office also confirmed that the personnel records were sent to Briggs’ office after a Sept. 13 hearing in San Diego Superior Court. What is in the file remains unknown to the public. However, in his declaration to the court, Briggs argued that Vander Kamp was discharged for cause following an internal investigation and that the results were kept by La Mesa as a permanent record, per its policy, and should be made public.

At the Sept. 13 hearing, Jude Loren Freestone confirmed his earlier tentative ruling “to grant Plaintiff/Petitioner Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office’s motion for disclosure,” and that Vander Kamp’s waiver to have previous employment information disclosed to DCSO when applying to the office was valid in this case, according to court documents. The court ruled that La Mesa was to provide the documents by Monday, Sept. 16.

The Source Weekly obtained a copy of email correspondence to Briggs from La Mesa’s attorney on the case, Cory Lacy, indicating attached personnel documents. According to the titles of the attachments in the email, these included multiple memos about Vander Kamp from January 1996. The Source did not receive a copy of the files and a public records request to the City of La Mesa is pending.

Vander Kamp previously said he would make the personnel records public, but his attorney says that despite requesting a copy in August, Vander Kamp has not received the file in question. Calls and emails to Vander Kamp have not been returned.

Retiring Sheriff Shane Nelson initiated an internal investigation into Vander Kamp earlier this year following a complaint against him by Mandi Puckett, former executive director at CLEAR Alliance. A tort claim notice filed by Vander Kamp on Sept. 4 stated that he was looking into filing a complaint for discrimination and political retaliation against him. Nelson is on the record as supporting the other candidate for sheriff, William Bailey, and has a history of accusations by former employees of similar intimidation.

—This story is powered by the Lay It Out Foundation, the nonprofit with a mission of promoting deep reporting and investigative journalism in Central Oregon. Learn more and be part of this important work by visiting layitoutfoundation.org.

Julianna LaFollette

First

Celebration with the Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs at OSU-Cascades

osucascades.edu/first-peoples-celebration

1 p.m.

Tribal Crafts and Artistry

Native Artists and Culture Bearers from the Tananáwit Artists Community of Warm Springs.

4:30 p.m.

Round Dance with the Black Lodge Singers

A Native American, Grammy-nominated drum group led by Kenny Scabby Robe of the Blackfeet Nation.

2 p.m.

Showcase of Traditional Regalia, Native Dancing Preceded by an Opening Ceremony and Invocation.

6 p.m.

Indigenous Dinner

Native food specialties prepared by Warm Springs-based Twisted Teepee. $25 per person Registration required.

La transformación de un motel añadirá 76 viviendas de

Por Julianna LaFollette

El 1 de octubre, un nuevo proyecto de realojamiento con apoyo situado en el renovado Old Mill and Suites de la calle 3 de Bend empezará a acoger a residentes que antes no tenían vivienda. Este proyecto tan esperado creará 76 nuevas viviendas y ofrecerá estancias más largas y servicios de apoyo a las personas alojadas en ellas.

The Old Mill and Suites albergará a personas sin techo, dando prioridad a las que sean vulnerables desde el punto de vista médico, a los jóvenes LGBTQ+ y a la comunidad BIPOC. Según un comunicado de prensa, el proyecto recibió financiación original de la orden ejecutiva del gobernador Kotek y HB 5019, para hacer frente a la crisis de vivienda y falta de vivienda del estado.

Las personas serán colocadas en el proyecto de vivienda a través del Sistema de Entrada Coordinada de la región, una lista que ayuda a conectar a las personas sin hogar con los recursos o viviendas que mejor se adapten a sus necesidades. Las personas entran en el CES tras completar una evaluación y trabajar con un proveedor de servicios de la región.

Este proyecto fue una asociación comunitaria entre el Consejo Intergubernamental de Oregón Central, el Grupo de Coordinación Multiagencia, la ciudad de Bend, Fortify Holdings y R&H Construction.

En febrero de 2021, la ciudad de Bend trató de adquirir el Old Mill and Suites con fondos puestos a disposición a través del Proyecto Llave en Mano, un programa estatal que financiaba la compra y renovación de moteles para convertirlos en refugios y ayudar así a abordar el problema de las personas sin hogar. Sin embargo, tras realizar un estudio de viabilidad que demostró que el edificio no era adecuado para el proyecto, la ciudad abandonó sus planes y adquirió en su lugar el Bend Value Inn, que ahora es el Stepping Stone Shelter, con 28 unidades.

En octubre de 2021, Fortify, una empresa de Portland especializada en convertir hoteles y moteles en apartamentos, compró el Old Mill and Suites por 4,5 millones de dólares, para ayudar a transformar las unidades en apartamentos habitables mediante asociaciones comunitarias.

Según Tammy Baney, Directora Ejecutiva del COIC, el establecimiento necesitaba una renovación completa, lo que llevó cierto tiempo. «Podríamos haber abierto en junio, pero por razones de seguridad de un sitio de construcción activa, nosotros como una

comunidad determinó que sería mejor seguir adelante y abrir cuando está totalmente terminado», dijo Baney en una reunión de agosto 15 Coordinated Houseless Response Office. - Traducido por DeepL

Julianna LaFollette

New Oregon program pays parents to care for kids

with intensive medical, behavioral needs — but few can access it

Parents say limited pay, long waitlist are restricting the program’s effectiveness

By Kaylee Tornay / InvestigateWest

Calli Ross’s son Tennyson was assigned a number this summer. It’s 136.

So was Paige Hall’s son James. He’s 156. And Shasta Kearns Moore’s son Malachi is 1,151.

The numbers, which top out at 1,349, mark the spot that each boy occupies on the waitlist to qualify for a new Medicaid program in Oregon: the Children’s Extraordinary Needs waiver, which allows parents to be paid for up to 20 hours of care per week that they provide for their children with severe disabilities. Just 155 families at a time can participate, though 10 times as many qualify.

That means hundreds of families face a potentially yearslong wait to see if their child’s name will come up. In the meantime, those parents face a difficult but familiar choice: to keep seeking outside help that the state will pay for, which is in short supply and not always suited to their children’s needs, or to provide the care themselves, unpaid.

The Children’s Extraordinary Needs program, which kicked off July 1, represents a historic step forward to the parents who have pushed for this compensation. But the rollout thus far has also exposed major limitations, parents say.

The design of the program pays for only a fraction of the hours that many parents spend caring for their children, and a fraction of the hours that the state has agreed their children are legally entitled to. Others worry the income from the waiver would be enough to kick them off programs they rely on for food and housing assistance, but would not make up the difference if they lost those benefits. A third of the families selected in the original lottery have decided not to participate, according to the Oregon Department of Human Services, and advocates say these limitations are often why.

“It really keeps families in poverty, and we’re afraid that it’s almost set up like that to fail,” Ross said. “You have a bunch of people saying, ‘We can’t actually afford to be part of this program,’ but they’re terrified not to be a part, because if they don’t, they get put to the end of the waitlist.”

These parents aren’t new to supplying this care, which extends well beyond the typical demands of child-rearing. Ross, Hall, Kearns Moore and many others whose children qualify for the program have already logged thousands of hours standing in as respiratory therapists, occupational therapists, night nurses and mental health clinicians. They maintain the tracheostomies

and ventilators that help their children breathe, manage at-home physical therapies and administer the medications that keep their children’s seizures at bay, help regulate their moods and ensure they can sleep. Many have sacrificed their careers and stay up throughout the night because they can’t find enough qualified professionals to provide these services.

The concept of paying parents to do this type of work also isn’t new. Parents become eligible for state pay once their children turn 18. And during the pandemic, the state began allowing parents of minor children to be paid for caregiving, with no limits on the hours, in order to minimize the risk of infection spread from outside workers entering their homes. It was widely popular, according to parents’ testimonies before the Oregon Legislature in 2023.

But the Children’s Extraordinary Needs program is limited by a $7.7 million annual budget. Parents and a few lawmakers will try to change that in the upcoming legislative session. “Tensy’s Law,” named after Ross’ son, would expand the paid parent benefit to all eligible children. It does not yet have a cost estimate.

“If the children and the families need these services, we need to help them access the care that they need,”

said state Sen. Deb Patterson (D-Salem), who is cosponsoring the legislation. “This is not just watching your kids and making sure they're fed and get to school on time. This is the work of providing medical and educational support for hours and hours on end forever. It’s not like typical parenting in any way, shape or form.”

A thin lifeline

As a single parent, Paige Hall has primary custody of her son James, 12, who has drug-resistant epilepsy and nonverbal autism. She spends hours each day keeping him healthy and safe.

As is the case for many families whose children experience disabilities, that work is varied and complex. Hall works with him on self-regulation, using an adaptive communication device and training with his service dog. Sometimes, they’ve had support from outside certified workers that James was comfortable with. But many other workers have not shown up when they’re scheduled or haven’t been a good fit for James. Hall is the one who knows him best and is best equipped to care for him, she said. She was laid off from her part-time job during the pandemic. Since then, she’s worked mostly odd jobs, including

Photos by Leah Nash /

Shasta Kearns Moore administers fluids through a feeding tube to her son Malachi, who requires daily medical care after being born prematurely at 29 weeks. Malachi has had outside care workers, but says he prefers his mother to care for him because she knows him best.

as a paid part-time caregiver for another child with disabilities. James’ Social Security benefits and food stamps help ensure they have a roof over their head and enough to eat.

Being paid for his care during the pandemic took a huge weight off her mind, she said.

“That was life-altering,” she said. “For the first time in my child’s life, I wasn’t just completely stressed out about if his needs were being met, if he was being taken care of appropriately, if I could afford to feed him or myself.”

James was healthier, too, she said. While he had previously been hospitalized at least once a month, during the two years his mother was paid for caring for him, he had only one unscheduled hospitalization, she said.

“I didn’t realize how bad it was until I got put into a place where we felt secure and we felt safe and where we could really evaluate what was working and what wasn’t working,” she said. “That should always be the bare minimum.”

In an ironic twist, however, Hall is unsure whether she would participate in the Children’s Extraordinary Needs program if given the option.

That’s because she has estimated that the money would raise their income enough to make them ineligible for food stamps. But 20 hours a week at $20-$22 an hour wouldn’t be enough to replace what food assistance provides for them.

Paige said the 20-hour cap feels like “a slap in the face.”

“That’s not replacing the full-time job that people are giving up” to care for their children, she said.

Waiting and watching

With 53 families turning down the new waiver so far, the waitlist has already moved forward, said Tom Mayhall Rastrelli, communications officer for the Oregon Department of Human Services.

But for Kearns Moore’s son Malachi, who is 14, the wait could still be years.

Kearns Moore said she had braced herself for her son to be waitlisted. But seeing that he was behind at least 1,000 other children was still a “gut punch,” she said.

“I had written off that my family would ever benefit,” she said. “But seeing it in black and white that my child is never going to get a spot without the program expanding, my heart sank.”

In an email, Mayhall Rastrelli said the department has heard from many families frustrated with the long wait and with challenges in finding services for their children.

In the meantime, officials within the state disability services office say they are collecting data throughout the next year to help lawmakers track participation and costs associated with the program. That includes a survey of the families who turn down the benefit.

Advocates for Disability Supports, a parent advocacy group that Kearns Moore and Ross help lead, is collecting data of its own. A survey of about 7% of eligible families found that some expected positive outcomes from participating: more than half said they could leave

public assistance programs with the pay they’d receive from the program. The survey also found 91% of families were either unable to find enough professionals to provide for all the hours their children were allocated, or were choosing not to fill those hours with outside workers, choosing unpaid caregivers, such as parents, instead.

“We’re promising families support that isn’t real,” Kearns Moore said. “We’re saying, ‘Your child deserves this many hours of support,’ and looking the other way on the fact there is nobody to fill those hours.”

Hopes for the future

When Senate Bill 91 was signed into law, Ross was hopeful that it was a step in the right direction.

But then came the limited funding from the state. And then came the design that the Department of Human Services created, which sought to reach more families by capping the available hours per week.

Now, a year and a half later, Ross is gearing up for another push in the Legislature to accomplish what advocates had hoped the 2023 law was going to accomplish. This summer, advocates decided to name the law after her 9-year-old son.

“All we’re asking with Tensy’s Law, at the very heart of it, is to do what they said they were going to do,” she said. “Have these highest-need children have the ability to pick their parent as their caregiver. Enforce a law that you’ve already passed.”

Ross and other advocates pushed for a bill with similar intent as Tensy’s Law this past legislative session. It died in the appropriations committee.

The question of cost is at the center of the debate. Opponents say the state can’t afford to cover all the hours of care that parents are providing.

The fiscal analysis for the 2024 bill that sought to make pay available to all parent caregivers of high-needs children

projected the cost to be around $174 million from 2025-2027, 57% of which would come from federal matching funds. Additional personnel to support that at the Oregon Department of Human Services would cost another $3.5 million, according to the estimate.

However, advocates point out that the hours the state is talking about paying for were already promised to their children. But the Legislature budgets for the services their children need based on the hours that are used, not what they are owed, which sets the system up to be underfunded and to depend on unpaid parent labor, they said.

Sen. Cedric Hayden, (R-Fall Creek), echoed this opinion during the 2024 legislative session.

“We’re not saying it wouldn’t cost more, but the state has signed up through their waiver to this obligation and they’re, in my opinion, not meeting their obligation,” he said in a Feb. 24 meeting of the Senate Health Care Committee.

Meanwhile, the state is continuing to invest in workforce development and retention initiatives to make services more accessible to families. This includes $47 million worth of COVID-19 relief funds that went to the Oregon Department of Human Services. That money was funneled into programs focusing on increasing the rural workforce, grants for incentive payments to attract workers, paying for completing specialized training, and “targeted marketing to attract workers,” Mayhall Rastrelli said.

Ross said it doesn’t have to be so complicated.

“We’re sitting here like, ‘Just pay parents,’” she said. “We’re the workforce.”

—InvestigateWest (invw.org) is an independent news nonprofit dedicated to investigative journalism in the Pacific Northwest. Reporter Kaylee Tornay covers labor, youth and health care issues. Reach her at 503-877-4108 or kaylee@invw.org. On Twitter @ka_tornay.

A shelf at Shasta Kearns Moore’s home holds the various medical supplies that her son Malachi requires throughout the day.

Shasta Kearns Moore helps lead the group Advocates for Disability Supports, which is pushing for parents to be paid for the complex care they provide for their children who have intensive medical and behavioral health needs. On July 1, a new program made pay available to parents of 155 of these children at a time, though more than 1,500 may qualify.

SOURCE PICKS

WEDNESDAY 10/02

GO CLEAN ENERGY CONFERENCE

DISCOVER CLEAN ENERGY

The Go Clean Energy Conference is an all-day event offering actionable insights into clean energy, sustainable building, energy efficiency, EV charging and electrification. Featuring keynotes from Sen. Ron Wyden and climate scientist Maya Buchanan. Wed., Oct. 2, 8:30am-4pm at Central Oregon Community College. 2600 NW College Way, Bend. Free.

THURSDAY 10/03

MISSION OF DISCOVERY WITH DR. ELLEN OCHOA

FIRST LATINA IN SPACE

The first Latina in space, Dr. Ellen Ochoa has charted an inspiring path as a researcher, inventor, astronaut with four missions and director of NASA’s Johnson Space Center. Get inspiration and insight as Ochoa speaks about the frontiers of space and the importance of breaking barriers. Thu., Oct. 3, 7-8:30pm at Tower Theatre. 835 NW Wall St., Bend. $20.

FRESH HOPS ON THE POND

BREWS AND MUSIC ALL DAY

The tradition lives on with Bend Brewing Company’s Fresh Hops on the Pond. The annual event is set to have live music all day long and thirst-quenching fresh hop beers from over 20 breweries. Fri., Oct. 4, 11am-8pm at Bend Brewing Company. 1019 NW Brooks St., Bend. Free.

WILD & SCENIC FILM FESTIVAL

AN EVENING OF CAPTIVATING SHORT FILMS

Enjoy an evening of captivating short films that addresses pressing environmental issues, highlights incredible activists around the world and celebrates the beauty of our planet. The film festival features an in-person show as well as a virtual version streamed online. Join the Oregon Natural Desert Association for a night of inspiration and discovery. Fri., Oct. 4, 6-8:30pm at Tower Theatre. 835 NW Wall St., Bend. $10-$14.

HEAVEN ZEST OF INDUBIOUS

A CELEBRATION OF LIFE THROUGH MUSIC Embark on a night of celebration, gratitude and unforgettable music as Heaven Zest (Evan Burton), founding member of the band Indubious and cherished Bend local, returns to the stage after Burton’s

FRIDAY 10/04 + SATURDAY 10/05

THE LAUNCH AT DISCOVERY CORNER

A GRAND OPENING CELEBRATION

Celebrate the Discovery Corner plaza’s grand opening as the hub and heart of the neighborhood. The fun-filled weekend will feature a stellar drone show, live music, food trucks, open house tours and a special visit from Dr. Ellen Ochoa. The two-day celebration kicks off Friday night and ends on Saturday. Fri., Oct. 4, 5:30-8pm and Sat., Oct. 5, 10am-2pm at Discovery Corner Plaza. 1125 NW Ochoa Dr., Bend. Free.

LAKE CREEK TRAIL HIKE

AN AUTUMN ADVENTURE

Join the Deschutes Land Trust and hike leader David Weilmuenster for a fall hike on the Lake Creek Trail at the Metolius Preserve. Through this autumn adventure you’ll hike through the Preserve’s ponderosa forests and follow Lake Creek on the way to Suttle Lake and learn about the fascinating plant life of the Metolius region along the way. Sat., Oct. 5, 10am-1pm at Metolius Preserve. Near Camp Sherman in Sisters. Free.

SATURDAY 10/05

BEND MOONLIGHT MARKET

VENDORS, FOOD, BOOZE + MORE!

Are you ready to get your scare on? Check out the Bend Moonlight Market for a hauntingly good time and browse through a variety of vendors, delight in food, booze, tarot, tattoos and more. DJ Sorski provides live tracks from 7-9pm. Dress in costume if you dare. The Moonlight Market is back and it’s going to be a graveyard smash. Sat., Oct. 5, 4-11pm at Open Space Event Studios. 220 NE Lafayette Ave., Bend. Free.

$5 YOGA CLASSES

BEND HOT YOGA DEAL

Bend Hot Yoga is offering a full day of $5 yoga classes in honor of celebrating its half-birthday. There are 14 classes on the schedule with a variety of teachers and styles from hot vinyasa and yogalates to a peaceful flow. Bring a mat or rent one of theirs, and sign up to snag a spot for this special one-day deal. Sun., Oct. 6, 6:30am-8pm at Bend Hot Yoga. 1230 NE 3rd St. UnitA230, Bend. $5.

Oregon Natural Desert Association

Charlotte Gilbride

Packy Deenihan

S SOUND

Local Love: A Q/A with Guitar Slinger Eric Leadbetter

Full-time musician and frontman of Leadbetter Band chats about his approach to making music, gives advice to younger artists and reveals his earliest inspiration:

Marty McFly.

By Chris Young

“ Igrew up working on my family's cattle ranch, and so every time I got done working, I'd run back to my grandpa's house and I'd plug in my amplifier and crank my little boom box that I had — some Allman Brothers, Santana, Grateful Dead, Hendrix — and I would try and play along with it, jam along with it, and try to see if I could absorb any of those licks,” Eric Leadbetter tells. He loved Creedence and The Doors, teaching himself how to play guitar by ear. Twenty-six years later, he’s still at it, rocking stages large and small all over Central Oregon and the Pacific Northwest with various configurations — solo, as a duo or his steadfast trio with Leadbetter on guitar and vocals, Aaron Moore on bass and vocals and Kaleb Kelleher on drums and backup vocals.

On Oct. 12 at Silver Moon Brewing, “it's an evening with Leadbetter Band, and then we're gonna have special guest Conner Bennett on guitar and vocals,” Leadbetter says. “Maybe once or twice a year we have Conner Bennett guest with us, and when he guests we do a bunch of his original songs.”

After a busy summer, Leadbetter spoke with the Source about the show. Answers have been edited for brevity and clarity.

Source Weekly: You’re playing Silver Moon on Oct. 12. What’s the occasion?

Eric Leadbetter: Silver Moon’s got a lot of roots for me. It was my first gig in Bend back in 2008 when I was touring through. I did a music series there for a couple years on Tuesday nights. I've had three album release parties there. So, it's definitely just one of those places, like my home gig in a lot of ways.

SW: How would you define your sound?

EL: It's an eclectic melting pot of everything that I like to listen to. It's influenced by classic rock vibes, old soul music, Motown, some jam band, some hard rock, some blues, some funk. It's got a lot of different elements, and I think that's why I love playing our music, because there's so much variety one song to the next. It's like a completely different story.

SW: You’re a band leader and lead guitar player. What’s your approach to music?

EL: My approach at the end of the day is always honor and serve the song. If the song calls for no guitar solos and no noodling around, then I don't do it. [Laughs] Some songs really want that, they want that extra lead guitar push. Some of them just want to uplift that melody of the voice. Finding the role of the guitar

as a songwriter and as an electric guitar player, especially, has been a great challenge for me to find out when not to play a note, and when to let that melody be forefront. That's been a great challenge for me to step back and just let the melody do the talking.

SW: Yeah, sometimes you need to strip it back to the core elements.

EL: Exactly. You know, they say everything we needed to learn, we learned in kindergarten. I kind of feel like that's true with music, too. It all boils down to those seven notes. It's this endless journey, this endless well of knowledge, and so it's easy to get excited and over complicate it. But it's the same thing with life: If we get too much on our plate, if we get too overwhelmed, then [we] seem anxious or stressed out — [we] don’t have quite the right balance. Long story short, that's what I'm seeking in my songwriting.

EL: I do consider myself successful in the fact that I'm paying my bills and supporting my family with music. I'm so blessed and grateful, without a doubt. Does that mean that I've got it made? It depends on who you ask. If you ask me, I'd say I feel like I got it made. To get to a point where you can just financially support yourself, that's incredible, and the only way you're going to get there is by working really hard on your music. Don't take it for granted. Don't take your bandmates for granted. Don't take your opportunities for granted. Take it all in stride and show up with gratitude. And I feel like that right there will be contagious, and opportunities just manifest and manifest and manifest if you come from a gratitude-centered viewpoint.

SW: You’ve been in Bend since 2016. What makes this music scene feel like home?

SW: What’s your earliest musical memory?

EL: My mom. She would play the piano and she could sight read, and I just loved hearing her sing along with the piano. We didn't go to a lot of shows when I was a kid because I was living out on the ranch, pretty isolated. But I do remember my first musical inspiration was Michael J. Fox in “Back to the Future” as Marty McFly. When I saw him crank that amp and do the Chuck Berry “Johnny B. Goode” thing, I was like, “That is what's up.” And the funny thing is, now I have a fouryear-old and he is obsessed with “Back to the Future,” and he loves that song. He's choreographed the entire sequence, and he's jumping around and dancing.

SW: Your last record, “Cake,” came out in 2023. What have you been working on since?

EL: I've been writing and we're ready for the next album. We're kind of re-gelling after quite a busy summer of just viciously gigging, touring a lot regionally. We're trying to reinvent our approach to recording music. We're not sure if that's going to be releasing singles or an album, but I will say, personally, I would rather release an album next year because we have enough material for probably three or four albums ready to go.

SW: You also give guitar lessons and teach songwriting. Do you have any advice for younger musicians?

EL: One thing I absolutely cherish about the Central Oregon music scene is that it's not competitive, in a sense. Of course, there's always going to be some competition — people at different levels in their career. But overall, I'd say there's so much support from other musicians, from other booking agents, from other promotion companies — the list goes on and on. The musicians themselves are very supportive and cross pollinating.

SW: Your bio says you have “a vast collection of classic vinyl.” What’s your most prized record?

EL: I don't really have a most prized one necessarily, but I love Gov’t Mule and so I have a bunch of Gov’t Mule records. My son loves records too, and we just started his collection. We got him “Moana” on vinyl, which is pretty fun. The vinyl that I've had the longest, since I started collecting when I was 15 years old — I didn't even have a turntable till I was probably 20 — the very first one was Jimi Hendrix “Axis: Bold as

special guest Conner Bennett

CALENDAR

Built upon a foundation of soul, R&B and traditional blues, Ben Rice & The PDX Hustle bring high-energy music to the stage. The band has made the leap from a Northwest act to national and international music stages far and wide. Fri., Oct. 4, 7-10pm at The Belfry.

2 Wednesday

The Yard at Bunk + Brew Jongleur Gems Join Bunk + Brew for an evening of Jongleur Gems in the round featuring Eric Leadbetter and Mark Quon. Each artist (stage spot) plays a song and then passes to the other artist (stage spot). Artists can jam/collaborate together performing both originals and covers. Food and Beverage carts are on-site and minors are allowed. 6-8pm. Free.

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

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

Crosscut Warming Hut No 5 Trace Folk Trio Relax with a pint and enjoy great local music every Wednesday. 6-8pm. Free.

Deschutes Brewery & Public House

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

General Duffy’s Waterhole Wednesday Night Open Mic Join Central Oregon School of Modern Music and General Duffy’s for the Wednesday night Open Mic! Play 3 songs. Groups of up to 3. Sign-up begins at 5:30. Food trucks, 25+ taps, drink specials! 6-9pm. Free.

JC’s Bar & Grill TRIVIA + Wing Wednesday! $.75 cent wing special all day and trivia kicking off at 7:30pm. Don’t forget the infamous “physical” challenge as one of the categories (think musical chairs, limbo, paper airplane throwing etc)! Get a free appetizer by winning that round and happy hour pricing all week for the winning team. 7:30-9:30pm. 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, whichever comes first. 21+. 6:30pm. Free.

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

Oblivion Pour House Last Call Trivia Wednesday Last Call Trivia Wednesdays, bring your smartest friends and win free food and drink. 6:30-8:30pm.

Prost! Bend Trivia Prost! UKB Trivia is now at Prost! Bend on Wednesdays at 7pm! Genuine UKB Trivia is no average trivia night! Meet up with friends, win gift card prizes for top teams! Enjoy Prost’s authentic beer and food menu. Trivia is free to play, with no buy-ins! 7-9pm. Free.

The Dez Lounge DJPK the Live Looper Get down to the groovy looping of DJPK while enjoying NA cocktails, medicinal elixers, charcuterie and desserts. 6-9:30pm. Free.

The Vault Taphouse at Kobold Brewing Trivia Night Trivia Night at The Vault! Come test your knowledge and drink top notch local beer! 6:30-8pm. Free.

Volcanic Theatre Pub The Stews w/ A Collective Subconscious After releasing their debut album, "What Was", in April of 2022, The Stews have been a non-stop touring machine. Playing hundreds of shows a year has allowed them to hone in their musical and songwriting skills alike. With 2023 summer tour sellouts ranging from Washington, DC’s 9:30 Club, Charleston’s Windjammer, New York City’s Bowery Ballroom, and countless more, The Stews have proven that they are a musical force to be reckoned with. 8pm. $18.

3 Thursday

The Ballybogs and Friends Grab a pint, relax and enjoy live music by an amazing group of artists that brings the best Irish trad music in Central Oregon. Every Thursday at The Cellar. 6-8pm. Free.

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

Bend Elks Lodge #1371 Bingo Bingo at the Elk’s Lodge. Win cash prizes. 6-9pm. $23.

Bridge 99 Brewery Trivia Thursday at Bridge 99 Brewery Trivia Thursdays at 6:30pm at Bridge 99 Brewery with Useless Knowledge Bowl. It’s no ordinary trivia night, Team up to win house gift cards! Great brews, cocktails, and more. In-house menu and food truck options available! It’s free to play. Indoor and outdoor seating available. 63063 Layton Ave, Bend. 6:308:30pm. Free.

Bunk+Brew Live Music: Young Guns Music Series Don’t miss Young Guns this Thu., from 7-9 pm! Join Bunk + Brew as Jacob Nelson takes the stage with a powerful performance hosted by Tom Hudson. Enjoy tasty bites from food carts and ice-cold drinks from our beer truck. It’s the perfect night out—don’t miss the action! 7-9pm. Free.

The Yard at Bunk + Brew Young Guns Please join us for a night of song in the round as Young Guns Jacob Nelson and Mason Coats trade songs and stories. 6-8pm. Free.

Dump City Dumplings Local Live music night Local live music showcase at Dump City every Thursday. $1 off beverages and dumplings. 5:30pm. Free.

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

Mountain Burger Greg Botsford - Live @ Mountain Burger Come check out Greg Botsford at Mountain Burger’s Thursday Night Live. 5-7pm. Free.

Pangaea Guild Hall Intro to D&D Workshop Calling all adventurers! Have you wanted to play Dungeons and Dragons but have no idea where to start? Pangaea Guild Hall presents an “Intro to D&D” workshop series hosted by yours truly, Guildmaster Chris! Learn to build and play your own D&D character. Call or email to reserve your spot! 6-9pm. $10.

River’s Place The Abluestics Old time blues and other sonic treats. 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 Lot Paul Eddy Local songsinger sings golden hits through the decades, plus originals. 6-8pm. Free.

Volcanic Theatre Pub Snotty Nose Rez Kids

Snotty Nose Rez Kids tore into the music scene with unmistakeable talent and an unforgettable name. Showing off their lyrical prowess and natural storytelling ability, Yung Trybez and Young D jumpstarted the band with two back-to-back albums in 2017. The follow up album, 2019’s “Trapline,” really launched their career. 8pm. $20.

4 Friday

The Ale Apothecary Tasting Room First Friday w/ Sungrater and Jackrat Fall is here! Help us ring in October with garage/psych rock from Sungrater, cowpunk from Jackrat! Art up on the wall from Kuhl Frames and some goodies available from AD Glass and Design. Don’t miss this killer lineup. Music 6-8pm. Free.

The Commons Cafe & Taproom First Friday Block Party First Friday Downtown Bend! Celebrate local arts and culture by hosting free live music featuring local bands for First Friday Art Walk block party style. Sponsored by Immersions Brewing. Lineup on our website event calendar thecommonsbend.com First Friday of every month, 6-9pm. Free.

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. Hawkeye & Huckleberry Lounge Chained to Stone Come jam with us at one of Bend’s best new venues, the Hawkeye and Huckleberry Lounge, and experience Central Oregon’s premier ‘90s rock band! We tribute Stone Temple Pilots, Nirvana, Alice in Chains, Smashing Pumpkins, Pearl Jam, Silver Chair and more! 8:30-10pm. Free.

Hawthorn Healing Arts Center Hawthorn Healing Arts Center’s First Friday Art Walk Hawthorn Healing Arts Center invites you to an unforgettable evening for the October First Friday Art Walk. This event will be a unique blend of art, music, and community, bringing together creativity, and the warmth of connection. Special guest musicians: The Bend Bhakti Collective Band. Featured artist: Scott Dyer 6-8pm. Free. Big E’s Sports Bar Karaoke Night Central Oregon’s most fun karaoke venue! Karaoke is hosted by A Fine Note Karaoke Too and DJ Jackie J. Delicious food and drink and a friendly staff. Come join the show where you are the star! 8pm. Free.

M&J Tavern Sweet Butter Two servings bring a smooth spread to our table for everyone to enjoy. Come experience the tasty treats of jams, eclectic rhythms and funky fresh sounds to feed your need for fun. 9pm. Free.

Open Space Event Studios NBT Presents: Killah Springz Pop Out NBT Presents Killah Springz Pop Out. Live music featuring NBT’s artists Sho Rilla, Blank Face, and MC Jess. With special guests Lai Tha Jestah, Va$h, Thedreamofficialll, Alyric Redcrane, Colefoy Soaring Eagle, Mason Woodz, and Uncle George. 6:30-10pm. $10.

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

Silver Moon Brewing Matt Braunger - Live In Bend Catch the legendary Matt Braunger live at Silver Moon Brewing on Oct. 4! Raised in Portland, this headlining comedian brings years of TV roles and stand-up expertise. Don’t miss out! 8-9:30pm. $20 - $30.

Volcanic Theatre Pub Heaven Zest of Indubious Heaven Zest is a multi-instrumentalist, producer, live looper, and vocalist, renowned for his spirit-infused messages of magic and love. His unique musical blend navigates through a landscape of genres, including reggae, dub, and EDM, while incorporating tribal rhythms with a distinctive hip-hop essence. Zest excels in creating improvisational pieces that are not only unique but also specifically attuned to the audience, making each performance a singular experience. 8pm. $20.

Courtesy Ben Rice and The PDX Hustle

CALENDAR

5 Saturday

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

Bridge 99 Brewery Live Music Saturday at Bridge 99 Come enjoy live music at Bridge 99 Brewery in NE Bend. Rotating musicians, check our FB for who’s playing! Grab a beer and a pizza and enjoy our amazing local and traveling musicians! Looking for a location to play solo or with a band? Email events@bridge99brewery.com for more information. 6:30-8:30pm. Free.

M&J Tavern Helga, Via for Real & The Low Hums ROCKTOBER is here! Listen to Helga, Via for Real and The Low Hums at M&J Tavern. 9pm. Free.

Northside Bar & Grill Status Fear Classic, alternative, metal and hard rock from Status Fear at Northside Bar & Grill. 8-11pm. Free.

Open Space Event Studios Bend

Moonlight Market Are you ready to get your scare on? Join us for a hauntingly good time as we celebrate the most anticipated market of the year. The Bend Moonlight Market is back, and it’s going to be a graveyard smash! 4-11pm. Free.

Portello Wine and Spirits Live Music: Kelcey Lassen Kelcey Lassen is a musical force known for her enchanting melodies and playful spirit. With a unique blend of folk, pop, and indie influences, her sound radiates warmth and joy! Catch her live at Portello Wind and Spirits this Saturday night. You won’t want to miss her! 6:30-8:30pm. Free.

River’s Place Saturday Jazz Sessions Monkey Mode, Jazz music. 6-8pm. Free.

Tower Theatre Henry Cho Cho’s TV credits include appearances on NBC’s "The Tonight Show", CBS’s "The Late, Late, Show", and NBC’s "Young Comedians Special". He served two years as host of NBC’s "Friday Night Videos" and had many guest roles on various network sitcoms. 7:30-9:30pm.

$41 - $104 (plus $6 Historic Preservation fee).

Velvet One Mad Man Music Spencer Snyder, One Mad Man, loops together multiple instruments to create moody, driven backdrops accompanied by smooth vocals. Hip-hop-style drums drive funk-inspired bass followed by electrifying sounds from his keyboard and guitar. First Saturday of every month, 8-11pm. Free.

Volcanic Theatre Pub Mo Gowda & The Humble w/ Illiterate Light Mo Lowda & the Humble is a self-produced indie rock band hailing from Philadelphia. The band just finished up its fourth LP, to be self-titled and released March 3, 2025 with five singles leading up. Since releasing its debut album in 2013, the band has vastly expanded the sonic exploration of its recorded material whilst developing a dialed-in, yet energetic live show through persistent touring. 8pm. $20.

6 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.

Black Butte Ranch Jazz for an Autumn Afternoon A final Jazz Fling for the summer season at gorgeous BBR. Adam Carlson’s “Portlandia Jazz Quintet." A Portland all-star band plays jazz standards, bop classics. Food and beverage available. Tickets $25 in advance/ 35 at the door. 3-5pm. $25 advance/ $35 at the door.

Bridge 99 Brewery Open Mic Comedy at Bridge 99 Come down and give your friends a laugh! Sign-ups for open mic start at 7pm, show starts at 7:30 pm! Each comedian gets 5 minutes. 1st and 3rd Sunday of every month. Free to attend, and free to participate. 7:30pm. Free.

A GRAND OPENING CELEBRATION, OCTOBER 4 AND 5

Discovery West (on the corner of Skyline Ranch Rd & Ochoa Dr., just west of NorthWest Crossing)

FRIDAY, OCT. 4

5:30-8PM

• Space Walk Open House Tour (homes, townhomes & cottages)

• Tours of Aerie, luxury overnight vacation rentals

• Food & drink

• Giveaways for the kids

• Drone Show, starting between 7:30–8pm

SATURDAY, OCT. 5

10AM-2PM

• Special guest, Dr. Ellen Ochoa, former NASA astronaut (meet & greet from 10am–12pm)

• Living History Fun (passport and prize for kids)

• Food & drink

• Giveaways

• Fun family-friendly activities

• Music

Embark on an out-of-this-world adventure as we celebrate the launch of Discovery Corner, a vibrant community gathering place located in the heart of the Discovery West neighborhood in westside Bend. Join us for a stellar two-day experience full of good food, family fun and an appearance from a space-tacular special guest, all in celebration of our brand new plaza. Visit us at discoverywestbend.com/launch

Rendering of Discovery Corner

CALENDAR EVENTS

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

The Domino Room The Young Dubliners Midtown Events brings you The Young Dubliners! All ages. After 30 years as one of the world’s leading Celtic Rock bands, The Young Dubliners have begun work on their 10th studio album (with longtime producer Irish-born Tim Boland) while still maintaining their busy tour schedule.7:30pm. $30.

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 Oyster Lee Banjo cover solo project. 5-7pm. Free.

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

Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Central OR TRIO CON BRIO COPENHAGEN Opening night of High Desert Chamber Music’s 17th season. This evening is brought to you by Miller Lumber. Join Trio Con Brio and Central Oregon Daily for a pre-concert talk about the program beginning at 3:15pm. Tickets available through HDCM by phone or online. Come hear the music! 4-5:30pm. $10-$48.

Volcanic Theatre Pub Surf Hat Surf Hat is a psych-surf group from Squamish, BC, Canada. Its debut record, “Surf Hat,” has gathered over a million streams and has established a rapidly growing fan-base across North America. The classic power-trio lineup delivers the verby, jangly surf-rock guitar style of modern bands mixed with the sweetly harmonized vocals of beloved classics. 8pm. $12.

Wildwood Bar & Grill Think Wild BINGO at Wildwood Join Think Wild and Wildwood for bingo nights on the first Sunday of the month from 6-8pm! Come support wildlife and win cash and raffle prizes. First Sunday of every month, 6-8pm. Free.

Willamette Valley Vineyards Live Music and Wine Night Come join us for some wine and live Music with If & When band! 3-5pm. Free.

7 Monday

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

The Yard at Bunk + Brew Open Mic Monday Sign-up at 5:30pm. 3 song maximum/ or 15-minute spots. Singles/duos/trios. Food and beverage carts on-site. Originals or covers. Minors welcome. 6-8pm. Free.

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

Elements Public House Open Mic with DMM Music Come jam with some great local musicians and enjoy an evening of music, great food and full bar. Musician sign-up at 6pm. Sound and PA provided by DMM Music LLC Located at the north end of Redmond. An award-winning full bar and great food! 6:30-8:30pm. Free.

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

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

Silver Moon Brewing Beertown Comedy Open Mic Join the #1 Open Mic at Silver Moon Brewing every Monday! Sign-ups at 6:30pm sharp. Perform or watch—maybe even witness a Roast Battle! Plus, opportunities for paid gigs. 6:30-9pm. Free.

The Bend Wine Bar & Winery Tasting Room Bottles and Boards - Game Night Grab your favorite board game or borrow one! Every Monday is Game Night! Pair a bottle of wine with a selection of charcuterie boards and get $5 off Whites or $10 off Reds. Fun times and great wines! Cheers! 2-9pm. Free.

Volcanic Theatre Pub The Reverend Peyton’s Big Damn Band Three time BMA nominee’s The Reverend Peyton’s Big Damn Band is “the greatest front-porch blues band in the world”. They are led by Reverend Peyton, who most consider to be the premier finger picker playing today. 8pm. $20.

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

8 Tuesday

Bangers & Brews Redmond UKB Trivia Tuesdays UKB Trivia Tuesdays 6:30pm start time at Bangers and Brews in Redmond! Join this week for this unique “Live Trivia Game Show.” Meet up to compete for prizes! UKB Trivia is free to play, with no buy-ins. Great menu and beers! 6:30-8:30pm. Free.

Boys & Girls Clubs of Bend Bend Ecstatic

Dance An all-out, full-on, spectacular music and free-form movement journey happens every Tuesday on one of the biggest dance floors in Bend. A no-booze and no-shoes venue. No experience required, no dance instructions given. Just really excellent music curation and a big, clean floor to explore your unique movement across. 7:45-10pm. $15-$25 sliding scale.

Bunk+Brew Trivia: The Four Elements Test your knowledge at Bunk + Brew’s themed trivia night this Tuesday from 7-9pm! This week’s theme: The Four Elements—Wind, Earth, Air, and Fire. Gather your team, grab some drinks, and see if you’ve got what it takes to master the elements. Fun, food, and prizes await! 7-9pm. Free.

The Cellar-A Porter Brewing Company Open MICC Presented by Bend Underground Comedy Club Every 1st and 3rd Tuesday of the month you can enjoy or participate in THE MICC, a Comedy Open Mic presented by Bend Underground Comedy Club at The Cellar in Downtown Bend. Come and see local comics trying out their sharpest 3-5 minute sets. It’s free to attend and perform! Every other Tuesday, 6:30-8:30pm. Free (donations welcome).

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

Mountain Burger Trivia Tuesday Come connect with family and friends at Mountain Burger’s Trivia Tuesday. 7:30-9pm. Free.

Northside Bar & Grill Karaoke with DJ Chris Karaoke Night with DJ Chris 6-8pm. Free. Volcanic Theatre Pub Moon Hooch w/ COFRESI Though the band—whose members initially met as students at the New School—turned heads in the music industry as relative unknowns with a charismatic, unconventional sound 8pm. $20-$27. Worthy Beers & Burgers Head Games Trivia Night Join for live multi-media trivia every Tuesday night. Win prizes. Teams up to 6 players. 7-9pm. Free.

MUSIC

Public (ROCK) Choir and DPL Present: Horror Night! Sing your bloody face off with Central Oregon’s public rock choir! You (and the rest of the crowd) sing great songs with a live band and we all get loud! No experience, talent, skill, or “good” voices are required. Non-singers are perfect! Oct. 7, 6-8am. The Barrel Room at Immersion Brewing, 550 SW Industrial Way ste #185, Bend. Contact: 818-753-5825. singbend@ gmail.com. Free.

Tapestry: The Music of Carole King - Tribute Tapestry: Tribute to Carole King faithfully recreates the glorious sound of a Carole King concert, leaving your audiences with memories of the great music she wrote and recorded, including “You’ve Got a Friend," “Natural Woman," “It’s Too Late," “So Far Away," “I Feel the Earth Move” and “Beautiful.” Oct. 7, 7:30-10pm. Tower Theatre, 835 NW Wall St., Bend. Contact: 541-317-0700. info@towertheatre.org. $46-$76 (plus $6 Historic Preservation fee).

Kelcey Lassen is a musical force known for her enchanting melodies and playful spirit. With a unique blend of folk, pop and indie influences, her sound radiates warmth and joy. Sat., Oct. 5, 6:30-8:30pm at Portello Wine and Spirits.

Courtesy Lassen Music Facebook

THINK IT. MAKE IT! BEND’S MAKERSPACE

A Collaborative WORKSHOP with THE TOOLS, EQUIPMENT, SPACE, Classes and community TO help you BRING YOUR IDEAS TO LIFE

woodworking, WELDING, blacksmithing, autobay, CNC AND LASER CUTTING, 3D printing, Leather working, stained glass, fused glass, JEWELRY, Sewing and more!

EVENT

Welcome to the First Interstate Bank Bend Fall Festival 2024!

HOURS

Friday, October 4

Saturday, October 5 Sunday, October 6 5pm - 10pm 11am - 10pm 11am - 5pm

EVENT HOURS:

Friday, October 4

Saturday, October 5

Sunday, October 6 5-10pm 11am-10pm 11am-5pm

A WORD FROM FIRST INTERSTATE BANK, THE BEND FALL FESTIVAL TITLE SPONSOR:

As your trusted community bank, partner, and neighbor, we are excited to spend time with you this season at the Fall Festival.

With great food, music, art, vendors, and family fun, this amazing event celebrates where we live and the communities we serve. Although First Interstate has seen many changes during our growth and evolution the past five decades, dedication to clients and giving back to the places we call home remains our top priority.

In addition to our support of the Fall Festival, you’ve also likely seen our team at various local events, volunteering for area nonprofits, and supporting community causes and efforts.

See you there!

Celebrating our community through arts, crafts, culture, and cuisine is special to us, and we are proud to serve as a long-time supporter of the Fall Festival. First Interstate honors and celebrates the small business owners and artisans who bring this annual event to life and encourage everyone to pop by to enjoy the festivities and fun.

FRIDAY, October 4

The Bunkhouse Two

5:30PM – 6:30PM

The Bunkhouse Two is a homespun musical collaboration between Gabrielle Monia and Jordan Lewis Lee focused on developing and performing original music inspired by various American roots traditions (old-time, blues, ragtime, gospel, and more).

Polyrhythmics

8:30PM – 10:00PM

MUSIC SCHEDULE

OREGROWN MAIN STAGE

SATURDAY, October 5

Sweet N' Juicy

4:00PM – 5:00PM

Sweet is a Banana.

N’ is the King of the Pineapples. Juicy is a Strawberry. They just want you to party.

11:30AM – 12:30PM 1:00PM – 2:00PM

Chris Juhlin Project

7:00PM – 8:00PM

Chris Juhlin is a Washington-born artist with ties to Alaska, Colorado, and Idaho. His newest album Thrive is churning out roots rock with a singer songwriter emphasis and a dose of bluegrass, funk, and soul.

Polyrhythmics sound originated in Seattle’s underground deep funk scene combining impossibly tight grooves with bold brass and hypnotic percussion that showcased elements of R&B, progressive jazz, and Afrobeat which defined the instrumental group’s early era sound.

Cascade School of Music

Anderson Knight Koenig

2:30PM – 3:30PM

Anderson Knight Koenig is a Bend based singer songwriter who also goes by Billy when playing with the band Billy and the Box Kid. With his percussive rhythm guitar style, he tells stories about his life through songs, some of which might make you cry while others will make you want to get up and dance. Mostly original songs with a few covers thrown in, he plays folk, country, rock, and blues, or as some people might say, good music.

Sweet Red & The Red Hot Billies

5:30PM – 6:30PM

Sweet Red brings sass and energy to the stage with a love of fun, up beat music to bring her audience to their feet. Her classically trained vocals with a growly twist sing covers from Elvis to Patsy Cline and everything in between.

Tony Smiley

7:00PM – 8:00PM

The songs of Tony Smiley are a tantalizing ride through all live performed electro acoustic music that will cause your musical senses to rise. During the experience you can expect original soul bearing songs, improv crowd pleasers, and creative cover mixes. As he loops his way through a set he builds the audience’s anticipation by using, keyboards, drums, guitars, tambourine, vocals and beat box sounds through Boss Loop pedals. His songs are original, groove-laden works of art.

TribU2

8:30PM -10:00PM

U2 tribute pays homage to one of the greatest bands of all time. They perform tracks from the early BOY days, the incomparable/legendary JOSHUA TREE and ACHTUNG BABY chart toppers, and right up through their most recent releases. TRIBU2 showcases the vast catalog in a performance that captures Bono’s passion, energy and ‘Mysterious Ways’ as well as Edge’s unique guitar style. Come see the precision and feel the power of TRIBU2 live for yourself!

SUNDAY, October 6

Bill Powers

2:00PM - 3:00PM

Cascade School of Music

Bill Powers presents his songs and select covers in his trademark laid back style telling stories and taking listeners on a musical journey.

The Stage Hands

4:00PM – 5:00PM

11:00AM - 12:00PM

Art in Action on Brooks Alley

Catch artists in the act of creating on Art in Action Avenue, a gigantic art studio for you to explore.

STEAM ROLLER PRINT MAKING & “IMPRINT YOURSELF!”

Stand back! Prepare to see several thousand pounds of raw machine muscle create stunning art work right on the street, right in front of you. Some of Central Oregon finest artists will be expanding the dimensions of their typical printmaking boundaries onto relatively massive expanses of paper. This is big art! People can “imprint themselves” using printing blocks created onsite for public use.

PAINT YOUR ART OUT WITH ARTIST MICHELLE SCHULTZ

Bend based artist Michelle Schultz transforms a big blank surface into a large scale finished painting before your eyes. Kids can experiment with their very own painting project to take home.

CENTRAL OREGON METAL ARTS GUILD

Fire! Hammer on metal! Sparks! The Central Oregon Metal Arts Guild members (COMAG) present a dynamic interactive demonstration of the art of blacksmithing and the art of shaping steel and copper metal to create useful household tools—think hand crafted bottle openers and coffee scoops. Kids have hands on opportunities to create jewelry out of copper wire and more!

CLAY STUDIO

A formless lump of clay is transformed into a beautiful vessel in mere minutes as professional Central Oregon ceramic artists demonstrate the art and skill of wheel throwing clay. Artists will demonstrate hand building a ball of clay into amazing sculptures. Maybe you can try your hand at being a clay artist yourself!

Help Create a Large-Scale Recycled Art Installation at Bend Fall Fest!

2024 COMMUNITY WORKSHOP

October 5 & 6, 11am-5pm Troy Field

Join us as we collaborate with local Eugene artists Yustina Salnikova and Joel Dean Stockdill to create an extraordinary large-scale sculpture—a long-haired Dachshund, crafted entirely from recycled materials! This unique art installation will be a highlight of the festival, and we need your help to bring it to life.

Activity is for all ages; please note that we will be using clean trash, mostly cardboard and some tools, including glue guns, that will not be for all levels of expertise.

Last year’s sculpture!

The Bend Family Play Zone

Enjoy two days of family fun from First Interstate Bank Bend Fall Festival. It will be more fun than ever, with bounce houses, kids’ activities and more!

Pumpkin Painting

Every child at Bend Fall Festival gets to leave with a perfectly painted pumpkin to take home. Select the perfect size pumpkin from our local selection and then let your imagination run wild! Paint spooky faces, fall scenes or a colorful abstract masterpieces. All art materials are included so little ones can spend the day getting creative!

Saturday 11am-6:30pm & Sunday 11am-5pm | Oregon Ave. between Bond and Lava

Saturday, October 5 | Noon | Troy Field

Ages 3 to 4 — 12:00pm

Ages 5 to 7 — 12:10pm

Ages 8 to 10 — 12:20pm

Kids Harvest Run

A PacificSource Kids Rock the Races event

Join us on Saturday, October 5 for an exciting PacificSource Kids Rock the Races event! Kids between the ages of 3-10 will have a blast on this fun course at Troy Field (just south of the Bend Fall Festival). Each little runner will receive a pumpkin to take back to the Bend Family Play Zone’s Pumpkin Painting Station after the race.

SIGN UP EARLY

runsignup.com/Race/OR/Bend/BendFallFestival

The Great Bark Bash!

Oct 5 & Oct 6: Noon – 5pm Troy Field

Don’t just bark your calendars, mark them for a weekend of joy, jollity, and jubilant tails at the Bend Pet Express Great Bark Bash!

This fall, the Bend Fall Festival is thrilled to introduce a tail-wagging addition to our lineup: the Great Bark Bash! Nestled in the heart of Bend at the scenic Troy Field, this weekend-long celebration is dedicated to our four-legged friends and the families who love them.

Wiener Dog Race: Dash to Victory! Dachshunds of all sizes and colors will gather to compete in the eagerly anticipated Wiener Dog Race. Cheer on your favorite four-legged friend as they chase the title of fastest wiener dog in town!

Running of the Bulldogs: Bulldozing the Competition! But that's not all – the Bend Fall Festival is turning up the heat with the Running of the Bulldogs. Watch these robust bulldogs show off their strength and determination as they thunder down the track.

NEW: The Corgi Crush: Register your fluffy Corgi friend in this new heat.

NEW: The Mutt Strut Dog Show: Now all dogs can join the Bark Bash fun! Register your furry friend for one or more of our Mutt Strut Dog Show categories: Fastest Eating Contest

Costume Contest

Best Trick

Saturday, October 5

11am-Noon: Harvest Run Day of Registration opens Noon: Kids Harvest Run

1:30pm: K9 Kings Dog Show

2:30pm: Sniffs Scavenger Hunt

3pm: K9 Kings Dog Show

4pm: Sniffs Scavenger Hunt

4:30pm: K9 Kings Dog Show

Sunday, October 6

11am-Noon: Day of Registration opens

Noon: Running of the Bull(dog)s

1pm: Wiener Dog Races

2pm: Corgi Crush

3pm: Mutt Strut Dog Show

4pm: Final Awards Ceremony

$20 registration fee per dog – to be donated to HSCO

Sign up online at bendfallfestival.com or on site! All proceeds from the registration fees will go towards supporting the Humane Society of Central Oregon (HSCO). HSCO is an organization with extensive experience in all aspects of the race, ensuring the welfare and safety of all participating dogs. We are deeply grateful to have them as an integral part of our team.

ART & ARTISTS

GLASS

Art to Harmony - This artist creates fused glass using multiple techniques, including drop pot, screen drop, pattern bars, and mosaic, to produce functional art.

GIBSON GLASS ART - Using hand-cut sheet glass, crushed glass, and hand-pulled glass stringers, this artist creates complex patterns and designs. The glass is fired several times in a kiln and cold-worked.

Lemur Paw Creations - Combines the techniques of lampworking, pâte de verre, and fusing and slumping, either individually or together, to create organic, functional, and sculptural glass pieces.

CERAMICS

Key to Tibet - This artist carves tiles incorporating Tibetan designs and culture from their homeland. Each tile is hand-painted with glaze, and the artist designs a decorative copper hanger for each tile. Perfect for outdoor or indoor decor.

Pacific Stone Pottery - Specializes in crafting handmade pottery for the home and table. Marbled clays and taped decorations are used for a modern take on studio pottery.

Clay Dragon - This functional potter creates pieces that make everyday life a little more beautiful.

Pottery By Yvonne - This artist colors clays to create layered designs, throws pieces, and carves through the layers to reveal intricate patterns. The glaze highlights the colors, and the unglazed clay is sanded for a smooth finish.

Ashley B Artisticworks - Wheel-thrown and hand-carved porcelain wares with a focus on functional art.

Mauka 2 Makai Pottery - Work includes hand-thrown utilitarian pottery fired to cone 6, as well as handbuilt tiles.

PHOTOGRAPHY

Beautiful Oregon - Digital captures of Oregon’s landscapes are printed as pigment giclée prints, with minimal post-processing.

Brian Kelley Photos - Brian Kelley edits his photos for tone and color correction, then prints them using dye-sublimation on aircraft-grade metal for enhanced luster and longevity.

Darryl Bair Photo - Darryl Baird seeks to engage viewers in the finer points of observation and the relationship between seeing and understanding the world. His work explores the immense complexity of nature.

Cascade Camera Club - The Cascade Camera Club offers its coffee table book Spirit of Central Oregon, which showcases the beauty and culture of Central Oregon through images captured by club members.

Scarola Photography - A minimalistic approach focuses on finding unlikely photo opportunities and bringing attention to the subject matter.

Koru Photo Designs - Uses a Canon EOS R3 with a 500mm lens, post-processed with Camera Raw and Photoshop. Limited editions are printed on metal or acrylic.

Patrick Campbell Photography - Images captured with Nikon digital cameras are processed with Photoshop and other software, printed on dye-sublimation metal, canvas, and paper.

Rowan Nyman - Specializes in fine art nature photography of Western landscapes, wildlife, and abstracts, presented on canvas and metal.

MISCELLANEOUS

Map Your Adventure - Creates maps of real places using mapping tools and digital drawing, not derived from existing maps. Limited editions are artist-printed on canvas or paper.

Celeste Watch Company - Handcrafts artistic watch dials featuring animals, sea creatures, flowers, and more, using mother-of-pearl, abalone shell, metal, and wood.

ReImagined - Uses salvaged wood as the base for each piece, hand-cut, painted, and adorned with upcycled items for placement indoors or outdoors.

LeeAnn Sturrock - Creates original fine art prints by carving into linoleum and wood blocks using various printmaking techniques.

Bureau de Bureau - Machine-routed and hand-carved wooden panels, finished with high-caliber pigments and finishes.

JEWELRY

Tai Vautier - Tai Vautier handcrafts all her jewelry from unique sterling silver alloys. She combines high karat gold and vibrant gemstones in her designs to create a striking contrast of colors. Her metals are fused together to create distinctive pieces.

Some Girls Jewelry – Using silver metal clay, Some Girls Jewelry crafts pieces that are textured and formed by hand. The clay is kiln-fired, burning off the binder and leaving only the metal behind. Natural stones are set after the firing process.

Union Studio Metals - Hand-built, genderless jewelry made from silver, gold, bronze, and hand-selected gemstones. Each piece is designed and created in the artist’s Bend, OR studio.

Branch+Barrel - An artist-run jewelry company based in Bend, OR, specializing in handmade designs that use natural wood, reclaimed barrel staves, and botanicals, accented with hand-forged metals and tinted resins.

Stray Jewelry - Inspired by the mystical and ethereal, Stray Jewelry creates ancient-inspired talismans for the modern day, hand-fabricated from silver, bronze, and natural gemstones.

White Pelican Designs - Specializes in sterling and fine silver, 14K and 18K gold, and 24K gold leaf. Techniques include soldering, forging, fusing, and Keum-boo, with materials including natural and hand-cut gems.

Wild by Design - This artist creates botanical and faux insect jewelry. After pressing flowers, ferns, or fruit, the artist encases them in resin, incorporating materials like silver, gold, stones, and paper insects.

Ashes To Apples - Specializes in crafting unique jewelry with sterling silver, 14K gold, and precious stones using hand fabrication and lost wax casting, with a focus on meticulous detail.

Wild Flowear - A gardener-artist who blends dried flowers into hand-painted resin jewelry. The artist also crafts jewelry frames using woodwork and laser cutting techniques.

PoppyHill - Lisa creates clay jewelry inspired by the beauty of nature, selling her earrings at over 15 retailers in Bend.

Susie Larsson Design - Jewelry is hand-woven with glass-plated beads in 24KT gold, sterling silver, palladium, bronze, and other colors, using a fine needle and thread.

Silver Borders - Creates high-quality sterling silver jewelry with the intent to inspire happiness and beauty in everyday life.

FIBER

De Los Angeles Weaving - Uses a hand loom and handmade wool to create rugs. The highly skilled textile artist transforms raw wool into one-of-a-kind works of art, using hand-spun yarn and vegetable dyes.

art'frica - Traditional African fabrics, beads, clay, paint, and other objects are used with the applique technique. All works are original and custom-framed.

Erin Meyer Fine Art - Known for utilizing unusual textures, this artist uses reclaimed fabric remnants called selvage to create unique, one-of-a-kind art pieces.

FINE ART

Heather Renee Fine Art - Heather Renee uses watercolor paints to create her original paintings, with a technique that resembles colored pencil work. From her artwork, she produces fine art prints, stationery, stickers, and fabric goods.

Becca Klassy Paints - Based in and inspired by the Pacific Northwest, Becca uses acrylic paints on canvas and wood, offering prints, stickers, and postcards/greeting cards.

Black Horse Studio - Terrance Guardipee (Blackfeet Tribe) is a ledger artist and painter who depicts Blackfeet culture in his artwork, using 19th- and 20th-century ledger paper.

Xochi Fine Art - The current collections include a mix of acrylic, gouache, and inks, primarily on canvas or 300lb archival papers, focusing on florals, abstracts, and landscapes with an emphasis on color and texture.

Morganic - Specializing in hand wood burning (pyrography), Morganic creates functional pieces such as charcuterie boards, lazy Susans, spoons, and coasters, along with decorative items. Additionally, she offers prints of her watercolor paintings.

METAL

FireSmith Copper - Copper sheets are prepped with a grinder and torch flame to create colors. The artist etches through the color to create designs, which are freehand and wrapped on a handmade wood frame.

Hollis ArtWorks - Primarily works with upcycled metal, using found objects, antiques, and materials to create whimsical art. Techniques include welding, grinding, and hand plasma cutting.

Meltdown Metal Art - Creates naturally inspired metal art by hand using copper and steel. No computer assistance is used in the process.

Elegant Garden Design/Rusty BirdsSpecializes in designing metal home and garden art inspired by real-life flora and fauna, finished with either a painted or rusty patina.

Anton Yakushev Designs - Offers sculptural, functional, and decorative metal art, from interior design to body sculptures. Each piece is hand-forged and one of a kind.

MIXED MEDIA

Garrett Skelton Photography - This artist prints Pacific Northwest images on canvas, building their own rustic wood frames to add a unique touch.

Amejko Artistry - Wood canvases are drilled with thousands of holes, with wool woven through them to create designs.

MelanieJade-Art - Layers paper, acrylic paint, ink, and crayons to capture the human experience, portraying everyday life or the world around us.

Jonah Ward - In the "Glass Burned Panel" series, molten glass is used to burn abstract lines into wood panels. The "Textured Painting" series features wasp nests adhered to wood canvases.

Nzalamba Artworks - African batik art on cotton, using wax and dye, representing themes of family, hope, and love. Reproduced into lithographs and archival prints.

PAINTING & DRAWING

Lori Agnew Fine Art - Combines pen illustration with watercolor overlays.

Lessa Clayton Art - A photo-realistic Oregon landscape painter, using old techniques of layering glazes for depth.

Watercolor Wednesday - Each watercolor piece is hand-painted and then skillfully incorporated into cards, art prints, and stickers.

Art By Dakota Dean - A spray paint and stencil artist, using acrylic spray paint and hand-cut multilayered stencils.

Canyon & Cove - Original artwork created using gouache paint, colored pencils, and pastels on watercolor paper.

Maia Leisz Fine Arts - Paints large-format oils using small brushes and a limited palette, focusing on the poetry of nature.

dave fox studio - A landscape painter specializing in oils, focusing on the Pacific Northwest.

Karen’s Art by Nature - Karen’s creative process is deeply inspired by her love for nature. Whether wandering through woods, deserts, or shores, she remains attuned to patterns and colors.

Andy Sewell Fine Art - Andy Sewell uses traditional materials for oil and watercolor painting, working from photo references or plein air. His specialized techniques include splattering, scratching, and the use of custom brushes or minerals.

Heart Compass Creative - Heart Compass Creative specializes in oil, acrylic, and watercolor paintings. Her work depicts fleeting moments in nature with a storybook style, using vibrant colors to bring these scenes to life.

Sheila Dunn Art - Sheila Dunn is best known for her large, vibrant oil paintings. She portrays the people and wild places she loves through her distinctive geometric brushstrokes.

Todd Tebbs Art - Todd Tebbs creates dynamic acrylic paintings using bold brushwork, palette knives, vivid colors, and intricate layering techniques. His work transcends traditional boundaries with its rich visual language.

Lee Morrison Art - Paints abstract tree scenes using layers of paint, spatulas, and palette knives.

Louise Munro Art - Combines charcoal and ink for black-and-white nature illustrations, while using pastel and acrylic for abstract works.

Volz Art - A contemporary acrylic landscape texture artist using palette knives to sculpt trees and mountains.

Kia Zora - Works in acrylic on canvas or board, starting with an exploratory process that evolves into representational images.

Joachim Mcmillan - Creates vibrant oil paintings on canvas with a palette knife, scoring them for a mosaic effect.

WOOD

Rushing River Design - Combines epoxy and wood to create durable products, such as everyday household items.

Jenny Benoit Fine Art - Sculptures created over acrylic paintings with mediums such as clay, gel, and wood add a 3-D element, casting shadows and bringing scenes to life.

Studio Les Bois - Natural hardwood mosaics are hand-cut and sanded to mimic landscapes, with each piece being one of a kind and backlit with a remote.

Snake River Nets - Nets, fly boxes, and rod cases are crafted from local and exotic woods with tung oil finishes and turquoise inlays.

Bearded Architect Designs - Crafts wooden art and toys, most notably the popular block figures that combine wood, rope, and furniture nails.

Cedar Rose Woodworking - Creates vases and sculptures from wood harvested by the artist, using a lathe and various finishes to enhance the natural color.

B Lind Woods - Produces lathe-turned decorative items and utility bowls from salvaged Northwest hardwoods, emphasizing unique grain structures.

Christian Benoit Design - Crafts wood wall art using CAD-guided laser cuts, hand-finished with paints and stains for architectural precision.

Joe Glassford - Specializes in segmented octagon bowls from wood primarily sourced from the guitar industry, as well as large-diameter tabletops and lazy Susans.

South Palace Studio - Employs the Japanese Yaki Sugi method of wood-burning, followed by brushing, color washes, and top coatings to create trays, shelves, and landscapes.

The Girl Let Go - Known for her use of negative space and bright palettes, The Girl Let Go creates watercolor art depicting a variety of landscapes, many inspired by Oregon locations and related motifs.

Ridge Line Rings - Ridge Line Rings creates handcrafted hardwood pieces using steam to bend the material into shape. These strong and beautiful designs incorporate elements like turquoise, silver, and antler for added durability and aesthetic appeal.

Proud sponsor of the Bend Fall Festival.

First

Interstate Bank Bend Fall Festival proudly supports local nonprofits & community organizations!

Every year, a portion of proceeds from Bend Fall Festival is donated to a local nonprofit. In 2024, Street Dog Hero, Uplift Central Oregon and Humane Society of Central Oregon are this year’s beneficiaries!

Street Dog Hero rescues dogs both locally and around the world, taking the most loving dogs from some of the most horrific situations and finding them the homes they deserve. The organization addresses the overpopulation crisis and veterinary access issues by hosting both local and international spay/neuter and wellness clinics. Street Dog Hero focuses on areas in the most dire of situations, providing these services at little to no cost. The organization is dedicated to making a lasting impact by educating every community it touches, including its own.

Uplift Central Oregon

A cooperative focused on supporting Christ-centered homeschool families through a strong, connected community. The cooperative emphasizes core values like safe community, connected family, transparent love, and joyful empowerment, while offering resources and classes that cater to the needs of its members. With an annual membership fee, families can participate in various programs, including Community Days and Resource Center classes, creating a supportive environment for both parents and students.

Humane Society of Central Oregon

(Beneficiary of the Great Bark Bash)

This fantastic event isn’t just about fun and games; it’s also for a great cause. All proceeds from the registration fees, set at just $20, will go towards supporting the Humane Society of Central Oregon (HSCO). HSCO is an organization with extensive experience in all aspects of the race, ensuring the welfare and safety of all participating dogs. We are deeply grateful to have them as an integral part of our team.

Bend Business Showcase

Cascade Van

Central Oregon Spine & Sport

Best Med Urgent Care

Stio

Mountain Studio

Eternal Health Chiropractic

BendFilm

LeafFilter

Powers Bath & Remodel

Renewal by Andersen

Modern Games

Still Water Yoga

Peak Euro

Total Home Solutions

PatioFyre LLC.

The Environmental Center

LeafGuard

US Cellular

Mt. Bachelor

National Solar

Oregon Healthcare.gov

SweatHouz Bend

Boneyard Co.

Bass HVAC & Construction

Custom Made Shade Solutions

Off-Piste Provisions

Portland State University

Stored Energy Integrations

Juniper Preserve

Radiance Shield

Smile A Mile Painting

Adamos' Carnival Eats

Bend-Yay Beignets

Carmelita's Corndog Company

Dippin Dots

Island Noodles

Qualiserve

WHAT’S ON TAP

Check out this year’s food options and drinks!

Local favorites serving up deliciousness all weekend long.

Avid’s Apple Pie and Blueberry Pom hard ciders

Cocktails featuring Crater Lake Spirits

FOOD VENDORS

Red Beard Barbecue

Rico's Tacos

Sabor Peru

Southern Accent

San Juan’s Peach Rose and Huckleberry hard seltzers

Select beers from Sunriver Brewing, including Deseo Mexican

Party IPA and Sunstreak Pilsner

The Bob

The Pizza Cart TOTS!

Lager, Pathfinder Hazy IPA, Vicious Mosquito IPA, Bondi Beach

The Flaming Wick Candle Co.

SixStix Gourmet Pretzels

Catman Cellars

Portlandia Candle Company

Lil' Mama Megs

Mountain View Farm

Tumalo Tea Company

Kook'i

Harvest Market

Deschutes Soil and Water

Conservation District

Native Candy

Broadus Bees

Bohemian Roastery

Bend Urban Gardens

Curmuffins

Alpenglow Cocktail Company

Oregon Lifestyle Marketplace

Stellar Stones

Sticks & Stones

Piel Canela Peru

Wayward & Wild

Takumi Japan

Compass Goods

Redbird Readings

Kyla Rae Design

Rad Cat Press

Willis Woods

Llacta Ecuadorian

Sugarpine Ceramics

Wanderer Scrunchie Co.

Stavoren Trading Co.

Simply Dogalicious

Woodsy Craft Co.

Wild for Oregon

Moonbeam Daydream

Lazy Back Ranch

Laurel Ridge Winery

Escorcell Soaps & Sundries

Bramble Mountain

Royal Juice Co.

Bend Crafters Company

Newks Hot Sauce

Soul Collective

Tate & Adele

Oregon Rocks by Kai

Bridge City Kid

208 Tees

Za Zen

Fuzzie Dot

Nailivic Studios

Lazy Z Ranch Wines

Manuka Mana

Wild Moon Jewelry

The Loving Fungi

Ascend Mushrooms

Trailside Table

Altitude Beverages

Crater Lake Spirits

San Juan Seltzer

Ablis CBD TDS

Sisters Hats + Co.

RainBro Crafts

Penelope's Soaps & Such

ISoMimo

OM Gaia Tree

Karen's Art by Nature

Vendors Are We

BUSINESS OFFERS

Bend Electric Bikes - Fall Fest eBike Sale! October 4-6, save on electric mountain, commuter, and cargo bikes.

Bronwen Jewelry - Serving champagne for shoppers First Friday!

Cascade Cottons - Free Bend logo canvas tote bag with $100 purchase (while supplies last).

Desperado Boutique - Desperado offers a rainbow of fall colors with our amazing line of German-designed Women's Leather Jackets - All 20% off during Downtown Bend's Fall Fest!

Domaine Serene Wine Lounge - Sommelier Tasting for up to 4 Guests

Expedition Club & Supply - Map Room Open House 11-6 Saturday. Come see the members only Map Room and learn about Expedition Club. Star map and bird guide giveaway.

Foundry Church of Bend - We will be hosting 15-year-old Jayden Tranby, an acrylic landscape painter with a disability. He has no arms! He paints with his feet and his work is extraordinary. Move over, Bob Ross! Jayden will be displaying his artwork and doing live painting at Foundry Church of Bend (60 NW Oregon Ave.) on October 4th from 5:30-7:30. Some of his artwork will be for sale, but one in particular will be auctioned off to benefit Deschutes County Search and Rescue who helped Jayden’s family when his brother, Joel Tranby, fell on the North Sister last summer 2023. We will also have live music and dessert treats!

High Desert Frameworks - Artist Showcase - Taylor Manoles, Friday 10am to 5:30pm, Saturday 10am to 2pm.

John Paul Designs - Raffle for a John Paul Designs original piece of hand made jewelry during Fall Fest.

Lark | Mountain Modern - Fall Fest Raffle - Come see us, spend $20 or more, and mention that you saw this ad to be entered into our Fall Fest Raffle!!!

Legum Inc. - We will be featuring the artist Springbreak Jake, as well as the Milk Shop from Portland's Tanner Stickling. We will be serving wine and having a giveaway!

Lulu's Boutique - Fall Festival Artist, Julia Cassidy from @CozyCassidyCo. will be our guest this 1st Friday, 5-8pm. We will be raffling off one of her personalized children's sweaters.

North Soles Footwear - Anyone who purchases any Ilse Jacobsen boots or jackets will be entered to win a $150 gift card and get 10% off their purchase.

Oregon Body and Bath - 10% off all Pajamas & Robes during Fall Fest!

BUSINESS OFFERS

Outside In - Denim and Boot Event. Friday-Sunday during Fall fest. Denim and Boots are on sale plus get a change to win a free pair of jeans with each denim or boot purchase. (Some exclusions apply)

Soul Bella Boutique - Extra markdown on sale items! Spend $50 or more and spin the wheel for big deals! Enter to win a free bikini! And see all new Fall apparel!!!

The Bend Store - We'll be doing a raffle all weekend long, starting on Friday, October 4th and we will pick the winner at the end of the day on Sunday, October 6th! No purchase necessary.

The Commons Cafe & Taproom - Final First Friday Block Party in Mirror Pond Plaza with local band Billy and The Boxkid. Live Music starts at 6:30, food available from Dinky Dau food cart all night, and beverages of all kinds in the cafe. FREE and All Ages. Sponsored by Immersion Brewing.

Title Nine - We are offering $20 off any purchase of $100 or more during Fallfest weekend if customers come in with the coupon code that is shared.

Truffle Pig Trading Co - From 5-8 on October 4th we will be hosting Sparkle Strands to get your hair sparkled for the holidays and be hosting one of our favorite local artists Murphy Makings, local handmade jewelry ! We will have complimentary fall libations and fall treats!

Wild Petals Provisions - Come see us on Brooks Alley and check out or Halloween spread and taste some incredible cheese samples!

Willamette Valley Vineyards - Hours: Friday/Saturday- 1-8, Sunday 12-6 (Live Music 3-5). We will be offering a raffle for a 2018 Elton WVV PN Magnum. Come in to enter the raffle and taste some delicious Willamette Valley Wine while you’re in.

Wool Town - Needle Felt Demo - Pumpkins! Saturday October 5th, 10:00am – 5:00pm. Needle felting is the art of poking wool with a special barbed needle to create sculpture or applique. Join us downtown Bend to find out what it’s all about, pick up a beginner kit, and check out upcoming needle felt classes.

Yoga Shala Bend - Join Yoga Shala Bend for classes the week of Fall Festival and you will be entered into a raffle for a free tank top or t-shirt and a 5 class pass!

UPCOMING EVENTS

Ladies Night - November 21st

Ladies' Night in downtown Bend, Oregon, is a lively and fun-filled evening designed to celebrate women in the local community. Held once a year in various downtown businesses, it offers special discounts, events, and entertainment exclusively for women. The atmosphere is vibrant, creating a welcoming space for socializing, shopping, and enjoying delicious food and drinks. From live music to fashion pop-ups, Ladies' Night in downtown Bend encourages camaraderie and community spirit, making it a perfect opportunity to connect with friends and support local while enjoying a night out.

Small Business Saturday - November 30th

Small Business Saturday in downtown Bend, Oregon, is a cherished annual event that highlights the importance of supporting local businesses. Held the Saturday after Thanksgiving, it encourages residents and visitors to shop at locally-owned boutiques, restaurants, and specialty stores that contribute to the unique character of the community. Downtown Bend comes alive with special promotions, discounts, and festive events, making it an ideal time to discover one-of-a-kind gifts and enjoy the holiday atmosphere. This day celebrates the entrepreneurial spirit of small business owners and fosters a sense of community by reminding shoppers that every purchase helps sustain the local economy and preserve Bend's vibrant downtown culture.

Community Christmas Tree Lighting Downtown - December 6th

The Community Christmas Tree Lighting event in downtown Bend is a cherished holiday tradition that brings families and friends together to celebrate the season. This festive gathering features live music, caroling, and seasonal activities for all ages. Santa Claus makes a special appearance, delighting children as he listens to their holiday wishes. The highlight of the evening is the countdown to the tree lighting, where a beautifully decorated tree is illuminated, signaling the start of the holiday season. This joyful event captures the warmth and spirit of the community, making it a must-attend celebration in Bend.

Credit: Miguel Edwards

Credit: Miguel Edwards

CALENDAR EVENTS

DANCE

October Double Line Dance Lesson at Worthy Brewing Come join Mckenna for her first lesson back after summer vacation! She will teach two beginner, popular line dances. Join a fun, vibrant group of people who like to have fun! Grab your partner or your group of pals! No experience necessary. Come with your two left feet. Oct. 8, 7-8pm. Worthy Brewing, 495 NE Bellevue Dr., Bend. $6.

Social Ballroom Dance Practice your partner ballroom/country-western dance patterns at this social gathering. Includes a 30-minute dance lesson and mixer dance. Music rhythms include: Smooth, Latin, Swing, Nightclub, Country 2-Step, and more. Partner not required although encouraged. All levels of dance welcome. Contact Valerie for more information. Oct. 5, 6:30-9pm. The Space, 2570 NE Twin Knolls Drive, Suite 110, Bend. Contact: 541-602-6168. valdances@hotmail.com. $10..

FILM EVENTS

Wild & Scenic Film Festival An evening of captivating short films that address pressing environmental issues, highlight incredible activists around the world, and celebrate the beauty of our planet. There will be an in-person show as well as a virtual version streamed online. Join us for a night of inspiration and discovery! Oct. 4, 6-8:30pm. Tower Theatre, 835 NW Wall St., Bend. Contact: 541-330-2638. onda@onda.org. $10-$14.

Working Hands, Wild Lands Mini-Documentary Film Festival Three captivating short documentary films - "Against the Herd," "Fish and the Flame," and "Grizzlies and Grazing" - showcase the incredible potential of working lands conservation. Followed by a panel discussion.Presented by Western Landowners Alliance and Range Revolution. Oct. 8, 7-9pm. High Desert Music Hall, 818 SW Forest Ave, Redmond. Contact: 406-360-2005. cwernikowski@ westernlandowners.org. $15.

ARTS + CRAFTS

Fall Fest Downtown Bend - Visit the DIY Cave Booth Visit the DIY Cave booth at Fall Fest downtown for live demonstrations and interactive activities including welding, wood lathe, stained glass, leather tooling, and blacksmithing. Plus, we will have a silent auction to support our scholarship fund as well as our apple cider press with fresh cider. Come say hi! Oct. 5, 11am-6pm and Oct. 6, 11am-5pm. DIY Cave, 444 SE Ninth St. Suite 150, Bend. Contact: 541-3882283. classes@diycave.com. Free.

Fused Glass 101 - Slumping Make a 6” Dish Learn the basics of slumping glass using colorful glass and a variety of tools. We will focus on the techniques of fusing and slumping, which offer myriad possibilities for creating with color and form. You will learn the basics of glass and heat interaction, glass cutting, fusing, and slumping. Oct. 7, 5:30-8:30pm. DIY Cave, 444 SE Ninth St. Suite 150, Bend. Contact: 541-3882283. classes@diycave.com. $149.

Intro to Stained Glass - Pumpkin or Honeycomb Suncatcher This is a great introductory class that is meant to teach anyone the basics of stained glass in just 2 hours. Bring yourself and your friends in to make a one-ofkind stained glass suncatcher. You will have your choice of designs - Fall Pumpkin or Multicolored Honeycomb. Oct. 6, 10am-Noon. DIY Cave, 444 SE Ninth St. Suite 150, Bend. Contact: 541-3882283. classes@diycave.com. $119.

Paint Night at Modern Games - Halloween Scene Join us for a Halloween themed paint night at Modern Games as part of our monthly Let’s Paint series. Unleash your creativity in a fun and social environment. All levels of experience are welcome. Don’t miss out on this exciting and spooktacular painting opportunity! All ages welcome with an adult. Oct. 7, 6-8pm. Modern Games, 550 SW Industrial way #150, bend. Contact: 541-480-7491. sarahanneswoffer@gmail.com. $45.

find

Wine and Paint Night at WVV Join us as we head into the fall to create a lovely painting for your home all wine enjoying wine and food from Willamette Valley Vineyard. This event features local artist Debbie Irwin. Oct. 3, 5-7pm. Willamette Valley Vineyards, 916 NW Wall St., Bend. Contact: 541-306-6000. bend@wvv.com. $45.

PRESENTATIONS + EXHIBITS

Deschutes Land Trust Open House Celebrate an outstanding year of land conservation, community, and caring for the land! Learn about current Land Trust projects, and connect with Land Trust staff and other community members, while you enjoy snacks and drinks. Oct. 8, 5-7pm. Unitarian Universalist Fellowship, 61980 Skyline Ranch Rd, Bend. Contact: 541-330-0017. info@ deschuteslandtrust.org. Free.

Go Clean Energy Conference The Go Clean Energy Conference is an all-day event offering actionable insights into clean energy, sustainable building, energy efficiency, EV charging, and electrification. Featuring keynotes from Sen.Ron Wyden and climate scientist Maya Buchanan, it’s a practical, affordable “how-to” event for individuals, businesses, and government leaders. Oct. 2, 8:30am-4pm. Central Oregon Community College, 2600 NW College Way, Bend. Contact: 208-995-3548. nharren@ 350deschutes.org. Free.

Livable Future Forum: A Mule Deer’s Life Curious to learn about key efforts to preserve Central Oregon’s wildlife habitat? Come along as Jon Nelson, curator of wildlife at the High Desert Museum, and Jeremy Austin, Wild Lands and Water program director at Central Oregon LandWatch, walk us through a year from a mule deer’s perspective. Oct. 3, 7-9pm. Open Space Event Studios, 220 NE Lafayette Ave, Bend. Contact: 541-647-2930. info@colw.org. $10.

Trailblazing in Space: Missions of Discovery & Diversity with Dr. Ellen Ochoa The first Latina in space, Dr. Ellen Ochoa has charted an inspiring path — as a researcher, inventor, astronaut with four missions and director of NASA’s Johnson Space Center. Join us as Ochoa speaks about the frontiers of space and the importance of breaking barriers. Oct. 3, 7-8:30pm. Tower Theatre, 835 NW Wall St., Bend. Contact: 541-383-7257. cgilbride@cocc.edu. $20 (in-person) $5 livestream.

THEATER

Last Train to Nibroc In this humorous and heartfelt boy-meets-girl romance, two young people meet in 1940 and find themselves navigating through the tough times of a country at war to discover what they have to give up to obtain what their hearts truly desire. Oct. 5, 2-4 and 7-9pm. Sisters Firehouse Community Hall, 301 S Elm St, Sisters. Contact: info@etcbend.org. $20.

WORDS

Ancestry Search Tips and Tricks with Crista Cowan, A Roots Tech video and discussion Ancestry currently has more than 20 billion records online and more are added every single day. We want to provide you with as many ways into those records as possible. Join us as we watch a Roots Tech video of Crista Cowan as she shares some of her favorite tips. Oct. 8, 10-11:30am. Williamson Hall at Rock Arbor Villa, 2200 NE Hwy 20, Bend. Contact: 541-317-9553. info@bendgenealogy.org. Free.

Writing with the Land- A Forest Bathing Writing Workshop You will be guided in opening your heart to deeply connect with the land as you follow forest bathing invitations around 3 phases of writing. You will be provided with a journal to take home your ideas in place to develop your own piece of writing inspired with nature! Oct. 5, 3-5pm. Shevlin Park, 18920 Shevlin Rd., Bend. Contact: 541316-9213. missie@romingyogabend.com. $45.

ETC.

Fall Body Love Cleanse Join Wise & Wild Yoga and Ayurveda for this 4-week guided cleanse, done the Ayurvedic way! Give your gut the gift of a reset and prep your body for winter eating. Be safely guided through a mono-diet protocol and enjoy the gentle cathartic cleaning of all your body’s systems. Oct. 6, 11am12:30pm. The Peoples Apothecary, 1841 NE Division St., Bend. Contact: 541-728-2368. classes@ thepeoplesapothecary.net. $108.

OUTDOOR EVENTS

Connley Caves Archaeological Site Tour

Connley Caves is a fascinating archaeological site where researchers are uncovering evidence of civilizations dating back 13,000 years. During the tour, we will gain an in-person look at this active site, learn about the ancient history of people in the Central Oregon area, and explore the stunning Fort Rock! Oct. 5, 3:30-8:30pm. Wanderlust Tours, 61535 S Hwy 97, Bend. Contact: 541-389-8359. info@wanderlusttours.com. $210.

Lake Creek Trail Hike Join the Deschutes Land Trust and David Weilmuenster for a fall hike on the Lake Creek Trail at the Metolius Preserve. We’ll hike through the Preserve’s ponderosa forests and follow Lake Creek on our way to Suttle Lake. Learn about the fascinating plant life of the Metolius region. Oct. 5, 10am1pm. Metolius Preserve, near Camp Sherman, Sisters. Contact: 541-330-0017. event@deschuteslandtrust.org. Free.

Paulina Creek Preserve Tour Join the Deschutes Land Trust and Stacey Forson for a fall tour of Paulina Creek Preserve. With ponderosa and lodgepole pine forests, wet and dry meadows, and 3.7 miles of Paulina Creek, the Preserve helps mitigate the impacts of climate change, providing habitat for a wide range of wildlife. Oct. 5, 10am-12:30pm. Paulina Creek Preserve, Paulina Lake Rd., La Pine. Contact: 541-330-0017. event@deschuteslandtrust.org. Free.

NATURAL MENOPAUSE SUPPORT BIO-IDENTICAL HORMONES

Dr. Azure Karli, N.D. 20 YEARS EXPERIENCE

Blending Nature with Medicine bendnaturopath.com 541/389/9750

The Stews live music is a perfect blend of upbeat, singalong indie tunes and downright headbanging hard rock. Fans will

songs reminiscent of Pink Floyd, Rainbow Kitten Surprise and The Allman Brothers, to name a few. Wed., Oct. 2, 8pm at Volcanic Theatre Pub.

Courtesy The Stews Instagram

CRUSH CANCER

Songs of Growth and Heartache: Jade Bird on Love, Loss and Music

The British singer/songwriter talks personal growth, her latest EP and her songwriting influences

Seafood Boil & Fundraiser

ade Bird’s musical journey began early, writing songs at just eight years old. Drawing on folk, Americana and country influences, the British singer/songwriter has carved a niche for herself with raw, emotionally charged lyrics. Her latest EP, “Burn the Hard Drive,” delves into personal heartache, reflecting on loss and growth. In this Q&A, Bird opens up about inspiration behind her new music, her love for Americana and what fans might not know about her. Answers are edited for concision and clarity.

Source Weekly: You started writing music when you were around seven or eight. Did you ever expect it to grow into the career you have today?

SW: As a British artist, what drew you to Americana and folk genres?

JB: Funny enough, I hadn’t even been to America when I released my EP, “Something American.” It covered indie, blues and country genres. I think I resonated with Americana because I moved around a lot as a kid and the music feels like traveling music or music of the traveler. I’m obsessed with Bob Dylan and Johnny Cash’s “Girl from the North Country.” That sense of always moving speaks to me.

SW: Do you have a favorite song from your latest EP, “Burn the Hard Drive?”

Jade Bird: I had a single mom who always instilled in me that, “you can dream,” so I went for it from a young age and I was driven to make that happen. Even now, I’m still in disbelief when people come to my shows. While I’ve stayed driven, I feel pretty grateful and shocked sometimes. I always knew I wanted to write songs and it was clear that’s what I’d end up doing – whether it became my day job or not.

SW: You’ve experienced personal growth and career success at a young age. How have these shaped your songwriting?

JB: Growing up in general affects your songs – mostly through relationships. When I was younger, my parents and grandparents had fractious relationships and their divorces influenced my early music. Now it’s my own relationships and breakups. My next album will be a breakup album. Losses really shape who you are.

SW: Your EP, “Burn the Hard Drive,” reflects a deeply personal period. How does writing about raw emotions impact you? Is it therapeutic or challenging?

JB: It’s incredibly therapeutic. I wrote a song about not speaking to my dad, which is on the new record and I debated whether to share it. But I’ve learned that songwriting is about making myself feel better at the core – it’s been an outlet for me since a young age. What’s beautiful is that others can connect to the sentiment, even if they didn’t write the song. It’s like a sweet handshake or hug.

JB: It changes all the time, but “C’est La Vie” was my favorite song for a while. I wrote it on the road during an argument with my ex-fiance – it was kind of a break from everything. That song made me feel like I could breathe again.

SW: What’s one thing your fans might be surprised to learn about you?

JB: I’m a big gamer. I love video games like Minecraft and The Sims. It’s my way to switch off.

SW: If you could collaborate with any artist past or present, who would it be and why?

JB: I’d love to write something with Sheryl Crow. She creates these effortless carefree choruses, and I would love to be able to write a song like that.

SW: Is there another passion or career you could see yourself pursuing aside from music?

JB: I think I’ll always create songs, it’s like a language for me. But I read a lot and I would love to write a novel someday day. Music feels very fastpaced right now and I’d enjoy working in a slower form. I’m drawn to slow inspiration and letting things percolate, which I’ve been fortunate to do that with my albums so far. If I ever get the chance, I’d love to seriously write longer-form work.

Star Party

Join the Deschutes Land Trust and Jim Hammond for an exploration of the summer night sky at Rimrock Ranch. Jim and friends from the Sisters Astronomy Club will set up powerful telescopes and help you identify constellations, planets, and far-away galaxies. Oct. 4, 6:30-10pm. Rimrock Ranch, outside Sisters, Sisters. Contact: 541-330-0017. event@ deschuteslandtrust.org. Free.

Traditional Archery Workshop Adults and Ages 16+ join us for a workshop where you’ll learn about traditional Archery and other projectiles. We’ll practice target shooting with handmade bows and play a fun foam archery game! Oct. 5, 10am-2pm. Bend, RSVP for address, Bend. Contact: info@nighthawknaturalistschool.com. $65.

VOLUNTEER

Collier Memorial Park - Plant Community Monitoring We’re seeking volunteers to monitor plant growth and survival at our riparian restoration sites in Collier Memorial State Park. This hands-on work enhances future restoration methods and builds valuable skills. Volunteers will hike short distances and work in confined spaces, with chances to spot wildlife like otters, eagles, and beavers! Oct. 5, 9am-5pm. Collier Memorial State Park, 46000 US-97, Chiloquin. Contact: 541699-1606. maureen@thinkwildco.org. Free.

Plant Staging Party Join the Land Trust for a fall work party at Rimrock Ranch to help get ready for restoration plantings along Whychus Creek. Volunteers will help unload and transport plants to a nearby staging location. Plants will arrive in two deliveries, so we will tour the restoration project between each delivery. Oct. 7, 9:45am-4:30pm. Rimrock Ranch, outside Sisters, Sisters. Contact: 541-330-0017. event@ deschuteslandtrust.org. Free.

Whychus Creek Cleanup Join the Land Trust for a fall creek cleanup at Camp Polk Meadow Preserve. We’ll be walking the banks of Whychus Creek looking for trash and other items that don’t belong near the water. Help keep our water clean and healthy for fish and wildlife. Oct. 2, 10am-2pm. Camp Polk Meadow Preserve, outside Sisters, Sisters. Contact: 541-330-0017. event@deschuteslandtrust.org. Free.

GROUPS + MEETUPS

Bend City Council Candidate Forum

This is an in-person event. In partnership with the League of Women Voters of Deschutes County and the City Club of Central Oregon 5:306:30pm: Position 1 & 3 candidates. 6:45-7:45pm: Position 2 & 4 candidates. Moderated by Aaron Switzer, The Source. Questions can be submitted here: https://forms.gle/x36EdwxtaXtVK1UX9 Oct. 7, 5:30-9pm. Deschutes County Administration Building, 507 NW Wall St, Bend. Free. House District 53 Candidate Forum

This is a virtual event that can be viewed live here: https://www.youtube.com/@leagueofwomenvotersofdesch7364 Moderated by Gillian Hodgen, KPOV Questions can be submitted by the public only through this link: https://forms. gle/5jgUjLkbUBMkjGSY9 In partnership with the League of Women Voters of Deschutes County and the City Club of Central Oregon Oct. 8, 6-7pm. Contact: info@lwvdeschutes.org. Free.

Single Mingle & Speed Dating

Geared toward singles looking to make new connections, this event offers a blend of casual mingling and structured speed dating rounds. Exclusively for those 21 and over, your participation not only promises a fantastic time but also contributes to a charitable cause—proceeds go to the Charity of the Quarter. Fri, Oct. 4, 6-8pm, Fri, Nov. 1, 6-8pm and Fri, Dec. 6, 6-8pm. The Bend Wine Bar & Winery Tasting Room, 550 SW Industrial Way, Suite 194, Bend. Contact: 541241-6145. events@oregonsingleites.com. $5.

What’s Brewing: Exploring Economic Trends and What’s on the Horizon— Oct 8 Join us for an insightful discussion on the dynamic state of business in Bend. This event will delve into the latest market trends, emerging opportunities, and the challenges facing local businesses. Light appetizers, beer, cider, wine, and NA beverage options included. Oct. 8, 5-7:30pm. Tetherow Resort Event Pavilion, 61240 Skyline Ranch Rd., Bend. $35 Bend Chamber Members | $50 Non-Chamber Members.

FUNDRAISING

Comedy for Kids’ Sake Comedy For Kids’ Sake is returning this fall! The evening will include a 3-course dinner with Beer & Wine, live and silent auctions, and excellent comedy! Oct. 4, 5:30-10pm. Tetherow Resort Event Pavilion, 61240 Skyline Ranch Rd., Bend. Contact: 541312-6047. sguerrero@bbbsco.org. $125.

StirrUp Purpose Flannel Fling Open

House This fun event is open to the public and highlights a different StirrUp Purpose equine assisted service every 2 hours. Enjoy activities for children and adults including horsey photo booth and horse painting. Music from three different bands and great food truck cuisine. Tremendous auction and raffle prizes offered. Oct. 5, Noon-6pm. Faith Run Farms, 60575 Billadeau Road, Bend. Contact: 541-410-0164. pennyc@ stirruppurpose.org. Free.

FRIDAY, OCT 4 AT 7PM

EVENTS + MARKETS

Bend Fall Festival Get cozy and enjoy the harvest season with friends, good food and a hot cup of cider. Downtown Bend’s Fall Fest brings music, food and art. The streets will be filled with a Harvest Market, gourmet food and wine, family fun, fine arts promenade, Bend business Showcase and more. Fri, Oct. 4, 5-10pm, Sat, Oct. 5, 11am-10pm and Sun, Oct. 6, 11am-5pm. Downtown Bend, Free.

Sisters Farmers Market Visit Sisters Farmers Market to experience the bounty of Central Oregon! Browse fresh produce, locally raised meats, seafood, artisanal food products, and find the perfect handcrafted gift from local makers. Enjoy live music and be sure to visit our website to see each Sunday’s community activity schedule! Sundays, 10am-2pm. Through Oct. 27. Fir Street Park, Sisters, Sisters. Contact: 541-904-0134. sistersfarmersmarket@gmail.com. Free.

The Launch at Discovery Corner On the corner of Skyline Ranch Rd & Ochoa Dr: As Discovery Corner nears completion, we’re excited to celebrate the plaza’s grand opening as the hub and heart of the neighborhood. Oct. 4, 5:30-8pm and Oct. 5, 10am-2pm. Discovery Corner Plaza, 1125 NW Ochoa Drive, Bend. Free.

BEER + DRINK

Becky Wasserman Imports Bar Takeover Don’t miss this opportunity! Becky Wasserman was one of the leading influences in resetting expectations for what great wines of Europe should represent. Come enjoy a menu full of wine gems from this importer, presented by Timothy Davey, who brings these wines into Oregon with his distribution company, Lone Wolf. Oct. 5, 4:30-9pm. Viaggio Wine Merchant, 210 SW Century Drive, Suite 160, Bend. Contact: 541-2995060. info@viaggiowine.com. Varies by purchase.

SATURDAY, OCT 5 AT 7PM

Fresh Hops On The Pond Fresh Hop

Beer Festival with beers from over 20 breweries. Live music all day! Oct. 4, 11am-8pm. Bend Brewing Company, 1019 NW Brooks St., Bend. Free.

Wine Workshop Series: Sake 101 ‘Wine Workshop Series’ Mark your calendars for Friday, Oct. 4, as Flights Wine Bar brings you an unforgettable Sake 101 workshop with Eli Nygren, a sake specialist and former brewer in Japan! Get ready to dive into the world of sake and sip on a variety of styles. Oct. 4, 6-7pm. Flights Wine Bar, 1444 NW College Way Suite 1, Bend. Contact: 541-728-0753. flightswinebend@gmail.com. $25 refunded with 2 bottle purchase.

HEALTH + WELLNESS

$5 Yoga Classes! Join us for a community day of $5 classes for everyone. We have 14 classes on the schedule with a variety of teachers and styles. We have mats for rent, or bring your own. Pre-registration required. Sign up early as we expect a packed house! Oct. 6, 6:30am-8pm. Bend Hot Yoga, 1230 NE 3rd St. UnitA230, Bend. Contact: yoga@bendhotyoga.com. $5.

Aligning with the Purpose of your Soul: Akashic Soul Record Reading In this soul-led workshop you will discover four main areas of your Akashic Soul Record: Your Energy Center of Training, Your Soul Group of Origin, Your Soul trainings between lifetimes and The Archetypes of your soul. Oct. 4, 6:30-8:30pm. The Peoples Apothecary, 1841 NE Division Street, Bend. Contact: 541-728-2368. classes@ thepeoplesapothecary.net. $155.

Boundaries Bootcamp for Women Join with other women to empower yourself and improve your life by learning to set boundaries. Includes lecture, group work, practice, and time for individual reflection. Hosted by Robin Arnett, LCSW, trauma therapist, trainer, and reiki master. Learn more about Robin at empoweredheartscollective.com. Can’t wait to see you there! Oct. 5, 1-4:30pm. Love Bird Yoga, 418 SW 6th St., Redmond. Contact: hello@empoweredheartscollective.com. $60.

Essential Ayurveda: Eating + Cooking for Health Wade into the world of Ayurveda with this workshop designed to introduce you to a simple, different approach to eating and cooking. Learn how small, manageable changes lead to significant improvements in your health. Come hungry, Brandy Berlin will demonstrate Ayurevedic meal cooking preparations and share with all who attend! Oct. 8, 6-7:30pm. The Peoples Apothecary, 1841 NE Division Street, Bend. Contact: 541-728-2368. classes@thepeoplesapothecary.net. $30.

Gather Sauna House Opening Weekend Join Gather Sauna for opening weekend of sauna season at the river in Riverbend Park! Our traditional sauna sessions include authentic wood-fired sauna and natural river cold plunges + ample time to connect with nature and reset you mind/body/spirit! Pre-book your session online. Wednesdays-Sundays. Riverbend Park, 799 SW Columbia St., Bend. Contact: 503830-6393. info@gathersaunahouse.com. $36 a seat for a communal session.

SUNDAY, OCT 6 AT 2PM

Prolific songwriter, recording artist and performer Blair Borax is known for her distinctive voice, captivating melodies and thoughtful songwriting. With a newfound confidence in fingerpicking guitar, Borax creates dynamic folk music. Thu., Oct. 3, 7-10pm at Silver Moon Brewing.

Courtesy Blair Borax Facebook

CHOW

The perfect dish. Not a dish that is flawlessly constructed or stunningly plated (although that can be part of it), but the meal that your mind instantly goes to when you decide you don’t wanna cook dinner and need your favorite comfort meal.

In that moment, nothing else will do. Someone else might not care for it, but that’s OK because it’s yours and that’s what really matters. This is about you.

I asked dozens of people from all walks of life around Bend what their local comfort meal is and received dozens of different answers (with more overlap than I expected) that cover a wide-ranging and diverse range of flavors and regions. In keeping this scientific, I’m going to keep the people I asked anonymous so that the answers are context-free and just focused on the dishes themselves. It’s not about why, it’s about what we love.

If you’d asked me pre-Covid, my answer would have been the chicken Wrap of Khan from Paril la Grill with extra bamboo and added black beans. I ate one of those a week for almost a decade and I regret nothing. Now, though, I would have to say it’s the Chicken Makhani from Taj Palace, which balances the acidity of the tomato sauce with the sweet/savory dichotomy of the garam masala into a dish that I’ve been eating for over 20 years and will definitely be obsessing over for 20 more. It’s my death row meal and I love it.

Comfort. Food.

What’s your perfect local dish?

By Jared Rasic

which, yeah, are amazing.

Yoli: I think Yoli is stone cold the most underrated restaurant in Bend. They serve not just exemplary Korean food for Central Oregon, but are world class in their flavors, their plating and their profiles, with consistently fearless approaches to classic dishes. Their Dolsot Bibimbap with gently sizzling rice in a stone pot with kimchi, chicken and a runny egg is the definition of perfection. Several other people mentioned Yoli, including a vegan friend who said his favorite dish was “Hands down, the Yoli Bibimbap, sub out the tofu and sub in fried cauliflower. They make a special version of one of their spicy sauces, so if you request that, the dish can be made vegan.”

Bo’s: Look, so many different things could be mentioned here because Bo’s doesn’t f**k around even a little. Yeah, the falafel is just as tender and crunchy and mouth-watering as you’ve heard, but the Seth Rogan on a flawlessly boiled salted honey rosemary bagel with house-made sausage, smashed hash browns, pickled jalapeños, romaine, melted cheddar and house ranch is what dreams are made of.

Since Bend does have a few pretty wonderful bagel spots, Mimi’s Bagel Deli was also called out more than once: specifically the Everything Bagel with egg, cheese and hash brown and the Hangover with the “best pork roll on the West Coast.”

Brewing Company, Mill Works Pub and Cascade Lakes Brewing.

Many different people (obviously) mentioned Spork dishes like the Spicy Fried Chicken with a side of cucumber salad, the Dan Dan Noodles, Green Curry with Shrimp and the Lomo Saltado. I approve this message.

Here are just a few more quotes from a small sampling of the people that I asked, most of whom took a good, long time to think of their perfect dish even if some couldn’t name just one:

“Death row meal? Filet Mignon from 900 Wall.”

“Taco Bowl at Hablo Tacos. It’s an obsession.”

“The Bún bò Huế at Pho Viet, the Carne Asada at Hola! And the Duck Curry at Noi Thai. I have so many more!”

“Oh my. The first thing that comes to mind are the basil noodles from Wild Rose. Or literally just the green beans from Sen. I could eat 50 pounds of those things.”

“El Sancho barbacoa tacos…or the Zydeco shrimp grit cake. Also, the Aina Ahi Katsu.”

“Hefe’s Fish Tacos from Parilla.”

“BBQ tempeh sandwich from Broken Top Bottle Shop. Chips with a side of pickles. Dear diary…so good! It’s large slices of BBQ tempeh- well sauced, with cole slaw on a toasted bun. Plus, BTBS has a ton of vegan options so I don’t ever have to modify things in order to be able to go out and eat. 10/10.”

“Pho with lean beef from Dang’s.”

I’m going to cheat a tiny bit and name a few more perfect dishes that I can’t leave out and also sleep well tonight. I know, I’m weird.

Sopa: The Quesabirria isn’t just gorgeously plated, but easily one of the top two or three Mexican dishes in all of Bend. Lightly covered in flawless avocado salsa with a giant cup of thick and peppery consomé, this birria quesadilla is, genuinely perfect. Several other people I asked also mentioned Sopa; in particular the fried cheesy Birria tacos

Another way to get up and go is Active Culture’s Hummus Burrito on a flour tortilla with organic brown rice, organic house-made hummus, organic mixed greens, cucumber, tomato, slaw, red onion, seasoning, falafel sauce, served with tortilla chips and a side of salsa. I haven’t tried that yet, but now it’s at the top of the list.

Sebastian’s halibut fish and chips were mentioned as several people’s favorite local seafood, with a few others calling out the fish and chips from Bend

“My food knowledge baseline is pre2020 due to kids. Spork: Spicy fried chicken. Wild Rose: Khao Soi Curry with Chicken. Zydeco: Shrimp appetizer. 2012 me is the Buffalo Mac from Brother Jon’s.”

“Wonton Soup from Pho Viet.”

“Chancho a lo Sancho braised pork from Hola!”

“Hard choice but right now it would probably have to be the poutine from Monkless. I think about it an unhealthy amount.”

“12-piece wings from Fire on the Mountain with buffalo hot + Bourbon chipotle and a side of sweet potato fries.”

“Shim Shon Bowl with Zhug or Tuom sauce with a side of delicious fries and I alternate proteins between lemon shrimp and falafel.”

“The enchiladas from Rodolberto’s. Just very flavorful, moist and yummy. It’s authentic. Reminds me of Mexico.”

“The mushroom bisque from Ariana is probably the best thing I’ve ever tasted.”

“Flights Wine Bar has some chronic shit. The fried chicken and champagne was rad. The chicken provides all the nutrients I need for the inevitable parking lot fist fight that follows, brought on in part by the bottle of champagne that comes with the meal. A lovely pairing for any occasion.”

“Bruno’s makes the best pepperoni and sausage take and bake pizza I’ve ever had."

After a brief poll at Cascade West, I received several varied answers, including another vote for the Birria tacos at Sopa, The Popper from Americana, the chicken noodle from Da Nang, the Shaapta with extra heat from Himalayan Bites, the Python & Rabbit sausage with chimichurri, cream cheese and caramelized onions from Bangers & Brews, the Crab BTLA from Awbrey Glen and Tina’s Chicken Noodle Soup from Lifty’s.

Regardless of where it is that makes you the happiest and wherever you find your perfect dish, I think these answers prove that Bend’s food scene isn’t just thriving, but making each one of us, when we really need it, find our comfort.

Tell us your favorite spot!

ChanchoaloSancho braisedporkfromHola!

JenGaller

FishandChips from MillWorksPub

LITTLE BITES

By Nicole Vulcan

A Chicken Collab at Worthy’s Downtown Location

As of Oct. 1, Wonderland Chicken has moved its Bend operations to Worthy Brewing’s downtown location. Wonderland operates a food truck in Sunriver and most recently had its Bend truck parked at Bunk + Brew. It partnered with Worthy to bring its signature Nashville Hot Chicken sandwich, house-made mac and cheese, fried pickles and other dishes to the location in Brooks Alley. Since it’s a brew house, each dish has a recommended beer to pair with it. For example, the mac and cheese goes great with

a Worth stout, the two companies say. Worthy and Wonderland Chicken are planning a grand opening celebration for the new collaboration, taking place Oct. 4 and 5 and featuring live music curated by Jeshua Marshall and Jasper the Disaster. The grand opening takes place from 6 to 9pm both Friday and Saturday.

Wonderland Chicken Co. at Worthy Brewing 806 NW Brooks Ave., Bend wonderlandchickenco.com

Cuppa Yo Opens in Prineville

Afrozen yogurt shop with locations on Bend’s east and west sides, along with locations in La Pine and Redmond, has added another Central Oregon locale to its lineup: Prineville. The Cuppa Yo in Prineville opened last month and held a grand opening on Sept. 28. Like the other locations, Cuppa Yo lets visitors dish up their favorite flavor of frozen yogurt and then top it with any number of sweet and savory topping combinations.

"Our goal is to make Cuppa Yo a community hub, not just a place to

eat. We’re committed to being an active part of the community, supporting local events and causes that make Central Oregon such a wonderful place to live,” wrote co-owner Kelly Harper, who owns Cuppa Yo with fellow Central Oregon resident Tasha Harper. The shop is open daily from noon to 8pm.

Cuppa Yo Prineville 455 NE 3rd St., Prineville Cuppayo.com/prinevilleor Open Daily noon-8pm

Courtesy Cuppa Yo Facebook

Courtesy Wonderland Chicken Co Facebook

CULTURE

In Conversation with Author Donna Barba Higuera

"The Last Cuentista" is a classic story for all ages

By Cassie Clemans, owner of Roundabout Books & Cafe

The day Donna Barba Higuera won the John Newbery Medal for most distinguished American children’s book, she had no idea that the award was coming.

“The moment they said it, I was speechless and so emotional. I had to calm down after the call. It was one of those experiences where you know from then on, your life will never be the same.”

There are rare moments in one’s life where the trajectory changes so significantly that the world never feels the same again, and that’s what Higuera has written about in her award-winning book, “The Last Cuentista.”

Published in 2021 by Levine Querido, it’s the story of Petra Peña, a brave young protagonist who must face the end of the world and do the unimaginable — travel to a new planet that will carry on the human race. Hundreds of years into her journey, Petra wakes to discover a sinister “Collective” has taken over the ship, and Petra is the lone survivor with her memories of home still intact. She becomes the last cuentista, or storyteller.

Higuera’s book has complex and challenging themes — themes that may elicit complicated reactions in even adult readers. One such theme explores the relationship between collective and individual good. When I asked her about her approach to children’s writing, she said: “I bring up the topics because I was a kid who was thinking about these things. I don’t answer the question, but

I think it’s important for kids to wonder and not know the final answer. We have to give young readers credit and the opportunity to think and ponder complicated issues.”

At its foundation, “The Last Cuentista” is a story of immigration, and Higuera describes with great empathy the fear and trepidation of moving your life and family to an unknown place. There is no guarantee that life be better, but there is hope, and hope is powerful.

“All over the world, we want the same things. Everyone has stories.”

—Donna Barba Higuera

“What if the Collective tried to remove my family? What if they tried to separate me from my memories? I thought a lot about chosen families in this book, and about what connects us as humans. Separating people from one another is cruel. We have to have relationships with other humans to be happy, to thrive, to survive. It’s a necessity.”

“The Last Cuentista” is rich with storytelling, folk tales and author references. I talked to Higuera about her experience as a reader growing up, about the stories that matter to her and how they shaped this novel.

“When I’m writing, I choose something really personal to me, so that the reader can feel what I’m feeling. If I’m laughing, they’ll laugh. If I’m crying, they’ll cry. And I asked myself throughout the writing of this book, what scares me the most? And it’s the erasure of stories. What if someone tried to erase those? What if they took them away?”

The impact of that thought permeates “The Last Cuentista” and is a central question of Petra’s story. The significant importance of stories, of history, of shared experiences between humans, is understood when you follow Petra’s journey of losing them forever.

“Traveling around after the Newbery Award has really emphasized to me how much we have in common. All over the world, we want the same things. Everyone has stories. My stories are mine, but once I give them to you, they’re yours, too, and they become a part of your story as well.”

We here at Roundabout Books couldn’t agree more, and remain so inspired by the breadth and depth of children’s literature being published today. “The Last Cuentista” is a new favorite, and I encourage everyone, young and old, to read it.

Our Oregon community is fortunate to have this book chosen as part of the 2024-2025 Oregon Battle of the Books 6th-8th Grade Division List, as it brings awareness of this, and all the books on the list, to libraries and schools across the state. OBOB is an annual statewide

voluntary reading motivation and comprehension program, during which students read 16 titles at their grade level and then compete on comprehension in a championship bracket.

Each year Roundabout Books organizes multiple free Zoom events with select OBOB authors that anyone can attend to learn more about the book, the author and the writing process. You can view this year’s lineup and register for the free events here, and watch my full interview with Donna Barba Higuera on the Roundabout Books YouTube.

You can also visit Higuera’s website for education and discussion guides for each of her books. “The Last Cuentista” is not the first of Higuera’s novels to win an award! “Lupe Wong Won’t Dance” won the Sid Fleischmann Award in 2020, an award given to authors whose work exemplifies excellence in writing humor.

“The Last Cuentista” by Donna Barba Higuera

SC A World-Class Weekend

The 21st annual Bend Film Festival is almost here

By Jared Rasic

Here we go, ladies, gentlemen and everyone across the spectrum! On Oct. 10 the 21st Annual Bend Film Festival arrives, and I’ve seen an astonishing number of movies, not just in my duties as Lead Shorts Programmer for the fest, but in preparation to recommend some non-shorts related cinema to all of you.

From the end of last year until around June or July I watched over 800 Narrative and Animated Shorts for the festival and I regret absolutely nothing. In fact, I wish I could bottle the feeling of watching a brilliant short after watching like 50 bad ones in a row. It’s an indescribable cinematic high I recommend everyone experience at least once in their life. That sense of discovery is sublime, and one of the reasons I’ve spent half my life writing about movies.

This week I highlight a few of the movies/shorts blocks I really enjoyed, and then I’ll spend next week building a mock festival schedule to try to help you balance your weekend and maximize the number of movies you get to see. Let’s dive in.

While there are several filmmakers I’m very excited to meet, I’m over the moon to meet Karyn Kusama, BendFilm’s 2024 Indie Filmmaker of the Year. Her film “Girlfight” (2000) redefined indie film at the time and “Jennifer’s Body” (2009) is one of the most iconic horror comedies of the century so far. Also, her work on “Yellowjackets” and “Halt and Catch Fire” is some of the most intelligent and tensely executed television directing I’ve ever seen. On Friday, Oct. 11, there will be a screening of “Girlfight” and Saturday, Oct. 12, there will be a screening of “Destroyer” (with Nicole Kidman and Sebastian Stan), both of which will have Kusama in attendance. These two screenings will not only be of singular and excellent films, but also a priceless window into the mind of a groundbreaking filmmaker.

Also in attendance will be Sydney Freeland, BendFilm’s 2024 Indigenous Honoree. Her work on “Reservation Dogs,” “Star Trek: Strange New Worlds,"

the extremely underrated Marvel miniseries “Echo” and the upcoming “Rez Ball” (screening as the opening night film at the Tower Oct. 10) is always deeply thoughtful and empathetic, putting characters before spectacle or plot. She’s a genuinely exciting emerging artist and filmmaker.

Another strong entry in this year’s Indigenous Film Showcase is “Missing From Fire Trail Road,” a crime documentary focused on a group of women from the Tulalip Indian Reservation in Washington searching for Mary Ellen Johnson-David, an indigenous woman who disappeared in 2020.

The amount of abuse heaped on indigenous lives in America has been disturbing and rage-inducing for centuries, but to see how little of a shit the FBI gives about the actual epidemic of missing, murdered, assaulted and trafficked Native American women is disgusting and all-too-typical of a government that has always treated indigenous people as less-than. A giant wake-up call to the world to pay attention to the injustices

being endlessly perpetrated on reservations across the country.

“Adult Best Friends” is a touching and hilarious look at female friendships that last from childhood to adulthood and the minefields inherent in being that close to someone for that long.

Actor/Director Delaney Buffett, along with co-writer and co-star Katie Corwin, crafted a touching and hilarious movie with dialogue that feels so of-the-moment that we can imagine it happening just around the corner a week ago.

Packed with great supporting characters (including a sadly hilarious Zachary Quinto) and a genuinely character-driven story that eschews manufactured drama for honest moments of beauty, “Adult Best Friends” will touch you in some weird and uncomfortable places.

“Mamifera” is probably my favorite Narrative in the competition. It’s a Spanish dramedy focused on a 40-yearold woman living a delightful life with her partner and old blind dog — until an unexpected pregnancy reshapes what she imagines her future to be. There

are scenes of such startling intimacy between the two leads that I immediately was captivated by their love story and desperate for their continued happiness. Filled with quiet and flawlessly observed character moments, the themes of reproductive rights and latestage motherhood only strengthen — all of which is astonishingly brought to life by the incredible Maria Rodríguez Soto. Writer/director Liliana Torres just made a lifetime fan out of me.

Other Narrative Features I enjoyed are the GenZ Grimecore cringe comedy “Rent Free” and the still kinetics of the Oregon Noir fractured fairy tale “To Kill a Wolf.” I also can’t tell you how excited I am to finally watch the new Sebastian Stan-led dark dramedy “A Different Man,” Andrea Arnold’s new tone poem “Bird,” the secretly filmed thriller “The Seed of the Sacred Fig” and Sean Baker’s newest modern classic, “Anora.” On the documentary side, don’t miss the love letter to National Geographic “The Wonder and the Worry,” the quintessentially, classically Oregonated “The Spirit of Halloweentown” (which not only captures the weirdly irrepressibly nature of Oregonians, but also features an appearance by Bend’s iconic Caressa Banana), the intense and powerful “Firebreak” focused on formerly incarcerated firefighters and the hauntingly transcendent work of art, “!AITSA,” that manages to cover almost the entirety of human existence in 90 minutes.

Next week I’ll talk about several more movies and shorts, build a schedule for the whole weekend and check in with Executive Director Giancarlo Gatto and Programming Director Selin Sevinc. Stay tuned!

21st Annual Bend Film Festival Thu., Oct. 10-Sun., Oct. 13 Check https://bendfilm.org/ for tickets, showtimes, locations and all things Bend Film Festival.

Models not included with trophy.

Steven Addington Photography

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Don’t miss the First Interstate Bank Empty Bowls event! Join us for an amazing afternoon packed with live music, delicious soup prepared by the talented chefs at Cascade Culinary Institute, exciting raffle prizes, and the opportunity to take home a stunning handcrafted bowl—all for just $35!

Every ticket sold directly contributes to NeighborImpact and our food program, which nourishes over 60,000 individuals each month.

JOIN US SUNDAY, OCTOBER 27 th Two Seating Times: Noon & 1:30pm At Central Oregon Community College

By Savannah Mendoza

Interactive Creativity Comes Alive at Bend Fall Festival’s

Art

in Action Avenue

Experience

the magic of hands-on activities where local artists and the community bring art to life together

As the crisp air rolls into Bend, downtown transforms into a vibrant celebration of art, music and community at the annual Bend Fall Festival. Picture yourself wandering through downtown with a pumpkin spice latte in hand, browsing art displays, enjoying live music and sampling local food and drinks. From family-friendly activities to creative installations, the festival packs the essence of the harvest season into one festive weekend.

Taking place Friday Oct. 4 through Sunday Oct. 6, the Bend Fall Festival brings the community together for three days of autumn fun in downtown Bend.

This year, Lay It Out Events – the Source Weekly’s sister company -- is collaborating with local Eugene artists Yustina Salnikova and Joel Dean Stockdill to create an interactive sculpture made entirely from recycled materials. In a creative nod to sustainability, the installation offers attendees a chance to participate in its construction. This exciting project, along with steamroller printmaking, a clay studio, pumpkin painting and more, will be featured in the Festival's, “Art In Action Avenue.”

“The pumpkin painting area at Fall Fest is one of the most beloved activities we offer every year – free mini pumpkins and the chance for kids to paint their very own designs,” said Megan Burton, marketing director. “We wanted

to expand this experience and we were given a generous grant from the Bend Cultural Tourism Fund to make that happen. For the past two years, we’ve been able to offer several different interactive activities for attendees.”

Festivalgoers are encouraged to stop by and help build the recycled sculpture and become part of the artistic magic. Other hands-on opportunities include the Central Oregon Metal Arts Guild booth, where kids can try their hand at blacksmithing techniques to create jewelry.

“When attendees have the chance to interact with art it makes for a more lasting memory,” Burton explains. “It also gives artists the opportunity to share their stories and for attendees to become a part of that story.”

After trying your hand at some of the interactive art stations, be sure to take a stroll down Brooks Alley, where you’ll find artists bringing their work to life right before your eyes. Explore the work of more than 80 fine art artists and craftspeople who are showcasing their talent at this year’s festival.

At this year's Bend Fall Festival, attendees can help create an art piece out of recycled materials.

Is A Cannabis Workers Union

work day. It wasn’t immediately embraced by employers, as evidenced by the decades it took to gain the support needed for passage. It wasn’t until 1916 that the Adamson Act passed, giving railroad workers both an 8-hour workday and overtime pay. Railroads were not happy, and challenged the Act in court, but the Supreme Court found in favor of the union in 1917.

This momentum propelled unions into other industries, and in 1938, the Fair Labor Standards Act was passed, which, per the Library of Congress, “including the creation of the right to a minimum wage, overtime pay for working more than 40 hours a week, and provisions related to child labor.” Many states began following suit, establishing their own minimum wage laws.

None of these changes came about quickly, easily or without substantial bloodshed and loss of life. The University of Washington estimates that between 1907 and 1974, there were over 170 deaths of International Workers of The World union members.

As cannabis has established itself as a regulated industry in many states, both in medical and recreational (Adult Use) programs, the number of people employed has skyrocketed. As Marijuana Moment reports, legal cannabis jobs nationwide have grown from 122,800 in 2017, to 440,445 in 2024.

During that same time period, Oregon’s Adult Use cannabis sales rose from over $420,000 in 2017 to over $950,000 in 2023, hitting a peak of

over $1 billion in 2020 and 2021. State statistics show that as of 2022 “7,671 people worked in the cannabis field in manufacturing, professional and business services, agriculture, trade, transportation, and warehousing, and other services.” The total number of Oregon Marijuana Worker Permits issued by February 2024 was 55,445. Measure 119 was crafted and supported by the State’s largest private sector union, United Food and Commercial Workers Local 555. Last year, the UFCW tried to pass a similar measure, but were thwarted by lawmakers fearing it would be in conflict with federal labor laws.

The re-worked measure would require a cannabis retailer or processor to sign and submit an agreement to the OLCC when applying for a new or renewed license. That agreement is known as “Labor Peace Agreement,” which Ballotpedia explains is “an agreement by which an applicant or licensee agrees to remain neutral with respect to the labor organization’s representatives communicating with the employees of the applicant or the licensee about the employees' rights.”

Failure to submit such an agreement, or to operate within the confines of said agreement, gives the OLCC the power to deny the application, both new and renewed. If that agreement is ended, the business has 10 days to agree to another, or risk a 10-day suspension of their license or a $1,650 fine. Cannabis license holders in California, Connecticut, New Jersey, New York, and Virginia must abide by similar agreements.

Thus far, the only contributor to 119 is the UFC 555, which donated $2.4 million as of July. Organized opposition has been nearly non-existent, although the state’s largest business trade group expressed concern last year that the efforts would run afoul of the Federal National Labor Relations Act. If cannabis were to pass rescheduling, that concern could be moot.

With Oregon’s continuing struggles with cratering cannabis prices, oversupply and soft sales, the inevitable increase in labor costs are a concern to some, but the lack of opponents may well see 119’s passage in November.

34.  Site from Sugarloaf Mountain 35.  Cluster of stars?

36.  "Workin' for a Livin'" singer Lewis

37.  Like, now

38.  Gus Walz, to Tim

39.  Like some skink tails

41.  Flash in the summer sky (NBA, NHL)

45.  Campaign's assistant

46.  Feminist Wolf

49.  Scholarship metric

52.  Ski bunny's rental

56.  "I got you, ___"

57.  Two-horse wager

59.  Fast-spreading success (NHL, MLS)

61.  ___ potatoes

62.  Lady Tigers sch.

63.  Birthplace of nearly all the world's major religions

64.  Big business

65.  Seashell seller in tongue twisters

66.  Transitional word

By Brendan Emmett Quigley

Pearl’s Puzzle

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

ANSWER TO LAST WEEK'S PUZZLES

The highlighted letters read left to right and top to bottom will “A short summary of every Jewish holiday: ‘They tried to kill - Alan King

Answer for the week of September 23, 2024

Citizen leader?

His and her

Schlemiel's kvetch

Trouble

5.  Beastie Boys song that begins "'Cause you can't, you won't, and you don't stop"

6.  Massachusetts senator Elizabeth

7.  Prayer period

8.  Vichy showers locations

9.  "I'll have to think about that ..."

10.  Hold a grudge

11.  Type of sunglasses

12.  Queen nicknamed "The grandmother of Europe"

13.  Benevolent people

18.  Single statistic

22.  Treat in the middle of a Peanut Butter Blossom cookie

25.  Haunt

26.  Jet bombs, at times: Abbr.

27.  Scratch

28.  Put into action

29.  Janitor's prop

30.  Scratch

31.  Burn balm

32.  Talking Heads bassist Weymouth

36.  "The Phenomenology of Spirit" philosopher

37.  Actress Gunn of "Breaking Bad"

39.  Divested (of)

40.  Plied with Pinot

42.  Martial arts/meditation practice

43.  Couple of pointers?

44.  Children's drawing game

47.  Madame Tussaud

48.  "Let me clarify ..."

49.  "Ain't nobody got time for that," e.g.

50.  Thing you might bring a crib to

51.  Symptom of laryngitis

53.  Birds with swivel heads

54.  Serving of guacamole

55.  Stamp backing

58.  Fruity beverage

60.  Budgetary excess

ASTROLOGY

By Rob Brezsny

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): On those infrequent occasions when I buy a new gadget, I never read the instructions. I drop the booklet in the recycling bin immediately, despite the fact that I may not know all the fine points of using my new vacuum cleaner, air purifier, or hairdryer. Research reveals that I am typical. Ninety-two percent of all instructions get thrown away. I don't recommend this approach to you in the coming weeks, however, whether you're dealing with gadgets or more intangible things. You really should call on guidance to help you navigate your way through introductory phases and new experiences.

might be tonifying, invigorating addictions—and then retrain yourself to focus your addictive energy on them. Maybe you could encourage an addiction to juices that blend spinach, cucumber, kale, celery, and apple. Perhaps you could cultivate an addiction to doing a pleasurable form of exercise or reading books that thrill your imagination.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): I knew a Scorpio performance artist who did a splashy public show about private matters. She stationed herself on the rooftop of an apartment building and for 12 hours loudly described everything she felt guilty about. (She was an ex-Catholic who had been raised to regard some normal behavior as sinful.) If you, dear Scorpio, have ever felt an urge to engage in a purge of remorse, now would be an excellent time. I suggest an alternate approach, though. Spend a half hour writing your regrets on paper, then burn the paper in the kitchen sink as you chant something like the following: “With love and compassion for myself, I apologize for my shortcomings and frailties. I declare myself free of shame and guilt. I forgive myself forever.”

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): Be HEARTY, POTENT, and DYNAMIC, Sagittarius. Don't worry about decorum and propriety. Be in quest of lively twists that excite the adventurer in you. Avoid anyone who seems to like you best when you are anxious or tightly controlled. Don't proceed as if you have nothing to lose; instead, act as if you have everything to win. Finally, my dear, ask life to bring you a steady stream of marvels that make you overjoyed to be alive. If you’re feeling extra bold (and I believe you will), request the delivery of a miracle or two.

ARIES (March 21-April 19): During some Wiccan rituals, participants are asked, “What binds you? And what will you do to free yourself from what binds you?” I recommend this exercise to you right now, Aries. Here’s a third question: Will you replace your shackles with a weaving that inspires and empowers you? In other words, will you shed what binds you and, in its stead, create a bond that links you to an influence you treasure?

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): If I had to name the zodiac sign that other signs are most likely to underestimate, I would say Taurus. Why? Well, many of you Bulls are rather modest and humble. You prefer to let your practical actions speak louder than fine words. Your well-grounded strength is diligent and poised, not flashy. People may misread your resilience and dependability as signs of passivity. But here’s good news, dear Taurus: In the coming weeks, you will be less likely to be undervalued and overlooked. Even those who have been ignorant of your appeal may tune in to the fullness of your tender power and earthy wisdom.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): Nineteenth-century Capricorn author Anne Brontë wrote The Tenant of Wildfell Hall, which many critics regard as the first feminist novel. It challenged contemporary social customs. The main character, Helen, leaves her husband because he's a bad influence on their son. She goes into hiding, becoming a single mother who supports her family by creating art. Unfortunately, after the author’s death at a young age, her older sister Charlotte suppressed the publication of The Tenant of Wildfell Hall. It's not well-known today. I bring this to your attention, Capricorn, so as to inspire you to action. I believe the coming months will be a favorable time to get the attention and recognition you've been denied but thoroughly deserve. Start now! Liberate, express, and disseminate whatever has been suppressed.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): What is the most important question you want to find an answer for during the next year? The coming weeks will be an excellent time to formulate that inquiry clearly and concisely. I urge you to write it out in longhand and place it in a prominent place in your home. Ponder it lightly and lovingly for two minutes every morning upon awakening and each night before sleep. (Key descriptors: “lightly and lovingly.”) As new insights float into your awareness, jot them down. One further suggestion: Create or acquire a symbolic representation of the primal question.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): Scientific research suggests that some foods are more addictive than cocaine. They include pizza, chocolate, potato chips, and ice cream. The good news is that they are not as problematic for long-term health as cocaine. The bad news is that they are not exactly healthy. (The sugar in chocolate neutralizes its modest health benefits.) With these facts in mind, Pisces, I invite you to re-order your priorities about addictive things. Now is a favorable time to figure out what substances and activities

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): In the coming days, I invite you to work on writing an essay called "People and Things I Never Knew I Liked and Loved Until Now." To get the project started, visit places that have previously been off your radar. Wander around in uncharted territory, inviting life to surprise you. Call on every trick you know to stimulate your imagination and break out of habitual ruts of thinking. A key practice will be to experiment and improvise as you open your heart and your eyes wide. Here’s my prophecy: In the frontiers, you will encounter unruly delights that inspire you to grow wiser.

CANCER (June 21-July 22): Now is an excellent time to search for new teachers, mentors, and role models. Please cooperate with life’s intention to connect you with people and animals who can inspire your journey for the months and years ahead. A good way to prepare yourself for this onslaught of grace is to contemplate the history of your educational experiences. Who are the heroes, helpers, and villains who have taught you crucial lessons? Another strategy to get ready is to think about what’s most vital for you to learn right now. What are the gaps in your understanding that need to be filled?

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): The English language has more synonyms than any other language. That's in part because it's like a magpie. It steals words from many tongues, including German, French, Old Norse, Latin, and Greek, as well as from Algonquin, Chinese, Hindi, Basque, and Tagalog. Japanese may be the next most magpie-like language. It borrows from English, Chinese, Portuguese, Dutch, French, and German. In accordance with astrological possibilities, I invite you to adopt the spirit of the English and Japanese languages in the coming weeks. Freely borrow and steal influences. Be a collector of sundry inspirations, a scavenger of fun ideas, a gatherer of rich cultural diversity.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Here are my bold decrees: You are entitled to extra bonuses and special privileges in the coming weeks. The biggest piece of every cake and pie should go to you, as should the freshest wonders, the most provocative revelations, and the wildest breakthroughs. I invite you to give and take extravagant amounts of everything you regard as sweet, rich, and nourishing. I hope you will begin cultivating a skill you are destined to master. I trust you will receive clear and direct answers to at least two nagging questions.

Homework: Interested in my inside thoughts about astrology? Read my book “Astrology Is Real.” Free excerpts: https://tinyurl.com/BraveBliss

AWAKENING YOUR INNER HERO

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

By Burt Gershater

A Few More Random Love Stories

Random? I don’t think so.

My last name, Gershater, is not a common one. Most people haven’t bumped into a Gershater prior to our “randomly” meeting someplace. It didn’t take long to learn that nobody knows how to spell it. Invariably, when I’m asked my name, the response is some version of, “Would you please spell that for me?” And I do, like I’ve done since before I can remember… more on that later.

For the past three-plus years, Wendy and I have gone to Bend’s Larkspur Community or Juniper Swim & Fitness centers to work out three to five days a week. There is a life-saving Super Stretch class on Wednesdays and Sundays, weightlifting of all kinds, stationary bikes, gliding along on cross-country skis and rowing machines. There are yoga classes, dance classes and personal trainers, and recently we’ve been enjoying the brewed coffees, teas and irresistible freshly baked muffins. The Larkspur and Juniper community centers have been life-changers for us.

But I haven’t even begun to tell you the biggest life-changer that these recreation centers have brought me: new, super-cool, dear friends!

It took a little time, but as you probably already know, time flies. And if you haven’t already figured it out from my previous writings, I am not a total introvert. Nearly every time I contact another club member, even if we’ve never met before, I greet them with a friendly “Good morning!” And more than 99% of the time there is a truly, although sometimes surprised, appreciative and equal response, “Good morning to you!”

Over these years of friendly hellos and all kinds of physical-spiritual exercising, sweet conversations enter the scene. One conversation leads to another and then another.

Beautiful friendships have emerged. Morning greetings have become way more than routine greetings to fellow club members. Now they are warm greetings to dear friends. Time has flown, and love seeds planted a few years ago have taken deep roots. Friendships have flourished and flowered immeasurably. Tender, personal stories are shared in between our sometimes-strenuous workout routines. We

gather around the water fountain or converse as we take laps around the indoor track. People regularly slow down their own pace in order to walk and talk with a friend who needs a supportive walking cane, or another who is rolling along in their wheelchair.

These are truly love stories.

Buddies of all genders and ages.

From middle agers to older agers.

From unable-to-walk to triathletes.

We have dedicated Christians, dedicated Jews, dedicated wonderful souls from all different backgrounds.

Some were adopted, some were abused and some blessedly tenderly loved.

We share our stories.

There are daily warm handshakes and hugs, and eye-to-eye contact clearly expressing our affection.

Love stories are available every where we go and sometimes we are the authors…or at least the co-authors.

When you go into one of the centers, you have to check in at the front desk. Most people have a little card that gets scanned, then you hear a beep and you let them know what you’re doing this visit. I have a card but never use it. I like to sign in personally with the front desk person. They ask for my name and I slowly spell it for them. It’s what I’ve always done. One of my dear uncles changed his name from Gershater to Green to simplify his life. Not us.

Over time, most of the desk greet ers, remembering me and how to spell Gershater, check me in automatically as I walk through the front door. With a warm, welcoming smile, they say, “I got you.” I give them a knuckle tap and walk upstairs.

Recently, when I came in the front door for my love-exercise workout, the greeter smiled and said, “I got you.” I paused and said, “Can you spell my name backwards?” She paused and said slowly, laughing all the way, “r-e-t-a-hs-r-e-G.”

We bumped fists and I began my Larkspur morning ready for more love stories.

We are all authors.

Write on!

- Burt Gershater is a local counselor, lead ership trainer, speaker and writer. He can be reached at info@burtgershater.com

THE ELECTION ISSUE

in the heart of Central Oregon, where community values run deep and voices matter most, our special election issue is your platform to connect with engaged constituents like never before. With a dedicated print readership of 38,000 strong, our publication offers unparalleled reach and influence.

miss this opportunity to amplify your message and make a lasting impression on our community.

miss this special issue filled with holiday magic and all sorts of fun and helpful info for this Holiday season, winter and the New Year! Here is a sneak peak of the magic inside the issue:

Lovingly maintained, unassuming 4-bedroom Westside cottage with beautiful, bright ADU sits above 1100 sf 2 car garage. Designed for privacy, this property has a whimsical, fenced-in backyard with a patio, Spa, old-growth Ponderosa pines, easy to maintain turf & colorful landscaping on a drip-system. The 1-bedroom ADU boasts a sunny deck with views of Lava Butte & the Old Mill Smokestacks & an open oor-plan with cathedral ceilings. Situated on a dead-end street with driveways in the front & through Dog Alley, there is plenty of parking, little tra c & easy access. Walkable to downtown & the River Trail, this is an old Bend gem with upgrades. The 1458 sf main home was remodeled in 2018 with 2 full bathrooms, slab quartz countertops, new appliances, on-demand hot water heater, gas heat stove and an open oor plan. The roof was replaced in 2023 when the 97% peak e ciency solar system was installed. Turnkey & ready for someone to enjoy, this home on 1.5 lots is sure to please.

TAKE ME HOME

By James Keane Broker RE/MAX Key Properties

Buying ‘As Is’ Property

What to consider

When exploring the real estate market, you may encounter properties listed for sale in "as is" condition. This means the seller is selling the property in its current condition, without making any repairs or address ing existing issues. While this might seem risky, there are potential bene fits and considerations to weigh before deciding to make such a purchase.

One of the primary advantages of buying an "as is" property is the poten tial for a faster transaction. Without the need for back-and-forth negotia tions over repairs or credits, the clos ing process can be expedited. This is particularly beneficial for buyers who need to move quickly or sellers who are eager to sell. Additionally, you may be able to secure a lower purchase price due to the property's condition.

However, it's crucial to approach this type of purchase with caution. A thor ough inspection is essential to identify any potential defects or issues that could require costly repairs. Consulting with a qualified inspector can provide valuable insights into the property's condition and help you make an informed deci sion. Most inspectors are very familiar with common issues in homes built in certain time periods, or issues that are common with certain builders. Beyond using an inspector, one should be ready to call in additional professionals to inspect the home’s systems.

A comprehensive inspection should include an assessment of the plumb ing, electrical, foundation, roof, HVAC system and other critical components of the property. This will help you understand the extent of any necessary repairs and their associated costs.

By purchasing an "as is" property, you could customize the property to your preferences. You can add your personal touches and create a space that reflects

your unique style. This can be a reward ing experience, as you can transform the property into your dream home.

Another factor to consider is financ ing. Lenders may be more hesitant to