The Source Weekly February 13, 2025

PacifiCorp was grossly negligent in Oregon’s 2020 wildfires. Now it’s asking lawmakers for protection.

Deschutes County Discontinues DEI Ken's Artisan Pizza Set to Open Winter Beer Fest at Suttle Lodge GUIDES INSIDE!

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Alternative Weekly Network 916-551-1770 NEVER MISS AN ISSUE!

Last week may have been our Valentine’s issue — our hope was to help you prepare for a lovely day with your significant other or BFF(s) — but this week still includes a few more romantic suggestions to warm you up during these cold days.

The world never stops turning and this week's issue has significant news from our team: Investigative reporter Jennifer Baires interviews the Latino Community Association’s new executive director about impending challenges, while reporter Julianna LaFollette covers Deschutes County’s decision to discontinue its DEI program and a local protest against Trump’s policies. We’ve got the foodie news on when Ken’s Artisan Pizza will open (hot tip: very soon!) and Blissful Spoon’s transformation into the Moroccan-inspired Papillon on select evenings. Our feature delves into PacifiCorp’s “gross negligence” in the lead-up to the 2020 Labor Day fires and the money that’s owed local land and homeowners, with reporting provided by the Oregon Journalism Project.

Looking ahead, we’ve got our Spring Arts & Culture preview around the corner and we’d love to share your events. If you’re an organization, gallery or theater with upcoming spring performances, showings or openings, please submit your event to our calendar online. We also just launched our Central Oregon Pets photo contest. Of course you think your pet is the cutest in all the land, but what do the people think? Submit your photo by Feb. 23 — peep our Instagram for more info and the link to vote!

LIGHTMETER:

“Last weekend felt like the true start of winter here in Bend and I’ve thoroughly enjoyed getting to explore my new neighborhood on foot. Here are a few of my favorite photographs from the past few days.”

Thank you so much @nickraz00 for tagging us in this lovely winter scene from a neighborhood stroll.

Don't forget to share your photos with us and tag @sourceweekly for a chance to be featured as our Instagram photo of the week.

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One Way to Make People Hate Alternative Transportation

Ah, road construction. No matter when it comes, or how long it delays us, it’s going to be a perennial source of conversation. But this month, with the double whammy of lots of snow and the closure of key streets that allow Bendites to get around the center of town, the City of Bend has outdone itself. If you’ve been downtown in recent weeks, you’ve seen it: lines of cars and trucks, backed up on Greenwood Avenue as far as the eye can see. Turning into the fray from Harriman or other side streets? Forget about it.

help the city manage the inevitable addition of more traffic as the city grows. We still believe in the “if you build it, they will come” model of encouraging people to get out of their cars to access the city core. And, it seems, voters believed in it enough, too, when they supported that GO! bond and all its active transportation projects.

The traffic snarls are a combination of a “road diet” on Greenwood that limited the formerly two-lane, each-way road to one way, each way with a turning lane and the closure of the Olney and Wall intersection just north of downtown. This all means that drivers coming from the west side have few options but Newport/Greenwood or Reed Market to get into the downtown core. Those coming from the east side are also limited to Greenwood or the single lanes that are Franklin Avenue. It’s a mess.

City officials say the closure of Olney and Wall — to be under construction until June! — is necessary to not only add in the pedestrian and bike safety features that voters supported under the Transportation GO! Bond, but also for water and sewer improvements that could not be put off any longer.

But all drivers are going to remember is that the projects aimed at improving transportation for everyone NOT in cars is creating a maelstrom in downtown Bend. And this will go on for months.

Don’t get us wrong. We are in support of expanding access to all forms of transportation — biking, walking, rolling, bussing and carpooling — that can

Still, this all feels like the perfect storm. The rollout of so many traffic-snarling endeavors at once, which leaves Greenwood being the only major arterial for getting in or out of downtown, or to evacuate in an emergency, is certainly one way to radicalize people against alternative forms of transportation all together.

Traffic calming, as city officials have patiently tried to explain, is going to come with some discomfort. But this is not uncomfortable. It’s painful and it makes people downright angry.

Right now, the road diet efforts on Greenwood Avenue consist of several plastic barriers intended to designate a bike lane from the one lane of traffic going each way. Would it be so difficult, during this time of increased pressure on Greenwood, to temporarily remove those barriers and to return the street to two lanes, in the name of safety, as some of our readers have suggested? Cities elsewhere employ strategies to move cars in and out of downtown areas at certain times of the day. What if one lane for cars going one way in the morning might be changed, via signs and signals, to two or more lanes at night, for example.

We are not traffic engineers, but we do keep a pulse on the mood of the city. And right now, going over voters’ pain threshold is a good way to get people to abandon their support of projects like the GO! bond, now and in the future.

OUR VALUES UNITE US

The actions coming out of Washington, and more recently out of our County Commission, are causing anxiety and fear among many of our neighbors, especially the members of our Latino community and other underrepresented groups. We’ll all need to work together here in Bend to find ways to deal with those actions and to protect the interests of everyone in this beautiful community we call home.

To do that, we all need to lean on the common values that unite us — fairness, freedom, kindness and generosity.

We all expect to be treated fairly, and we don’t like it when we someone else or another group is not. And we all cherish the freedoms guaranteed to us in the U.S. Constitution.

Bend’s special culture also reflects the values of kindness and generosity. We’re a welcoming city, proudly sporting bumper stickers that say: “Be Nice, You’re In Bend.” In the store, we’re usually greeted with, “How’s your day going” or “Got anything fun planned?” And, we’re a city of community-minded people — volunteering in support of others, through city government, neighborhood associations, schools and the wide array of nonprofit organizations.

There are plenty of ways — big and small — that each of us can fight back against injustice, strengthen the shared values of our community and support our most vulnerable neighbors. We can find connection by getting involved in community groups that are helping others facing challenges or uncertainty.

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!

There are dozens of them, covering a wide range of categories.

A good place to start is a website called Volunteer Match (volunteermatch.org), where you can find a fit with your personal interests. You can also stick closer to home by volunteering at your kids’ school or helping out with their sports teams. Or even just organize a book club with some friends.

In the coming months and years, let’s remember a few important things:

• Separate the thunder from the lightning. Don’t overreact to rumors, provocative public statements or threats.

• Be bold and courageous in advocacy for what you believe in, but avoid public confrontations that don’t reflect our shared values.

• Seek understanding. If you have questions, get information from sources you trust. And look for a balance of views.

We’re a strong community with a solid sense of who we are and where we’re going. The Envision Bend action plan says it well:

“We envision a greater Bend that blends its smalltown friendliness and exceptional quality of life with the amenities of a growing city, helping all our residents lead safe, secure lives of purpose and possibility in a rapidly changing world.”

By following that vision and working together we can continue to be a community where neighbors can find common ground while respecting differences, where families are safe and thriving and where we live the shared values that unite us.

—Lou Capozzi

LEADERSHIP

Donald Trump holds the top leadership position in the United States. But he is not a leader. Donald Trump is a divider and hater. He hates minorities, immigrants, LGBTQ, civil servants and many others. Not only does he hate them, he is punishing them out of vengeance and spite. That is not a leader. There certainly is waste in government, and it is commendable to root it out. But wholesale closures and firings do more harm than good. Consider firing a farmer and expecting crops to grow and harvest without him. Civil servants are the best source of information regarding waste. Be a leader and work with them, not punish them.

—James Scott

GREENWOOD ROAD DIET

I’ve been noticing a slew of folks (media included) throwing the Greenwood Road Diet under the bus. This despite no slowdown in emergency response times, a reduction in average speed, a reduction of accidents and better pedestrian safety. (Plus, I haven’t seen a side mirror in the road in ages.) When Portland and Olney are closed for construction during a snowstorm that ground the city to a halt, OF COURSE it’s those two missing lanes for three blocks that have caused even porcupines to miscarry and bald eagles to dive headfirst into the nearest fire pit. FOR SHAME!

Bring back the original Greenwood? I have a better idea! Let’s get rid of angle

parking downtown and turn Bond or Wall into a Greenwood clone in its former “glory.” Let’s see how THEY like cars blasting by at 50 mph straight past their wine bars and boutique shops while people throw themselves out of the way of oncoming traffic. You know why that would never happen? Because it would be awful for business, just like the original Greenwood was awful for us. In all seriousness, I want to thank City Council for helping make customers to my place and others on Greenwood feel safe and heard.

—John Heylin, Unofficial Logging Co.

Letter of the Week:

John, I appreciate you sharing your first-hand perspective on this sometimes-divisive matter — thank you.

—Chris Young

Directed by Desi Thrower

Wyden Co-Sponsors Bipartisan Bill to Keep Ski Fees Local

On Feb. 10, Sen. Ron Wyden — alongside numerous Republican colleagues from the U.S. House and Senate — announced he is co-sponsoring legislation that would keep ski fees local by allowing National Forests to keep a portion of annual fees paid by ski areas operating on U.S. Forest Service lands.

Ski areas currently operating on forest lands pay fees to the Forest Service, averaging more than $40 million annually, according to a press release. The Ski Hill Resources for Economic Development Act (SHRED) would establish a framework for local National Forests to keep a portion of the ski fees to offset the impact of recreational use.

“Oregon is rich in natural splendor and outdoor recreation opportunities,” Wyden said in a press release. “It’s important to nurture this wealth of public lands by ensuring recreational funds that are paid locally stay local. This will help us better address Oregon’s specific needs around wildfire mitigation, visitation impacts and housing shortages.

—Julianna

LaFollette

$6 million

—The amount of jury-awarded damages PacifiCorp owes to 1,500 individual plaintiffs, many of whom lost homes in the 2020 Labor Day fires, from the Feature story, “After the Inferno”

Bend Residents Protest Trump Policies

Community members joined nationwide “50 States” protest in downtown Bend

By Julianna LaFollette

Community members showed up in downtown Bend on Feb. 5 to join a nationwide protest against President Donald Trump. In snow and 20-degree weather, demonstrators carried signs and waved flags in solidarity against early actions and policies being carried out by the Trump administration.

People across the nation participated in the “50 States” protest, which gained momentum on social media platforms this week. Protests in Portland and at the Oregon State Capitol in Salem brought out hundreds of Oregonians, according to OPB, opposing deportation efforts and attempts to restrict transgender rights, among other issues.

Many Bend protestors saw the demonstration as a chance to show up for their community, including Bend resident Shawn Sweetman.

“We all have, maybe, slightly different reasons, but I think they all center around the fact that our ability to represent ourselves in this country is being taken away,” Sweetman told the Source Weekly.

Mother and daughter, Dee Combs and Emily Hoy, said that participating in efforts like this are important to them, and can make a difference.

“The purpose, for me, is to let the powers that be know that they can’t stomp all over us and other people,” said Combs. Kris Solis, a Bend community member, sees peaceful protests as a way for people to connect and know they have allies with common ground.

“The more we do these kinds of things, the more we can see that we can come together as a community, Solis told the Source

Weekly. “When we come together like this, we see we have allies, we have friends, and its worth getting out here and connecting and doing this.”

At Wednesday’s Bend City Council meeting, Mayor Melanie Kebler addressed the community about actions at the federal level, and its impacts to the Bend community.

In Kebler’s statement, she emphasized that the council is committed to fostering a welcoming environmental for all individuals, while addressing attacks on the immigrant community, DEI policies and other community members.

“I firmly believe the purported values of the administration are not the values of the vast majority of the Bend community. They are not our Oregon values. They are not the values of this Council. To all those who are targeted and scapegoated right now — we see you. We support you. And we will continue to speak up for your human rights,” said Kebler on Wednesday.

Deschutes County Discontinues DEI Program

Deschutes

County

Commissioners vote to dismantle DEI committee, fearing repercussions from federal anti-DEI mandate

By Julianna LaFollette

The Deschutes County Board of Commissioners voted 2-1 on Feb. 5 to discontinue its Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Access Committee, which worked on issues including pay disparities between male and female county employees, improving access for hearing and visually impaired residents and other accessibility initiatives. The decision comes after orders from President Trump to shut down federal DEI efforts. These executive orders, however, do not specifically reach to state and local levels at this time.

County staff members, including Commissioner Phil Chang, and many residents who provided feedback to the Commission, see the work as important and the decision as premature. Chang also saw the decision as rushed, given that the discussion about the future of the committee was added to the Wednesday meeting agenda late Monday afternoon.

around a future push to eliminate local DEI efforts, Chang believes the county could’ve deflected federal pressures and continued the committee.

Before the meeting, Deschutes County Health Services Director Janice Garceau sent a letter to commissioners summarizing the committee’s efforts and importance.

The letter stated that the potential impact of the decision on staff and programs was significant and listed a number of achievements. They include improvements in language access for non-English speakers, improving access to services for hearing, mobility and visually impaired individuals and helping to address staff concerns to improve staff retention, among others.

“We are living in a time of wildfire, and the risks are overwhelming. We need the utilities to be there.”

—Rep. Pam Marsh (D-Ashland), from the Feature story, “After the Inferno”

The Committee’s focus, since its creation in 2023, was to represent the diversity of the community it serves, while fostering a diverse, equitable, inclusive and accessible culture for all employees and community members, according to a county DEIA Action Plan.

At the board meeting, Commissioner Tony DeBone, who voted to dismantle the committee along with Commissioner Patti Adair, argued that the County already shares many of the DEI committee’s intentions in its goals and objectives. Therefore, he doesn’t see a need for continuing the committee.

Adair said most of the committee’s work should be happening within the county’s Human Resources department. However, the main driver for ending the committee, according to Adair, was the fear of losing federal funds.

“We’re following the president from the top… the federal government is in charge of a lot of funding that comes to Deschutes County, and I would hate to lose it,” she said at the meeting.

During the brief discussion, Commissioner Chang pushed back, questioning the purpose of dissolving the committee.

“I think that this is an entirely unnecessary decision and I’m extremely disappointed that it was sprung on me,” Chang told the Source Weekly. “It’s really unfortunate we’ve gotten swept up in national politics, and it will result in less good provision of services to Deschutes County.”

As there are no specific DEI-related mandates for the county, and the decision seems to be based on concerns

The committee also worked to address issues identified in a recent internal audit completed within the county, which found continued pay disparities between male and female employees and a lower retention of women of color. The committee sought to prioritize those issues in its 2025 draft work plan, obtained by the Source Weekly.

Garceau called the decision premature, stating that there are no current requirements to get rid of programming at the state and local level. She noted that if President Trump’s executive orders on DEI are challenged, the county’s decision could potentially have to be rolled back.

“That seems like a reactive and unnecessary step, not to mention impractical in the long run,” she wrote in the letter.

While Chang said there may not be job losses as a direct result of this decision, he worries this “anti-DEI push” will result in less commitment to maintaining certain positions supported by the committee.

In response to the county’s decision, Bend City Councilor Megan Perkins addressed the attacks on DEI at a recent City Council meeting, stating that the City will maintain its work in diversity, equity and inclusion.

“I want to be clear: The President doesn’t get to decide or stop the important work that we are doing in our community,” she said. “None of the work that our equity department or the Human Rights and Equity Commission does divides us; it expands our views and makes us better. We will continue this work because it is the right thing to do.”

Julianna LaFollette

Latino Community Association’s New Executive Director

Sees Challenging Times Ahead

Catalina Sánchez Frank was named the head of the LCA in January, just as the U.S. experienced major shifts in immigration policy

By Jennifer Baires

When Catalina Sánchez Frank applied for the executive director position at the Latino Community Association (LCA) in Bend, she had no idea how much the U.S. presidential election would impact the role.

A longtime volunteer with the organization, Sánchez Frank joined LCA a decade ago when she first moved to Bend and was seeking community. Originally from Colombia, Sánchez Frank’s family migrated to the U.S. a quarter-century ago at a particularly dangerous time during the South American country’s decades-long civil war.

Before Bend and volunteering with LCA, Sánchez Frank worked as a product manager in California — a background she imagined would help her elevate LCA’s mission of empowering Latino families and creating opportunities for advancement for more people in Central Oregon.

After a six-month long hiring process, Sánchez Frank started on Jan. 16, four days before President Donald Trump took office, in a completely different political climate from the one when her hiring process began. Gone, she said, was the hope that she’d have time to orient herself in the role before being thrown into the spotlight. A flurry of executive orders, directives and proclamations quickly followed Trump’s inauguration, challenging established refugee programs and vastly changing immigration — specifically at the southern border, where Trump declared an “invasion” was occurring.

Following these changes, the Source Weekly spoke

“What we didn’t expect was only three days after the inauguration, we’d have our first deportation case coming from Bend.”

—CATALINA SÁNCHEZ FRANK

with Sánchez Frank about how she’s organizing workers and volunteers at the Latino Community Association to respond to the moment and the concerns many migrants in Central Oregon have expressed.

Source Weekly: What were you imagining you would be doing before the election, and how did that change?

Catalina Sánchez Frank: I was dreaming of the position. I just said to my team, before I was hired, “I can’t wait to come see how you’re doing things, how to get to know what you’re doing for the community, and how we can improve on that and become stronger and provide better service to our clients.”

My first day was Jan. 16, just a few days before the inauguration. We knew things were going to happen, especially here in Central Oregon. In general, where there’s polarization on how people view the immigration issue, there’s going to be conflict. What we didn’t expect was only three days after the inauguration, we’d have our first deportation case coming from Bend. Word spread out in the community rather quickly through social media and text messages. The fear is real. That’s what shifted.

SW: How did you respond to those initial reports of Immigration and Customs Enforcement officers

being in Bend?

CSF: With that first case, people wanted to confirm the rumors. Was it a raid? Are they in Central Oregon? Who are they after? Are they going to come for our families? Can we send our kids to school? Can we go to church? Another thing I’ve learned in these past two weeks, is that the Latino Community Association is positioned as a credible source of information in the community. We had to quickly connect to organizations and partners that could help us verify if the rumors were true.

SW: Is it important to verify so that you don’t have unnecessary fear or misinformation in the community?

CSF: Yes, that’s exactly what it is. We can’t control the spread of the news, but at least try to reaffirm that they [ICE] can’t be here doing things that are unlawful. We’re protected by the sanctuary laws, right now, and trying to keep people from spreading misinformation is very important to us. Also, because if we can confirm whether there is a threat, then we can escalate those cases because we have access to legal representation.

Editor’s note: Oregon’s sanctuary law dictates that state and local police and government agencies can’t help federal authorities with immigration and enforcement directly, or indirectly, without a judicial warrant.

SW: Given the concern and worry you’re hearing from Latinos in Central Oregon, how is the association working to reach community members and offer support or education when it feels like gathering could be difficult or raise the possibility of being a target for ICE?

CSF: We have an ICE response policy in place for employees. And we got approved to teach staff if something were to happen in our offices, what they needed to see, like the warrant orders signed by the judge in order for ICE to be able to access the premises. We remind them to know their cards — cards that remind people that they have the right to remain silent, that we cannot expect justice.

We’re working on relaunching in-person meetings with partners like school districts to see what they’re doing, and how we can support those families that have students that are afraid to go to school, or whose parents are afraid to send their kids to school. So, working on building those relationships with the law enforcement, also the sheriffs’ departments, and establishing those communications… I might sound very scattered, but there’s a lot going on that we’re planning on how to outreach to the community.

Events that were probably public and in person, we’re moving back to virtual. We’re starting to find ways to create conversation. Perhaps in the form of Facebook Lives. Because we don’t want to gather everyone in one space. There’s a high concern about how security

is going to impact the way we do events also. Thinking ahead, we might not have Latino Fest this year.

SW: What would you like people to know about the LCA?

CSF: The Latino Community Association has been here 25 years. I think we’re well known by the people we serve. We are definitely in a region that is predominantly white, and there are disparities in access to services and wealth. The political climate right now makes it more evident that some people may not want the immigrant population here. I cannot speak as to what the economic impact is from Latino immigrants to Central Oregon, because I do not have those statistics. But if you think about who is in the construction sites, in the landscaping business for the golf courses that are here, who are the folks who are the cleaning services at hotels, at homes… it is an important piece of how our community works. And maybe, I would invite people to think a little bit about that. When you live here and you play here, who are the people helping you?

—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.

Para acceder una versión de esta historia en español, escanea el código QR con la cámara de su teléfono.

Catalina Sánchez Frank, recently hired executive director of the Latino Community Association.

LCA

Cold Weather and City Goals

By Julianna LaFollette

Cold Weather Preparation in Redmond

With snow on the ground and the weather calling for extreme cold temperatures in the coming days, including single-digit and sub-zero temperatures in some areas, Deschutes County advises people to stay warm and take precautions.

A cold weather advisory covers Central Oregon, with record cold temperatures possible in Madras, Redmond, Sisters and Sunriver.

Deschutes County Public Health, in coordination with community partners across the region, offered a list of warming shelters and encourages anyone who does not have adequate heating to visit one during these extreme weather conditions, according to a press release.

In the City of Redmond, people can find shelter at Shepherd’s House Ministries and the Redmond Library.

Mayor Ed Fitch Addressed Community at State of the City

On Feb. 6, Mayor Ed Fitch presented the annual State of the City address at Redmond City Hall, reflecting on the past year, providing updates on city projects and looking at priorities for 2025.

In a press release, Fitch added, “I again look forward to sharing the challenges we face as a community, how the city is working to manage growth and providing the community with quality services through transparency and an open government. ”

Fitch shared focus areas for the city, including fiscal responsibility, quality of life, economic vitality, public safety and environmental stewardship. Fitch also provided an overview of priorities such as infrastructure, affordable housing and water conservation initiatives, among others.

The City of Redmond launched a poll, asking

residents to solicit input on City Council priorities. People are encouraged to complete the poll and submit comments by Feb. 15.

AFROBEAT DANCE CLASS

LEARN AFRICAN DANCE RHYTHMS

Hosted by performer and instructor Fode Sylla, come learn a fusion of traditional and modern-day African-derived movements. Students and community members will learn popular Afro-beat moves and classic West African steps. Thu., Feb. 13, 6-7:30pm at COCC Redmond Technology Education Center. 2324 SE College Lp., Redmond. Free.

COOKBOOK CLUB DINNER PARTY

BON APPETIT!

Join local home chefs for a potluck cooked from a different cookbook each month at Redmond’s Cookbook Club. Meet great people, enjoy delicious wine and share fabulous food. Choose your recipe during the monthly happy hour on the second Tuesday of each month, then bring your dish to the dinner party every third Tuesday. Tue., Feb. 18, 6-8pm at Arome. 432 SW Sixth St., Redmond. $15.

Julianna laFollette

Pexels

PacifiCorp was grossly negligent in Oregon’s 2020 wildfires. Now it’s asking lawmakers for protection.

By Jeff Manning, Oregon Journalism Project

Kathleen Becherer, 77, retired in 2014 to the Santiam River Canyon, where she hoped for a life filled with “bees, goats and grandkids.”

That dream was incinerated in September 2020. The Santiam Fire, which burned 400,000 acres (almost half the size of Rhode Island), reduced her riverfront home to ash and nearly killed her. Becherer spent more than two weeks in the hospital.

Memories of that night — the jet-engine roar of the fire, her goats too frozen with fear to flee the burning barn — remain. “I still get nightmares,” she says.

The Santiam tragedy was part of the worst wildfire year in Oregon history. It killed five people, destroyed hundreds of homes and ravaged some of Oregon’s environmental treasures. It also cost the state hundreds of millions of dollars — not counting the health hazards that will linger for years. (Wildfires burned 1.9 million Oregon acres in 2024, eclipsing the 2020 record.)

Wildfires are Oregon’s most immediate existential crisis, creating economic, political and environmental challenges that state government is struggling to address. And the wildfires that recently destroyed parts of Los Angeles make clear this is not just an Oregon problem.

Although climate change and growing populations in forested areas are part of the reason for the threat, the role of electric utilities is also increasingly under the spotlight. Their transmission network of high voltage wires regularly causes fires — like the Eaton Fire that just burned Altadena, near Los Angeles.

Becherer and many of her neighbors in Gates and Detroit blame Portland-based PacifiCorp, the electric utility that serves much of rural Oregon, including the Santiam Valley, and is owned by Warren Buffett’s Berkshire Hathaway Energy.

Others are beginning to agree. In 2023, an Oregon jury found that PacifiCorp was reckless and acted with “gross negligence” in the lead-up to the 2020 Labor Day fires. The jury awarded damages that could eventually mean a $6 million payday for Becherer and each of the other 1,500 plaintiffs, which would make it the most costly litigation in Oregon history.

“The PacifiCorp litigation was a real sea change for the entire utility sector in the U.S.,” says professor Michael Wara, a utility expert at Stanford Law School.

“I like people, but I don’t like Pacific Power.”

—KATHLEEN BECHERER

“PacifiCorp went to trial assuming they would win, and they definitely assumed they would not be held grossly negligent.”

And in December, the U.S. Department of Justice added to PacifiCorp’s legal woes. The feds filed a $900 million civil lawsuit, claiming the utility’s negligence caused a different 2020 fire in Southern Oregon in the Umpqua River Basin.

Department of Justice lawyers said in the lawsuit that PacifiCorp and its subsidiary Pacific Power “have an established history of failing to satisfy basic safety standards and taking little action to remedy known safety issues.”

Despite the historic verdict, Becherer has yet to receive any money.

She’s not the only one. In the aftermath of the Santiam Fire, PacifiCorp has waged a campaign, in the

courts and now in the halls of the state Capitol, to reduce its financial obligation.

To be sure, forest fires shaped Oregon long before settlers arrived. But as the climate dries and fuel accumulates in the forests because of confusing state and federal policies, parts of rural Oregon become like tinder. And when utilities lag in their mitigation efforts, rural Oregon bears the brunt.

Reporting by the Oregon Journalism Project (OJP) into the tangled aftermath of the historic 2020 Labor Day fires found:

• Long before the fires, state and federal regulators regularly clashed with PacifiCorp over the condition of its transmission grid and its slipshod execution of some of the most basic fire prevention steps.

• Prior to the 2020 fires, despite internal warnings and pleas from senior state officials, PacifiCorp never used its ultimate weapon against wildfire — a power shutoff. That decision has thrown PacifiCorp’s survival into question.

• The 2023 Oregon jury verdict on behalf of Santiam Valley residents has given way to a war of attrition. Despite the verdict in their favor, plaintiffs may not get any money for years. PacifiCorp has appealed and insisted on new trials for each

Burned out school bus on north fork of Santiam River near Elkhorn.

Brian Burk

Kathleen Becherer.

Brian Burk

Kathleen Becherer and her goat, Sundance.

Brian Burk

individual fire victim to determine their damages.

• The fires have placed Oregon’s utilities at the center of a raging political debate taking place right now in Salem. As utilities grapple with growing demand from data centers and the push to green energy, anger at PacifiCorp in particular has done the near impossible — united conservatives and liberals who are fed up with the escalating cost of fire damage.

At the same time, Warren Buffett, who bought PacifiCorp in 2006, recently told shareholders his utility can’t pay for everything: “It will be many years until we know the final tally from forest fire losses and can intelligently make decisions about the desirability of future investments in vulnerable Western states.” Standard & Poor’s downgraded PacifiCorp’s credit rating in 2023 after the Oregon jury issued its stinging verdict.

“PacifiCorp’s No. 1 priority is the safety of our employees, customers and communities,” says utility spokeswoman Erin Isselmann. “PacifiCorp remains committed to effectively managing our system in the face of rising costs driven by wildfire risk, an increasing number of extreme weather events and a changing energy landscape.”

But now, OJP’s reporting shows, PacifiCorp wants to shift costs to Oregonians. What lawmakers do this legislative session will be consequential.

“PacifiCorp’s real hope,” state Rep. Jami Cate (R-Lebanon) says, “is that the Legislature will bail them out

and effectively absolve them of any wrongdoing.”

One month before Oregon’s fateful 2020 wildfires began, OJP has learned, the Oregon Public Utility Commission (PUC, the state agency that regulates electricity providers) sent a prescient letter to top PacifiCorp officials demanding that the utility improve its vegetation

“PacifiCorp’s real hope is that the Legislature will bail them out and effectively absolve them of any wrongdoing.”

—REP. JAMI CATE (R-LEBANON)

management program.

Vegetation management is utility-speak for basic fire prevention measures. In Oregon, utilities are required to regularly inspect their power lines and remove or trim adjacent trees and shrubs. When the lines touch or even get too close to the surrounding vegetation, they can arc, sending out a shower of sparks. The heat can grow intense enough that power lines shoot out shards of molten metal.

In Oregon, PUC staff inspects power lines, in part to check on whether the utilities are diligent in their vegetation management.

For much of the past decade, the PUC notified PacifiCorp of vegetation problems approximately 75 times a year. Those notifications steadily increased over the past decade and skyrocketed in 2019 and 2020 to 472 and 356, respectively.

“The long-term data shows the company’s vegetation management program is not adequately addressing the issue of tree contacts,” the PUC said in its July 23, 2020, letter. “The number of tree and energized primary conductor contacts are disturbing, considering the high-profile wildfire mitigation efforts in Oregon and the fire hazard in the Western United States.”

Six weeks later, the Labor Day fires ignited.

Barely three weeks after the Labor Day fires, the Portland law firm Stoll Berne filed a class action lawsuit

against PacifiCorp on behalf of about 1,500 people who had lived through the Santiam Fire (a term that encompasses the Beachie Creek Fire, Lionshead Fire and several other conflagrations); the Echo Mountain Complex Fire in the Central Oregon Coast Range; the South Obenchain Fire in Jackson County; and the 242 Fire north of Klamath Falls.

The lawyers worked in uncharted territory. There wasn’t any authoritative narrative of what happened. And there still isn’t.

After deadly utility-caused fires in Washington, Utah and, most recently, Hawaii, officials in those states issued “cause and origin reports” within weeks. In Oregon, more than four years on, the state Department of Forestry has yet to release reports on any of the Labor Day fires.

The 2023 class action trial that took place in a Portland courtroom included excruciating testimony of deaths, injuries and destroyed homes, and an equally spirited defense from PacifiCorp.

The utility argued that climate change had wrought such profound and pervasive changes it would be unfair to hold one company responsible for fire damage.

PacifiCorp also attributed much of the Santiam Canyon damage to the Beachie Creek Fire, a lightning-caused blaze that had been burning for nearly a month high in the Cascades between Mount Jefferson and Opal Creek. The intense winds pushed the fire westward toward the Santiam Canyon and Gates and sent red-hot embers flying over the area, some of which allegedly started other fires.

But plaintiffs called their own forestry expert, Oregon State University professor John Bailey, who argued just the opposite: The fires that did most of the real damage blew up thanks to hot power lines, with no help from the Beachie Creek Fire. “Beachie Creek was still miles away,” Bailey said.

Some observers saw the urban-rural divide play out in the courtroom. Freres Timber Inc., based in Lyons in Linn County, was among those suing PacifiCorp. The company said it lost 5,800 acres of timber in the fire, 687 acres directly attributable to PacifiCorp.

Company president Rob Freres Jr. says he found the trial eye-opening, particularly PacifiCorp’s disdain for fire victims. He points to the utility’s courtroom treatment of Rachelle McMaster, whose mobile home in the coastal hamlet of Otis was destroyed in another of the Labor Day fires.

“They belittled this woman and showed a picture of her mobile home with toys in the yard and a burn pile for their garbage,” Freres says. “They just characterized her as white trash. They didn’t use those words. But that’s what the implication was. And they turned off the jury so badly.”

Freres Timber Inc. President Rob Freres Jr. Brian Burk

A warning sign near Gates.

Brian Burk

The Beachie Creek Fire, shown here, was one of several that composed the Santiam Fire in 2020. An expert witness testified that the town of Gates was already burning by the time the Beachie Creek Fire reached there.

Some of the most powerful testimony came not from victims but from a neutral party.

In 2020, Nik Blosser served as chief of staff for thenGov. Kate Brown. On Sept. 7, 2020, Blosser convened an urgent conference call with the state’s largest utilities about the risks of the Labor Day winds.

Blosser said in an interview with OJP that the call came about because Doug Grafe, the top wildfire expert at the Oregon Department of Forestry, insisted the state was in danger. Weather forecasts kept worsening, Grafe said. Forests were bone dry. And now, the National Weather Service was predicting intense winds from the east that could turn a spark into a conflagration.

Grafe led the conference call with executives from PacifiCorp, Portland General Electric (PGE), Idaho Power and the Bonneville Power Administration. In his distinctive Boston accent, Grafe briefed the company officials on the ominous forecasts.

What exactly was said next at the meeting is a matter of dispute. Blosser and Grafe both testified at the trial that the possibility of a Public Safety Power Shutoff was discussed. A power shutdown — essentially the deenergizing of power lines — is the ultimate weapon against power line-caused fires. (San Diego Gas & Electric pioneered Public Power Safety Shutoffs in 2008, and they are now used by utilities all over the West, including Oregon.)

The PGE official on the call, Dave Robertson, said in deposition that his company had already shut off the power in the Mount Hood corridor from Timberline Lodge to the cluster of small towns west of the mountain.

“PGE reported they were deenergizing some of their lines,” Blosser said at the trial and retold OJP, in his most detailed account of the meeting to date.

“PacifiCorp said they were not. After they said that, I asked, pointedly, if they were doing everything possible to avoid starting fires, because the fire chief was worried. The senior PacifiCorp official said they had done their weather modeling and were not going to deenergize — that they did not need to.”

Scott Bolton, PacifiCorp’s representative on the call, disputes Blosser’s and Robertson’s recollections. In an email exchange with OJP, Bolton, who left PacifiCorp in 2023, claims he was never asked for a power shutoff. “At no time did anyone from the governor’s office or anyone else on the call make a request to deenergize all or portions of any of the participating utilities’ systems.”

Bolton’s claim is at odds with others who were on the conference call.

PGE’s Robertson said in court and in a later interview that power shutdowns were a big part of the conversation that evening. Grafe “initially asked whether we could shut down everything in Western Oregon,” Robertson said. “I said we couldn’t do that. But if you give

us specific locations, we can and will shut that down.”

Within hours, fires raged all over Oregon. Some of the largest and most dangerous burned in PacifiCorp territory. No major fires ignited in the Mount Hood corridor, PGE’s territory.

Blosser says he’s “lost many nights’ sleep” thinking about that call.

“The senior PacifiCorp official said they had done their weather modeling and were not going to deenergize — that they did not need to.”

—NIK BLOSSER

“We had the terrible weather forecast, we raised it to the highest levels of the utilities, and PacifiCorp had a chance to prevent disaster but inexplicably did not,” Blosser says. “And I will never understand why. The idea that they claim they weren’t ordered to turn the power off is absurdly feeble. It was totally clear what they were being asked. It’s a miracle more people weren’t killed by their tragic inaction.”

On June 12, 2023, after a seven-week trial, a Multnomah County jury found PacifiCorp was “grossly negligent” and reckless. The jury awarded about $100 million in damages to the first 17 plaintiffs, about $6 million apiece.

Jerry Singleton, a California lawyer who has sued PacifiCorp twice in recent years over its handling of two Northern California wildfires, wasn’t terribly surprised. “They don’t have a great record on safety; they are significantly behind many of the other utilities,” he says of PacifiCorp.

Two decades ago, PacifiCorp was an independent, locally based electric company with 10,000 employees. It had deep roots in Oregon embodied by the civic engagement of its longtime chairman Glenn Jackson. Upon his death in 1980, The Oregonian wrote, “Jackson probably devoted more voluntary service to Oregon than any citizen before or since statehood.”

Today, the utility’s center of gravity has shifted to Omaha, Nebraska, and its executives keep a lower profile in Oregon. In the past 10 years, PacifiCorp has sent

$4.3 billion in dividends back to Buffett’s Omaha headquarters. Meanwhile, the utility’s ranks have fallen by half to 5,000 workers.

When PacifiCorp lost the 2023 verdict, it quickly appealed to the Oregon Court of Appeals and convinced the trial court to hold separate proceedings for each remaining individual plaintiff to determine damages. That could take years.

The plaintiffs, many of whom lost their homes and personal belongings, are bitterly disappointed by the delay.

“If somebody stole something from you, they would pay the consequences and they would pay now, not when it’s convenient for them,” says Chris Grom, a Gates resident whose house burned. “They caused this fire. We proved it. Make them pay.”

PacifiCorp declined interview requests but did provide some answers to written questions. The company said it has spent $1.1 billion since 2020 making its transmission system less likely to start fires. And while denying any wrongdoing, it has paid another $1.2 billion to settle other legal claims stemming from the Labor Day fires, including those by 876 Oregon claimants.

The utility also said it has implemented Public Safety Power Shutoffs four times since the 2020 fires. But it declined to answer why the company didn’t deenergize its power lines in September 2020.

While PacifiCorp’s appeal continues, an equally important campaign is gearing up in Salem. Although it’s still early, lawmakers on both sides of the aisle have introduced a number of bills relating to wildfire costs and who should pay.

Some lawmakers want to create a billion-dollar wildfire fund, bankrolled by utilities and ratepayers, to compensate fire victims, says state Rep. Pam Marsh (D-Ashland). “We are living in a time of wildfire, and the risks are overwhelming,” Marsh says. “We need the utilities to be there.”

Another pending bill would create a separate funding stream of at least $140 million annually to mitigate and fight fires.

For its part, PacifiCorp is seeking legislation that would cap its liability for fires. (In 2024, the utility convinced Utah lawmakers to limit its liability to $450,000 per person.)

State Rep. John Lively (D-Springfield), who chairs the House Climate, Energy and Environment Committee, says lawmakers are serious about tackling the causes and impacts of wildfires.

Nik Blosser, former chief of staff for then-Gov. Kate Brown.

Nik Blosser

View of burned areas seen from airplane.

Brian Burk

“These are huge issues,” Lively says. “It’s clear we can’t continue operating the way we’ve been operating.”

Fred Heutte, senior policy adviser at the NW Energy Coalition, a green energy advocacy group, says, “There’s a lot of money and a lot of risk on the line.”

It’s a volatile issue that transcends typical partisan lines. Cate, the Lebanon representative, and two other House Republicans are sponsoring a bill “that would prohibit any rate hikes for any utility provider if it has unresolved wildfire liability lawsuits for more than three years.” (PacifiCorp recently raised its residential rates by 8.6%, according to the PUC.)

Senate Minority Leader Daniel Bonham (R-The Dalles) says, in his experience, that investor-owned utilities like PacifiCorp “keep loading costs on ratepayers, many of whom can’t afford it. Ratepayers are getting left in the dust.”

Some Democrats, including Sen. Khanh Pham of Portland and Rep. Mark Gamba of Milwaukie, want the PUC to change the way utilities get compensated. Instead of being granted a nearly guaranteed return on investment (the reason a savvy investor bought PacifiCorp), lawmakers want utilities to have to meet rigorous performance standards to get paid.

State Rep. Ed Diehl (R-Scio), a staunch conservative, finds himself in agreement with liberal Democrats on the need to push PacifiCorp to treat ratepayers — and the victims of the 2020 fires — better.

“They are dragging their feet,” Diehl says. “I want to see them do the right thing.”

And where is Gov. Tina Kotek? She is not yet saying what her position is.

When Kathleen Becherer and her husband, Bruce Bailey, fully realized what was happening that

early morning of Sept. 8, fire was roaring down the Santiam right toward them. Smoke was in their house. Heat and wind shattered windows.

Becherer ran to open the barn door for her herd of 20 goats. But the barn was already on fire.

Becherer’s skin cooked in the heat. She left the goats and ran for her life.

Meanwhile, the howling east wind had blown several trees across their driveway. There was no way out.

With their driveway blocked, they couldn’t get to the main road. So Bailey and Becherer drove the Jeep through pasture for almost a quarter mile, far from trees. Bailey drove more by feel than sight.

“At that point, it was impossible to see,” he says. “I couldn’t see farther than my feet.”

Neighbors found them the next morning, still alive, hunkered down in the Jeep. Their house was gone, as were five outbuildings. Rescuers came and Becherer was taken to the burn center at Legacy Emanuel Medical Center in Portland. Over the subsequent two weeks, she underwent multiple skin graft operations on her legs, hands and face.

The couple lived in a series of hotel rooms, RVs and tents over the next four years, waiting for their new, more fireproof home to be built. Rebuilding drained their finances, Becherer says, and relying on tents and a porta-potty in their 70s drained their morale.

Though they try not to dwell on it, their anger at

PacifiCorp is never far from the surface.

While Becherer survived the firestorm, the question that nags at her is whether she will live long enough to collect her legal damages.

Thirty of the plaintiffs have died since the case began, attorneys say, without receiving any funds.

“I’m pretty resilient,” Becherer says. “I like people, but I don’t like Pacific Power. It’s been four years, for God’s sake.”

—This story was produced by the Oregon Journalism Project, a nonprofit investigative newsroom for the state of Oregon. Nigel Jaquiss contributed reporting to this story. Learn more at oregonjournalismproject.org.

Kathleen Becherer and her husband, Bruce Bailey.

Brian Burk

SOURCE PICKS

WEDNESDAY 2/12

CROOKED TEETH

PUNK ROCK AND EMO MUSIC

California trio Crooked Teeth offer a blend of eclectic pop, punk, emo and alternative sounds and engage fans with thought-provoking lyrics. Wed., Feb. 12, 7pm at Volcanic Theatre Pub. 70 SW Century Dr., Bend. $15.

STAND-UP COMEDY WITH TANAEL JOACHIM

JOKES FROM TJ

New York City-based stand-up comedian Tanael Joachim (TJ) comes to Bend for a night of laughs. TJ’s comedy sets are laid-back, smooth and conversational with jokes about race and society’s idiosyncrasies. Thu., Feb. 13, 8-10pm at The Domino Room. 51 NW Greenwood Ave., Bend. $25.

LOB OF YOUR LIFE: A PICKLEBALL SOCIAL

PLAY PICKLEBALL WITH YOUR VALENTINE

Celebrate Valentine’s Day in Sunriver with some indoor pickleball. Bring that special someone and join a fun evening of pickleball, food, drinks and plenty of fun! Whether you’re a first-time player or a seasoned pro, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Fri., Feb. 14, 3-8pm at SHARC Event Space. 57250 Overlook Rd., Sunriver. $25.

FRIDAY-SUNDAY 2/14-2/16

2025 BEND WINTERFEST

EXPERIENCE THE MAGIC OF WINTER

Gather under sparkling lights at the 2025 Bend WinterFest where you'll find an enchanting atmosphere filled with live music, art, delectable cuisine, shopping and entertainment suitable for all ages. Browse art, outdoor accessories, handmade creations and more in the expansive marketplaces. Fri., Feb. 14, 5-10pm, Sat., Feb. 15, 11am-10pm, Sun., Feb. 16, 11am-5pm at Old Mill District. 520 SW Powerhouse Dr., Bend. $12-$30.

FRIDAY 2/14

VALENTINE’S DAY DINNER & MOVIE

A ROMANTIC DATE AT RIVERHOUSE LODGE

This Valentine’s Day, prepare to be swept off your feet with an evening at Riverhouse Lodge’s dinner and a movie night. Featuring a screening of “The Princess Bride” and a multi-course meal promised to “awaken your senses,” it’ll be a relaxing but romantic evening. Fri., Feb. 14, 6:30-9:30pm at Riverhouse Lodge. 3075 N Hwy 97, Bend. $79.

FRIDAY 2/14

VALENTINE’S CHAI, CHEESE AND CHOCOLATE

A COCKTAIL CLASS AT FREELAND SPIRITS. Freeland invites you for a night of educational mixology and chai-featured cocktails for you and your Valentine/galentine. Learn tips and secrets from our expert mixologists and enjoy cheese and chocolate pairings along with a tasting flight. Fri., Feb. 14, 5:30-7pm at Freeland Spirits Tasting Room. 550 SW Industrial Way, Ste. 190, Bend. $70-$120.

SATURDAY 2/15

CRATER LAKE SNOWSHOE TOUR

SNOWSHOE AT OREGON’S ONLY NATIONAL PARK

Join Wanderlust Tours on an excursion to Oregon’s only National Park, Crater Lake. Filled with unforgettable vistas, snowshoe through the volcanic environment and enjoy a guided tour. Sat., Feb. 15, 8am-5pm at Wanderlust Tours. 61535 S Hwy 97, Bend. $210.

2/15

FLORAL FUN: COUPLES FLORAL

CREATE YOUR OWN FLOWER BOUQUET

Grab your honey and join a night of flowers and fun. Connect and create together at Flowers by Eryn where luscious blooms, a pretty vase, snippers and some yummy treats will be provided. Sat., Feb. 15, 4-6pm at Flowers by Eryn. 635 NW Colorado Ave., Bend. $150.

SATURDAY 2/15

EGGY WITH SPUNJ

JAM BAND TUNES

Catch the four-piece jam band Eggy, formed in 2016, performing in Bend with Eugene’s Spunj. It’ll be a sizzling night of fun, noodling jams. Sat., Feb. 15, 7:3011:30pm at Volcanic Theatre Pub. 70 SW Century Dr., Bend. $21-$26.

Eryn Johnson

S SOUND

NRock for All Ages

Music Flow students take over the Volcanic stage on Feb. 22

By Chris Young

o matter the decade you grew up in, we’ve all grabbed a broom and played it like a guitar, or sung at the top of our lungs into a comb in front of a steamy bathroom mirror, or shook our head violently while playing the air drums in the back of a car. The common theme: We’re all dreaming of being rock stars on that huge stage, belting out the music that moves us.

Music Flow, the Central Oregon music school, is making this dream a reality for its rock band students when it throws the Music Flow Youth Rock Fest on Saturday, Feb. 22 at the Volcanic Theatre Pub. Featuring students aged 12 to 18, six youth bands will take the venue’s stage playing 15- to 60-minute slots of rock ’n’ roll.

You can expect to hear plenty of classic rock covers from the ’60s, ’70s and ’80s, plus ’90s alternative and a few metal songs. “The ’90s are making a huge comeback, as far as students go and learning music,” says Travis Palladino, Music Flow’s founder. For one, it’s not the most complex music, and “Kids really love the sounds of Weezer, Nirvana, Smashing Pumpkins, Foo Fighters — they’re really stoked to play those songs. The kids love it, their parents love it.”

In the fall of 2015, Palladino, a local guitarist, started offering private music lessons in students’ homes. “Through networking with local musicians, and the community in general, I began to meet a few instructors who wanted to join the team and grow the program with me,” Palladino says. “Right now, we’re a team of 11 instructors… cover[ing] a mix of private lessons, group lessons and rock band lessons.”

Offering in-home private lessons for guitar, voice, piano, ukulele, bass, violin, drums, mandolin and brass instruments, “we rent space for group lessons at Bend International School at their music room,” Palladino says, plus he partners with sound engineer Dave Pettibone and his Good Vibes Studios to host rock band practices.

“At the moment, we have five groups that we are working with, and we are planning to expand that to eight groups by the spring,” says Palladino of the rock band program. New students can apply to join a band — find the application here.

At Music Flow Youth Rock Fest, you can catch Palladino’s student groups Parker & Lily Duo, Awkward Silence, Cardboard Box, Hella Shy and Punk Lab, plus Echo Chamber, which is part of guitarist Matthew Gwinup’s guitar studio. All proceeds from the Volcanic show will support Cascades Theatrical Company “to help support their youth theater programs and provide new music equipment upgrades,” Palladino says.

While this showcase is the first one Music Flow has put on for its rock band program, many of its student acts have played fundraisers and partner venues like breweries in the past. The most accomplished of these acts may be Hella Shy, having rocked an opening slot at last summer’s Munch & Music. “I’ve been teaching most of that group since they were six years old,” Palladino chuckles. “They’re friends that have gradually just morphed into a band over time.”

Hella Shy’s guitar player is Wylam Klein, a 15-year-old who just got his driver’s permit. He started taking piano lessons when he was 4 and picked up the guitar around

Join Our Learning Community!

Keep your mind active in retirement, connect with new friends, and explore new places with OLLI-UO in Central Oregon! Our local programming offers lectures, courses, and study groups year-round, all for a single three, six, or twelve-month fee. Come visit with us at Bend’s Larkspur Community Center on February 28, 10:00–11:30 a.m.—or contact osher@uoregon.edu to attend one free lecture or class session. Learn more at osher.uoregon.edu/experience

Volcanic Theatre Pub

70 SW Century Dr., Bend Doors 5:30pm, show 6pm; all ages $15 advance, $20 day of show

7 or 8. With Hella Shy, he really enjoys playing ’80s songs by The Police, Van Halen, Queen and Hall & Oates.

Getting out there and gigging has been “a really awesome experience,” Klein says. “I used to be pretty nervous and shy performing on a stage.” He had a few opportunities to play solo at recitals, but “I just didn’t want to do that. I was just too nervous. But with a band, it’s a lot easier because you got four other instruments and people… it’s not just you. You got a whole band backing you up. [I’ve] just been building up that confidence, and now it’s transitioned from like nervous to just excitement, and I really enjoy performing now.”

Palladino echoes this experience: “What we’ve noticed is when our student bands perform, especially in front of larger crowds, it’s really inspiring to younger kids, looking up to really talented students a little bit older than them. It tends to get a lot of interest going for learning music and building that confidence to take that next step to learn music and perform and share with others.”

Hella Shy’s lead vocalist and guitarist Lily Miller is 14 and she started singing at age 6. Even with all these years of practice, she hasn’t always felt comfortable getting up in front of audiences. “It’s definitely a process to get used to it, especially at first,” she says. “When I started, [it was] super, super scary. But then I’ve gotten used to it over time.”

Young or old, if you’re looking to learn an instrument, Klein says piano is a great place to start followed by ukulele. From there, you can “work your way up. Find something that you enjoy. If you really enjoy piano, stick to that. Bass, ukulele, whatever you want.” Next, “find some people who you enjoy playing with. I think that was the biggest step for me, that was where I made the most growth because it holds you accountable,” Klein explains. “When you are in a band with other people, it forces you to play better and to learn your part, which is super helpful.”

Youth band Hella Shy performs at last summer’s Munch & Music.

10 & UNDER

BRIGHTEN THE WINTER SEASON!

The 2025 Boss Mortgage Bend WinterFest is excited to return standing as the Northwest's largest winter festival! Prepare for a weekend filled with an array of live music acts, artisans, and vendors from across the Pacific Northwest and beyond.

Breathe in the fresh air of the high desert and explore mesmerizing sculptures crafted from fire, ice, and light. Shop an array of artists, vendors, and more in the Wonderland Marketplace and the outdoor Cascades Market. Relax in our heated Royal Lounge tent before heading to the Oregrown Main Stage for spectacular performances by hip-hop legend Afroman and rock out with Petty Fever

Engage in family-friendly, STEM-based activities hosted by OMSI and sponsored by Lonza. Get the kids excited for the Mini Marshmallow Run, a delightful addition to the Kids Rock the Races Season. And don't miss out on the Hot Cocoa Run, a fun-filled 5K through the WinterFest grounds, complete with cocoa and more at the finish line.

Dear Winterfest partygoers, Both young and old, From the Old Mill District,

Our story is told.

It's that time again, the snow's all around, With joy and excitement, the festival is found.

Live music, good food, and drinks that are grand, Bend Winterfest is the best in the land.

Boss Mortgage is here, feeling proud and elated, To support this event, we're locally dedicated. From icy sculptures to activities for all, This winterfest, in Bend, is sure to enthrall.

The magic of snow, the laughter it brings, Snowflakes dance and everyone sings.

Families and friends, in harmony unite, Enjoying the festivities from morning till night. From our team to yours, let's all have a blast, At Winterfest in Bend, where memories last.

Thank you for joining, for making it great, Let's celebrate Winterfest, don't you be late!

Warm regards, Randy

Vance – president Boss Mortgage

ENTRY TICKETS

General Admission:

$17 advanced

$20 at the gate

Senior:

$15 at the gate

Kid’s Admission (Under 12):

$10 advanced

$12 at the gate

Kids two and under are FREE

Can only make it on Sunday? Sunday ONLY admission: $15

BENEFICIARY

General admission tickets are good for all three days – just keep your wristband!

SCAN FOR TICKETS

OTHER

ACTIVITIES

Kid’s Mini Marshmallow Run: Included with admission! Adult Hot Cocoa Run: $25 (does not include admission)

Lay It Out Events proudly supports local nonprofits & community organizations!

Every year, a portion of proceeds from OnPoint Community Credit Union Oregon WinterFest is donated to a local nonprofit. In 2025, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Oregon returns as this year’s beneficiary!

This year’s Big Brother and Big Sister will be crowned Saturday Night (before Afroman) – 8:15pm on the main stage, and they will also kick off the Hot Cocoa Run!

Big Brothers Big Sisters offers effective mentoring programs that improve the lives of our community’s youth. These programs deeply engage communities through collaboration with families, mentors, community funders, schools and other partners. Offering a variety of programs to meet community and youth needs.

Big Brother: Daniel Marine

Big Sister: Betsy Reed OURWINTERFEST KINGANDQUEEN

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS

Ongoing Activities: Fire Pit Displays, Ice Carving

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 14 SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 15

Oregon WinterFest kicks off!

Wine Walk begins in the Old Mill District

Rubbah Tree (Oregrown Main Stage)

Chest Fever (Oregrown Main Stage)

Family Play Zone closes

Petty Fever (Oregrown Main Stage)

Marketplaces close

closes

Day 2 of WinterFest begins!

Simplicity by Hayden Homes Ice Carving begins

Kids Mini Marshmallow Run

K9 Kings Flying Dog Show

K9 Kings Flying Dog Show

K9 Kings Flying Dog Show

Singalong Bros (Oregrown Main Stage)

Rusty Frets (Oregrown Main Stage)

The Bandulus (Oregrown Main Stage)

Family Play Zone closes

Afroman (Oregrown Main Stage)

Marketplaces close Winterfest closes

Final day of WinterFest begins!

Simplicity by Hayden Homes Ice Carving begins

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 16 11:00am 11:00am Noon 1:00pm 2:30pm 4:00pm 5:00pm

Hot Cocoa Run 5K Run

K9 Kings Flying Dog Show

K9 Kings Flying Dog Show

K9 Kings Flying Dog Show

WinterFest closes

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 14

PETTY FEVER 8:30PM

PETTY FEVER is a Multi-Award Winning full production tribute to TOM PETTY & The Heartbreakers, featuring the captivating Guitarist/Vocalist and Hollywood

Chest Fever

The stories, legend and community of The Band live on through the passion and magic of Chest Fever, newly embodied in the live performance and burning energy they bring to every stage.

7PM 5:30PM

Officially approved by Robbie Robertson, Chest Fever is comprised of keyboardist Jody Bagley, guitarist Dan Cervantes, and bassist Blake Dean of the San Diego Music Award winning rock band Mrs. Henry, rounded out with organist/saxophonist Ben Pinnola, and drummer Allan Ritter.

Rubbah Tree

We are a central Oregon based reggae rock band with psychedelic influence. Our message is to spread the love and vibrations of reggae music through inspiration that our forests and mountains bring to us . We are cascade reggae music . We have shared the stage with over 100 different artists and will continue to grow and bring our loving fans the vibrations that resonate.

“We set out from the get-go to interpret these songs rather than recreate or pay tribute” explains Bagley. Dean continues, “Like Leonard Bernstein, the goal is to bring to life compositions from one of the great catalogs in the history of music. We like to say at every show: “We are a band playing the Band’s music.” Our band is Mrs. Henry, performing as Chest Fever. It’s like Bruce Wayne by day and Batman by night.”

DJ VISITR & DJ RYMES

FRIDAY + SATURDAY 5 - 9:30PM

(SPARKS STAGE)

Our DJ’s are Portland based artists: Rymes & Visitr. Our Dj’s will send you on a journey through genres and cultures, mixing epic melodies that bridge the worlds of dreamy house, lo-fi vibes, hip hop hooks, and indie influences into a captivating blur on the dance floor.

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 15 AFROMAN 8:30pm

The Hungry Hustlin’ American Dream Afroman is still livin’ it up in 2025. With new music in the works set to release this year, The Hungry Hustlin’ American Dream is more popular than ever.

The Bandulus 7PM

Fans of Jamaican music won't want to miss The Bandulus' fusion of ska, reggae, and soul with a touch of rocksteady and R&B influences. Their unique sound is rooted in the classic Jamaican sounds of the 1960's and 1970's while infusing it with their own modern twist. Patois for bandit, thief, or scammer, The Bandulus will steal your heart and always keep you smiling.

Rusty Frets

5:30PM

The Rusty Frets are a brand new Reggae band out of the PNW. Formed in spring of 2023, they released their first two singles “Tide Keeps Rising,” and “No One.” They have opened up for national touring artist, Kyle Smith and were featured on the HomeGrown Music Festival! Most recently, The Rusty Frets released a single “Swervy” featuring the legendary G.Love from G.Love and Special Sauce. Their dynamic and high energy live sets are highly entertaining.

The Singalong Bros 4:30PM

The Singalong Brothers, a band composed of middle-aged friends who turned their shared passion for music into a community phenomenon, brings local star power to every show. Among them are Randy Vance– President of Boss Mortgage and Winterfest’s title sponsor, and Scott Elnes–Good Morning Central Oregon’s co-anchor. Known for their fun and family-friendly vibe, they perform popular singalong songs with on-screen lyrics, encouraging everyone to join in. This high-energy group is “much more fun than karaoke,” inspiring audiences of all ages to sing their favorite tunes together. Their community-driven spirit extends to charitable collaborations, uplifting neighborhoods wherever they perform. Whether headlining festivals or hosting backyard block parties, The Singalong Brothers guarantee a heartwarming experience filled with music, laughter, and unforgettable memories.

PUMP BUMP JAM!

SNOWBOARDERS: FRIDAY 2/14 SKIERS: SATURDAY 2/15

CASH PRIZES FOR OPEN DIVISIONS TACTICS SWAG FOR GROM DIVISIONS 6:15PM at THE OLD MILL PREREGISTER: $10 ENTRY FEE ONSITE

FRIDAY FEBRUARY 14

SAXON’S

STOLLER WINE GROUP 2019 ESTATE

PINOT NOIR

BUDD + FINN

SUN GODDESS – SAUVIGNON BLANC

TUMALO ART CO

DREAMING TREE CHARDONNAY

HELLO SUNSHINE

MIRAVAL ROSÉ + KYLIE MINOGUE COTES DE PROVENCE

BANANA REPUBLIC

HAMPTON WATER ROSE

VA PIANO

VINO ROSSO RED BLEND

SAVORY SPICE

WILLAMETTE VALLEY VINEYARDS - 2022

ESTATE PINOT NOIR

EVOKE WINERY

BUBBLY ROSE + OH! BARBERA

KICK-OFF WINTERFEST WEEKEND WITH THE WINE WALK, STROLLING THROUGH THE DIVERSE RETAILERS IN THE OLD MILL DISTRICT AND SAMPLING WINES FROM AROUND THE GLOBE. $35 TICKET INCLUDES A COMPLIMENTARY WINE GLASS, 8 TASTINGS AND ACCESS TO ALL THREE DAYS OF WINTERFEST!

ICE CARVING

Lisa Donze + John Donze

Lisa Donze started out sand sculpting through Sand in the City as her talent grew, she began to have opportunities to add snow, ice and pumpkins to her repertoire. When she’s not carving, Lisa spends her time enjoying family and running an insurance agency.

Jacob Lucas

Meet Jacob Lucas, a talented artist and resident of Bonney Lake, Washington. With seven years of carving experience under his belt, Jacob has become a true master of his craft. But his artistic journey began long before that - he's been drawing since the tender age of 5 and has worked in a variety of mediums over the years, including sculpting clay, digital design, glass blowing, and of course, chainsaw art. Today, Jacob carves at home full-time, pouring his heart and soul into each and every piece he creates. He's always taking custom orders and loves nothing more than seeing the joy his art brings to people's faces. Whether it's a stunning sculpture or a one-of-a-kind carving, Jacob's work is sure to leave a lasting impression.

PRESENTED BY SIMPLICITY BY

HAYDEN HOMES

Russ Leno

Russ Leno has sculpted everything from ice, snow, wood and pumpkins for over 30 years and is regular at WinterFest. He’s carved in two international competitions and many others throughout Canada, Oregon and Washington.

Wade Lapp

Wade Lapp, a skilled artisan, discovered his passion for carving pumpkins 12 years ago. He was inspired by Ray Villafane's work and decided to try his hand at it. From that moment on, Lapp was hooked and has since explored various mediums. Pumpkin carving opened up many doors for Lapp, allowing him to branch out into sand sculpting as a solo artist and as a member of the sand sculpting team, Team Mai Tia. Along with his wife, Brittany Lapp, he has won numerous competitions and created many exhibition sculptures. In 2021, Lapp jumped into a new medium, ice, at the World Ice Art Championship in Fairbanks, Alaska, where he and his team took second place. Lapp created several magical sculptures that are now displayed throughout the park. In recent years, Lapp has also taken up wood carving, creating many custom pieces for individuals and collaborating with St Helens, Oregon’s Spirit of Halloweentown to create magical wood pieces displayed in exhibits throughout town and on St Helens' Sand Island.

FIRE ART

Tim + Celeste McGowan

Tim and Celeste McGowan is the team behind Iron Roots Design, an interior design and fabrication company in Bend. Iron Roots specialize in custom indoor and outdoor features, utilizing their knowledge of mixed mediums in their designs.

Jay Nielson

Ron Moore

Jay Nielson’s work is impromptu, spur of the moment, inspiration driven art. He uses whatever materials are available to create something from nothing. He works in scrap and reclaimed materials to prove that beauty can come from garbage.

Led by US Navy Veteran Ron Moore, SF Metalworks can assist you with turning your initial sketches and brainstorms into a reality. At SF Metalworks, we specialize in the design evolution, fabrication, installation, and finish of bespoke metalwork, showcasing our craftsmanship in each project.

FAMILY PLAY ZONE

Friday 5-8pm

Saturday 11am-8pm

Sunday 11am-8pm

The fun doesn’t stop at WinterFest! The Oregon Museum of Science and Industry Science (OMSI) will bring a collection of hands-on brainteasers challenge visitors to think both critically and creatively. Puzzles range in difficulty and content but most incorporate concepts of geometry, algebra and or physics and lead to fun (and often surprising) solutions!

Kids will enjoy playing educational games and interacting with STEM-based activities, sponsored by Lonza!

KIDS AREA VENDORS

WALDORF SCHOOL OF BEND

DRAGONBORN STUDIOS

STEEZEWEAR

SUNNY RUSTY 3D ART

CHILDREN’S MUSEUM OF CENTRAL OREGON

FOX CREEK BUILD-A-BUDDY

FLYING FANCY COTTON CANDY

K9 KINGS FLYING DOG SHOW

Saturday & Sunday 1pm, 2:30pm and 4pm

Each performance demonstrates the amazing ATHLETICISM of these amazing working dogs. They will captivate the audience with their skills of spinning, flipping and jumping.

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 16

On Site Registration: 11am

Race Start: Noon

Old Mill District

5K WITH COCOA

Ready to add some sweet, chocolaty fun to your WinterFest experience? We’ve got something special lined up for all you runners out there – the exhilarating Hot Cocoa Run!

Feb. 15 at Noon

Free with admission!

Join us for this winter-themed Kids Rock the Races! Costumes are encouraged.

Race Details: Lace up your running shoes and get set for a thrilling 5K run through the winter wonderland of Bend. But here’s the twist – come dressed in your quirkiest, funniest, or most creative costume!

After crossing the finish line, indulge in a steaming hot cocoa bar adorned with all your favorite toppings. And to add that extra kick of delight, a splash of Crater Lake spirits awaits!

Includes a custom mug (for the first 200 finishers), full hot cocoa bar and more goodies at the finish!

Kids will run from station to station collecting cocoa ingredients, and as they cross the finish line they will get the final touch — a splash of hot chocolate and a finisher ribbon! This event will leave the little runners feeling like they rule the world!

OREGON LIFESTYLE VENDORS

TDS

CRATER LAKE SPIRITS

ABLIS CBD

COOKIE & COCOA SWEET SHOPPE

ONE PEAK MEDICAL

SILVER STONE APOTHECARY

MOUNTAIN HOME ARTS

LAZY Z RANCH WINES

ROYAL JUICE

NOMAD LEATHER

MANUKA MANA

CURMUFFINS

STAVOREN TRADING CO.

CATMAN CELLARS

BROADUS BEES

FOOD VENDORS

QUEENS OF KETTLE CORN

THE CORNDOG COMPANY OF CENTRAL OREGON

DRINKS

BEER:

10 BARREL APOCALYPSE

10 BARREL PUB BEER

10 BARREL SINISTOR

BEND-YAY BEIGNETS

ADAMO’S CARNIVAL EATS

CREPE-OH-HOLICS

N/A IPA

RICO’S TACOS

QUALISERVE

THE PIZZA CART

CIDER:

AVID PEACH LYCHEE

AVID BLACKBERRY

WINE:

DUMP CITY DUMPLINGS

THE BOB

ISLAND NOODLES MT

BABES KOREAN KITCHEN

SMOKEY BAG JERKY

RED BEARD BARBECUE

CUBAN KITCHEN

SANGERS GOURMET HAMBURGERS

COPA DI VINO CABERNET SAUVIGNON

COPA DI VINO PINOT GRIGIO +COCKTAILS!

Goose Best Puppy Eyes

Brad Most Catitude Cassie RainberryFriendliest

BOSS MORTGAGE

NATIONAL SOLAR

WONDERLAND VENDORS

OREGON HEALTHCARE.GOV

SIMPLICITY BY HAYDEN HOMES

STIO

SIXSTIX GOURMET PRETZELS

LEAFGUARD

CATHLEEN HYLTON INTUITIVE

READER AND TEACHER

OH SHEESH / GIDDY UP GLOVE

ENSORCELL SOAPS & SUNDRIES

ASCEND MUSHROOMS

JENNIBJEWELED

MAMA K KNITS

JAX HAT BEND

WAYWARD & WILD

ALPENGLOW COCKTAIL

COMPANY

LLACTA ECUADORIAN HANDCRAFT

ATA FELTING ART

PORTLANDIA CANDLE COMPANY

ART BY CALISTA

ISOMIMO

HAPPY YAK

CATALYST LIFE ALLIANCE

CLAY DRAGON

AMAZING GRACE MISSION

ETERNAL HEALTH CHIROPRACTIC

BLUE SPRUCE POTTERY

LEAFFILTER NORTH LLC

ROOTED IN RESIN

STUDIO LES BOIS

PILGRIM’S ROASTED NUT’Z

CENTRAL OREGON PSYCHIC

CLUB PILATES BEND

MODERN GAMES

THE GOLDEN ERA OF CINEMA

OREGONIC JEWELS

MY ART MAKER, LLC

ANDEAN WAVES

WUNNAVAKIND LLC

STUDIO PASHKOVA

BELLA GRACE CONSULTANT

PEAK EURO

FROM GRAPES & OLIVES

NOBLER WILD

VENDORS ARE WE LLC

CHARLOTTE WALLACE ART

WILLIS WOODS

FLAMING FOLIAGE

ROSE ROOTS DESIGN STUDIO

THE LOVING FUNGI

JTGEMS

STELLAR STONES

BEND CRAFTERS COMPANY

JOHN’S POLES

MARKITARITA JEWELRY

AIR NATIONAL GUARD

MIGHT FLY STUDIO

NEWKS HOT SAUCE

DAUGHERTY PRODUCE LLC

LIGHTWORKS CANDLES

LARSEN FALLS GIFTS

CASCADE OUTDOOR MARKET

EMBER SAUNAS

TRAVELIN’ TOM’S COFFEE TRUCK

MISTY SKY CRAFTS

BEND AXE THROWING

MORSEL MAVEN

BE POSITIVITY

RENEWAL BY ANDERSEN

SMILE-A-MILE PAINTING OREGON

CAMBRIAN COLLECTIVE

M&R CREATORS LLC

HANNAH MG KNITS

WILD MOON JEWELRY

THORNBIRD TATTOO

BRIDGE CITY KID

HYCH: HEAT YOU CAN HANDLE

JOURNEY CHURCH

GLASS BY CAREL

CLOSED LOOP WOODWORKS LLC

UNION STUDIO METALS MMOR

mission to combine ultimate comfort with stylish designs. That’s why we handcraft each piece using only the best materials and meticulous attention to detail. With fur niture and decor for every room in the house, La-Z-Boy can create a seamlessly beautiful home.

CALENDAR

12 Wednesday

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.

Crosscut Warming Hut No 5 Ben Johnson Relax with a pint and enjoy great local music from Ben Johnson. 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.

JC’s Bar & Grill WING-skey Wednesdays + TRIVIA Wednesdays at JC’s are a triple threat: $0.75 wings, killer whiskey specials and trivia kicking off at 7pm. Bring your A-game for our infamous “physical challenge” (think limbo and musical chairs!) and a night full of laughs and flavor. Don’t miss out - It’s the best midweek party in town! 7pm. 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.

Midtown Ballroom LOTUS w/ YAK ATTACK Parallel 44 Presents LOTUS - How to Dream in Color Tour w/ YAK ATTACK on Wednesday, Feb., 12 at Midtown Ballroom. We are elated to have one of the hottest dance bands on Earth back to Bend. Show 7-11:30pm. $27adv/$35door.

Midtown Yacht Club Sink or Swim Trivia Bring your friends and join us for a locally run trivia show! This is not "out of the box" national, pre-made trivia and is most definitely NOT your dad’s trivia night. 6-8pm. Free.

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

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

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

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

Volcanic Theatre Pub Crooked Teeth Punk-rock and emo music from Crooked Teeth. 7pm. $15 presale.

13 Thursday

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

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

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

Crave Kitchen Bend COMEDY OPEN MIC NIGHT Comedy Open Mic Night on the SW side of Bend! Adults Only Encouraged. Intimate, smaller venue, healthier food and beverages, and an interactive night of comedy every Thursday! Hosted By Hopper. 7-9pm. Free.

Deschutes Brewery & Public House Bingo Night Join us at Deschutes Brewery Bend Public House for our new Bingo Night! 6-8pm. Free.

The Domino Room Stand-Up Comedy with TJ (Tanael Joachim) “The Basement Famous Tour” TJ is a stand-up comedian who has made appearances on Gotham Comedy Live on AXS TV and on Good Day New York on FOX. He is based in New York City but was born and raised in Haiti, and performs regularly at some of the best clubs in New York. 8-10pm. $25.

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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 Bill Powers Thursday night live music at Mountain Burger! 5-7pm. Free.

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

River’s Place Heller Highwater Trio Crowd pleasers from R&B, rock, country, pop and blues. 6-8pm. Free.

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

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

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

The Lot Mari & The Dream (Solo set) Lead singer of local band Mari & The Dream brings an eclectic style of music ranging from blues, indie, folk, and everything in between. When she’s not performing with her band, you can find her playing solo and giving you a more intimate set. 6-8pm. Free.

Volcanic Theatre Pub The Jauntee w/ Bodhi Mojo The Jauntee is an electrifying and genre-blending musical ensemble that has captivated audiences with their unique and dynamic sound. Formed in 2010, the band has been pushing the boundaries of improvisational music, combining elements of jazz, funk, rock, and psychedelic jams to create a sonic experience like no other. 7pm. $15 presale.

14 Friday

Big E’s Sports Bar and Grill Valentine’s Karaoke Duet Competition It’s Valentine’s Night and Karaoke is for lovers. Grab your best friend or partner in crime and be part of this special duet competition. A duet is only required to win a prize. All karaoke singers are welcome. Hosted by A Fine Note Karaoke Too! 8-11pm. Free.

Craft Kitchen & Brewery Murder Mystery (Interactive): A Killer Valentine In Killer Valentine, love takes a deadly turn. During a romantic gathering, a guest is murdered, and it’s up to you to uncover the killer. With suspects, secrets, and clues at every turn, will you solve the mystery before the night ends in more tragedy? Love and danger collide! 7-9pm. $15 at door.

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

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

M&J Tavern Close 2 Dead It is a Friday Valentine's night for lovers in town! We love music! These two fellas share that love of music and are perfect for the evening! 9pm. Free.

Portello Wine and Spirits All You Need is Love - Valentine’s Dinner and Music at Portello Join us at Portello for a special Valentine’s Dinner featuring a unique a la carte menu, cocktail and champagne specials, and live classical and flamenco guitar by Richard Fitzgerald. Reservations encouraged, View the special menu on our website! 4-10pm. Free.

Silver Moon Brewing Bend Burlesque Co. presents: My Vaudeville Valentine Travel back in time with us this Valentine’s Day to the vaudeville days of the early 20th Century. Bring your honey, your bestie, or a group of your favorite friends and feast your eyes upon our assembly of ragtime pantaloons! This is one variety show you won’t want to miss! 8-10pm. $15-$35.

The Commonwealth Pub Quon and Quon Valentine's Day Special The Quons are a songwriting duo from Bend that plays original acoustic music. With guitars, harmonium and vocal harmonies in the singer/songwriter/folk genre. The Quons feature Linda Quon on harmonium and Mark Quon on acoustic guitar. 8pm. Free.

Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Central Oregon HDCM Concert Series: FRANK ALMOND High Desert Chamber Music’s 17th season, presented by Washington Trust Bank and Lynch Murphy McLane LLP, continues with our annual Valentine’s Day concert. This best-selling event includes a complimentary rose for concert-goers and a treat from Goody’s Chocolates! 7:30-9pm. $15- $58..

Velvet Richard Taelor Band- some Valentine’s Day Blues Join our paint your partner party and enjoy some blues after. 8-10pm. Free.

Volcanic Theatre Pub Champagne Drip - Nimbus Tour Champagne Drip, the musical incarnation of Los Angeles-based producer Samuel Pool, was born from the philosophy that innovation springs from inspiration. The statement ringing true throughout the years, Pool has proven himself to be a trailblazer within the bass music sector of electronic music. 7pm. Presale $30 - Day of $40.

Wildwood Bar & Grill One Mad Man Based out of Bend, Spencer Snyder sets the bar for creating powerful, original music live. Snyder 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. 8-11pm. Free.

15 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.

Immersion Brewing Barrel Room Lá Bon Burlesque Presents Cell Block Tango Join Lá Bon Burlesque for a killer Valentine’s show inspired by the hit musical Chicago! 8-10pm. $30-$80.

M&J Tavern Livid Kings w/ Weapon World

The LIVID Kings are back to the Throne room while highlighting the new hard hittin’ sounds that are this local towns own Weapon World. This evening is not for the faint of heart or easy listening elevator channel subscribers! 9pm. Free.

The four-piece jam band Eggy brings a night of fun rhythms to Bend. All ages. Sat., Feb. 15, 7pm at Volcanic Theatre Pub.

Paralell 44 Presents FB

CALENDAR

On Tap Megan Alder at On Tap Megan Alder is a vocal powerhouse performing acoustic swing and original music. She performs solo and with her band, Megan Alder and the Woods. 6-8pm. Free.

River’s Place Saturday Jazz Sessions Brandon Campbell Trio bringing Gypsy Jazz to Saturday Jazz Sessions. 6-8pm. Free.

Silver Moon Brewing The Cult of Tuck presents: luperGAYlia Drag Kings, Queens, and creatures of all kinds will be taking the stage to celebrate Valentine’s Day’s ancient pagan roots. Featuring: Amber Tingle, AZULA, Caressa Banana, Chaotica, Deco LlaTage, Dick Von Moreno, D’jenna Tollzz, Foxy LaHound, Oceana Roll, Ophelia Vibes, Papa Raunch, Sacha Travesty, and Sera Fine. 8-11pm. $25 online, $35 at the door.

The Commonwealth Pub Not Your Ex Lover Not Your Ex Lover is a Latina, femme, glitter-rock band based in Bend! Formed by a group of friends with a shared passion for music and storytelling, their songs are an expression of the cosmic collision of love and heartbreak told with a little grunge and a lot sparkle! 8pm. Free.

Velvet DJ TEEZUS TEEZ, the sonic architect of the dance floor, mixing a relentless fusion of pulsating beats and infectious melodies that ignite the collective euphoria of the crowd. Prepare to be transported to a place where the music becomes an unstoppable force, as TEEZ unleashes his curation of sounds that are fuelinghousemusic. 9pm-Midnight. Free.

Volcanic Theatre Pub EGGY w/ SPUNJ @ VOLCANIC - SAT 2/15 Parallel 44 Presents Eggy - Here and How Tour live in Bend at Volcanic Theatre. We are overjoyed to bring one of our favorite emerging national acts back to Bend. This band is special! 7:3011:30pm. $21adv/$26 door.

Webfoot Garage at Silver Moon Brewing THE TRAPPER KEEPERS ‘90s cover band playing your favorite songs! 7pm. $10.

Wildwood Bar & Grill DJ G.Garretson

Lifetime Super-Local Greg Garretson serving up swervy bass beats, jungle, funk and hip-hop. Come for the swerve, stay for the crunchy dessert. 9pm-Midnight. Free.

16 Sunday

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

River’s Place John Fortune Energetic blend of R&B, jazzy soul and classic rock acoustic/electric covers and originals. 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.

Unofficial Logging Co. Sunday Matinee Live Music Series Sunday Matinee Live Music Series. Featuring local Central Oregon musician favorites. Family friendly! Presented by: Unofficial Logging Co. & DMM Music LLC. 5-7pm. Free.

Volcanic Theatre Pub Mike Love Mike Love is a devoted to revolution through sound. while rooted in the spirituality and message-based music of roots reggae, fuses a variety of influences including progressive and classic rock, soul, blues, flamenco, jazz, classical, and more. $25 presale.

17 Monday

Bridge 99 Brewery Trivia Mondays at Bridge 99 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! It’s free to play. Indoor and outdoor seating available. 63063 Layton Ave, Bend. 6:30-8:30pm. Free.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

18 Tuesday

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

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

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

Crosscut Warming Hut No 5 Head Games Trivia Night Live multi-media trivia every other Tuesday at Crosscut Warming Hut No. 5, Bend. Free to play, win prizes, teams up to 6. Please arrive early for best seats. Every other Tuesday, 6-8pm. Free.

Mountain Burger Trivia Tuesday at Mountain Burger Come to Trivia Tuesday at Mountain Burger! Fun and prizes await! 7:30-9pm. Free. Pinky G’s Pizzeria TRIVIA NIGHT Test your knowledge in a casual/laid-back atmosphere. Pizza, beer and trivia. Free to play and prizes for 1st and 2nd place. 6-8pm. Free.

Silver Moon Brewing James G the Music Selector James G is Bend Oregon’s biggest music supporter and fan of live music. Come listen to him curate some eclectic music and find your new favorite band. 6pm. Free.

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

MUSIC

Dove String Quartet Enjoy and hour of music from Dove String Quartet. Feb. 15, 2-3pm. Redmond Public Library, 827 SW Deschutes Ave., Redmond. Contact: 541-3121032. lizg@deschuteslibrary.org. Free.

Sunriver Music Festival Valentine’s Dinner & Dance Concert Featuring all your favorite swing tunes from the 1920s-40s, Blue Skies Big Band returns for a fun night out in the iconic Great Hall at Sunriver Resort. Price is inclusive of multi-course dinner and full concerts. Feb. 14, 5-8pm. Sunriver Resort Great Hall, 1 Great Hall Loop, Sunriver. Contact: 541-593-9310. tickets@sunrivermusic. org. $140.

DANCE

Afrobeat Dance Class Afrobeat Dance Class Hosted by performer Fode Sylla, Learn the fusion and modern-day African-derived movements. Students and community members will learn Afrobeat and West African steps to release and express movement without a rigid form Feb. 13, 6-7:30pm. COCC Redmond Technology Education Center, 2324 SE College Loop, Redmond. Contact: 541-3304376. mlegrand2@cocce.edu. Free.

Bachata Dance Classes - Level 1 / Beginner Get ready to have fun learning new bachata steps! This Bachata class is focused on learning basic steps, turns and introduction to partner-work. Perfect for someone looking to learn to dance one of the most popular latin dances. Dance partner not required but encouraged. Cost: $15 per class drop-in. $48mth. Mondays, 8:15-9pm. Through Feb. 24. The Space, 2570 NE Twin Knolls Drive, Suite 110, Bend. Contact: 541-325-6676. LatinDanceBend@gmail.com. $15.

Bend’s Latina, femme, glitter-rock band Not Your Ex Lover brings a little grunge and a lot of sparkle to the stage with Kathartica. Sat., Feb. 15, 8pm at The Commonwealth Pub.

My Vaudeville Valentine Burlesque show “The world’s a stage, and everything else is Vaudeville.” -Alan Moore. Travel back in time this Valentine’s Day to the Vaudeville days of the early 20th Century. Bring your honey, your bestie, or a group of your favorite friends and feast your eyes upon an assembly of ragtime pantaloons. Feb. 14, 8-10pm. Silver Moon Brewing, 24 NW Greenwood Ave., Bend. Contact: 541-388-8331. jeshua@ silvermoonbrewing.com. $20.

ARTS + CRAFTS

Date Night! Valentine’s Jewelry Workshop Join us for a fun-filled evening where you’ll learn to create stunning sterling silver rings. Using a torch, you’ll master the basics of soldering and ring design while crafting three beautiful rings to cherish or share with a loved one. Celebrate love with a creative twist! Feb. 13, 6-8pm. DIY Cave, 444 SE Ninth St. Suite 150, Bend. Contact: 541388-2283. classes@diycave.com. $129.

Feb Floral Fun: 2/15 Couples Floral Grab your honey and join us for a night of flowers and fun. Connect and create together—-we’ll supply the luscious blooms, pretty vase, snippers and some instruction (plus some yummy (plus some yummy cocktails & light snacks). (One ticket includes one arrangement that you can make together. Feb. 15, 4-6pm. Flowers by Eryn, 635 NW Colorado Ave, Bend. Contact: 541-9771650. hello@flowersbyeryn.com. $150.

Power Saws for Fearless Women In this workshop, you’ll learn the basics of six essential power saws: The Chainsaw, Table saw, Compound miter saw, Jigsaw, Sawzall, and the Skill saw. A focus on safety, technique, and practical applications, you’ll leave hankering to take on cool projects at home. Feb. 16, 1-4pm. 7783 NW 93rd St, Terrebonne, 7783 NW 93rd St, Terrebonne. Contact: 650224-6750. info@schoolofranch.org. $125.

Valentine’s Day Sip & Fuse Come with your sweetheart or give a special treat to yourself and learn the basics of creating fused glass art. Tools, materials, and some precut shapes will be available for you to build your design on a clear base piece. Create a Valentine-themed piece, or whatever you like! Feb. 14, 5-7pm. Carleton Manor Mosaics, 1776 NE 8th Street, Bend. Contact: 907-230-1785. jesica@carletonmanormosaics.com. $55. Valentine’s Day! Paint your partner/ friend/sibling Night! We’re doing a paint your partner/friend/sibling party for a fun Valentine’s Day memory that you can take with you! All supplies are provided, with limited availability, so come early! We open at 5pm. Take pics & tag us on Instagram. Feb. 14, 5pm-Midnight. Velvet, 805 NW Wall St., Bend. Contact: 541-357-2882. velvetbend@gmail.com. Free.

THEATER

“Grand Horizons” Preview Night Enjoy a supremely funny comedy of marital malaise, Bess Wohl’s Tony nominated comedy “Grand Horizons."First-come, first-served. No tickets are required - this event is sponsored by the Deschutes Public Library. Feb. 13, 7:30-10pm. Cascade Theatrical Company, 148 NW Greenwood, Bend. Contact: 541312-1029. laurelh@deschuteslibrary.org. Free.

Valentine’s Dinner and Theater at Maragas Winery Veteran actor/orator Alastair Morley Jaques gives us a unique twist on Valentine’s day. An Edgar Allan Poe and Clark Week creation that is perfect for lovers and for lovers of the macabre. Four-course dinner created by Mundrelli’s Kitchen. Feb. 14, 6-8:30pm. Maragas Winery, 15523 SW Hwy 97, Culver. Contact: 541546-5464. info@maragaswinery.com. $90.

OUTDOOR EVENTS

Crater Lake National Park

Snowshoe Tour Join Wanderlust Tours on an excursion of Oregon’s only National Park! Perched atop the 750-mile long cordillera, the world’s purest body of water awaits to astound you! Feb. 15, 8am-5pm. Wanderlust Tours, 61535 S Hwy 97, Bend. Contact: 541-389-8359. info@ wanderlusttours.com. $210.

Sagebrush Planting After McAffrey Fire In collaboration with the BLM, Native Plant Society of Oregon - High Desert Chapter is volunteering their time to help plant 200 Wyoming sagebrush plants into the McAffrey fire scar east of the Redmond Airport. Meeting location TBD. Please email hdceventscoordinator@gmail.com if you would like to participate. Feb. 15, 9amNoon. Redmond Airport, 2522 SE Jesse Butler Cir, #17, Redmond. Contact: hdceventscoordinator@gmail.com. Free.

GROUPS + MEETUPS

Bend Singles Ages 50-70 Bend Singles Meetup Group Ages 50-70. Casual, fun, no pressure evening with some prompts to get the conversations going! Host: Michele Hahn, JD, MFT. Feb. 16, 5-7pm. Bevel Craft Brewing, 911 SE Armour St., Bend. $5.82-4994. sheena_fischer@yahoo.com. $10.

Sip and Mingle ~ Find your Perfect Pairing Join us for a pre-Valentine's Day celebration including a 5-pour wine flight, charcuterie to snack on, laughs and good conversation as you mingle to find your perfect pairing. Feb. 13, 5:30-7pm. Willamette Valley Vineyards, 916 NW Wall St., Bend. Contact: 541-306-6000. bend@wvv.com. $25.

Speed Dating & Single Mingle at Bridge 99 (Ages 21-50) Calling all Central Oregon Singles! Ready to mingle? Join in the fun for a night of mingling and speed dating with other singles in the area! Female to Male Speed Dating for ages 21-50. Feb. 14, 6-8pm. Bridge 99 Brewery, 63063 Layton Ave., Bend. Contact: 541-323-0964.

FUNDRAISING

Sweet Soiree- A gala dessert Event uplifting children impacted by Foster Care Every Child Central Oregon uplifts children impacted by Foster Care with real stories, dessert auction and the LIVE BAND; Billy and the Box Kid. Come to learn and contribute to the work being throughout Central Oregon including; Deschutes, Crook, Jefferson and Warm Springs! Feb. 15, 7-10pm. Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Central OR, 61980 Skyline Ranch Rd, Bend. Contact: 541-610-9456. everychildcentraloregon@gmail.com. $50.

EVENTS + MARKETS

SDH Monthly On-site Adoption Event

Take home your new best friend! This is a perfect opportunity to meet our adoptable SDH pups. Have a dog in mind that you would like to take home from the event? Be sure to fill our an Adoption Application via our website prior to the event. Feb. 15, 10am-1pm. Street Dog Hero, 910 SE Wilson Ave. Suite A-1, Bend. Contact: 503329-7612. becky@streetdoghero.org. Free.

Valentine’s Day Partner Yoga Let go into a deep level of relaxation through connection and support with a dear friend, family member, or partner. We will celebrate love in all its forms! One registration is for two people. Feb. 14, 7-8:30pm. Namaspa Yoga Studio, 1135 NW Galveston Ave., Bend. Contact: 541-550-8550. info@namaspa.com. $45 per duo.

FOOD + DRINK

Holistic Ayurvedic Eating + Cooking Class: Ghee Me Some Breakfasts + Desserts! You will learn to make ghee, Ayurveda’s golden elixir, and use it to make delicious, porridges (that can double as desserts) and stewed fruits. In Ayurveda, starting the day with warm, augmenting, easily digestible foods promotes better energy levels. Feb. 16, 9-11am. Camp Glandy, 61360 King Solomon Ct., Bend. Contact: 541-420-9020. brandyberlin@gmail. com. $30-$70 tiered pricing.

Redmond Cookbook Club Join local home chefs for a potluck cooked from a different cookbook each month. Meet great people, enjoy delicious wine, and share fabulous food! Choose your recipe at our monthly happy hour on the 2nd Tuesdays, then bring your dish to the dinner party every 3rd Tuesday. Bon apetit! Arome, 432 SW 6th St., Redmond. Contact: 503-409-7944. kelsey.seymour@jillscookbookclub.com. $15.

Valentine’s Dinner Treat your Valentine to an exquisite Asian-inspired 5-course dining experience in Juniper Preserve’s newest restaurant, IRIS. A menu of curated courses that blend Asian fusion with gourmet luxury. Relax in our soft seating lounge in the elegant Chantrelle Ballroom + enjoy live music. Feb. 14, 5-9pm. Juniper Preserve, 65600 Pronghorn Club Dr., Bend. Contact: 866-320-5024. guest.services@ juniperpreserve.com. $95 per person.

BEER + DRINK

A ‘Lady and the Tramp’ Valentine’s Dinner Join us for a special ‘Lady & the Tramp’ Valentine's 3-course prix fixe menu! Featuring the famous spaghetti & meatballs. $85 includes choice of appetizer, entree and dessert with a glass of bubbly. Gratuity is not included. *Once you have booked, you will find options for your menu choices.* Feb. 14, 3-9pm. Flights Wine Bar, 1444 NW College Way Suite 1, Bend. Contact: 541728-0753. flightswinebend@gmail.com. $85.

Galentine’s Wine and Paint Night Join us on Thur., Feb 13, 7pm-9pm for a wine and paint night with Chalked Creative! Includes a glass of wine and all the painting supplies you’ll need. We recommend making an earlier reservation if you’d like dinner before. Thursdays are Fried Chicken and Champagne night at Flights! Feb. 13, 7-9pm. Flights Wine Bar, 1444 NW College Way Suite 1, Bend. Contact: 541-728-0753. flightswinebend@gmail.com. $48 + 20% gratuity added at event. Thorns and Udders Valentine’s Weekend Release Dinner Thorns and Udders Valentine’s weekend dinner special menu pairings Valentine’s Weekend. Feb. 14, Noon-9pm and Feb. 15, Noon-9pm. Sunriver Brewing Company, 57100 Beaver Drive, Sunriver. Free.

Valentine’s Chai, Cheese and Chocolate Cocktail Class Freeland invites you for a night of educational mixology and fun Chai featured cocktails for you and your valentine/galentine! Learn the tips and secrets from our expert mixologists and enjoy cheese and chocolate pairings along with a tasting flight and some Freeland history. Feb. 14, 5:30-7pm. Freeland Spirits Tasting Room, 550 SW Industrial Way Suite 190, Bend. Contact: 541-593-0129. bendtastingroom@ freelandspirits.com. $70-$120.

Valentine’s Day Dinner & a Movie This Valentine’s Day, prepare to be swept off your feet with an evening of “twue wuv” at Riverhouse Lodge’s Dinner & a Movie event. Savor a multi-course feast so delicious, you’ll be whispering, “I’ll likely kill you in the morning” to your diet. Each dish is crafted to awaken your senses and make every moment unforgettable. Feb. 14, 6:30-9:30pm. Riverhouse Lodge. Contact: 541-323-0964.

Valentine’s at Viaggio! Calling all Valentines and Galentines and Lovers of wine! We’re celebrating all weekend long with special Caviar + Bubbles for Two and pink wines galore, plus our usual menu of inspired European snacks and charcuterie. Pull up a cozy couch or a romantic bistro table and relax at Viaggio! Fri, Feb. 14, Noon-9pm, Sat, Feb. 15, Noon-9pm and Sun, Feb. 16, 2-8pm. Viaggio Wine Merchant, 210 SW Century Drive, Suite 160, Bend. Contact: 541-299-5060. info@viaggiowine.com. Varies by purchase.

Women Tasting Flights: Granville Wine Co. Women Tasting Flights event. 2 flights of wines with 2 food pairings and a special guest presenter. A monthly group of Women connecting with Wine and one another. Ayla Holstein, Owner of Granville Wine Company in Willamette Valley will be our presenter this month! Feb. 18, 5:30-7pm. Flights Wine Bar, 1444 NW College Way Suite 1, Bend. Contact: 541-728-0753. flightswinebend@gmail.com. $70.

HEALTH + WELLNESS

Cultivating Connection: A Partner Valentine’s Workshop Deepen the bonds of love through conscious connection and shared movement. This enchanting workshop invites couples to explore mindful conversation prompts and gentle partner yoga to nurture intimacy and harmony. Feb. 15, 1-4pm. Still Water Yoga & Wellness, 1375 SE Wilson Ave. Suite 180, Bend. Contact: 541-728-3630. info@ stillwateryoga.org. $150 per couple.

Unity Event Walk and Hike Feb 2025 Let’s walk along our beautiful Deschutes River trail and enjoy nature’s winter scene. Meet at the bridge at Riverbend Park. RSVP Suzanne at Suzanne.landry@att.net if you would like to join her for the walk. Feb. 15, 10-11:30am. Unity Community of Central Oregon, 63645 Scenic Drive, Bend. Contact: 805-729-2916. Suzanne. landry@att.net. Free.

After an eight-year absence, Alabama Shakes has reunited and announced a Bend stop on tour, which will showcase the band’s blend of rock, soul, alternative and blues music; Shannon and the Clams opens. Sun., Aug. 17, 7pm at Hayden Homes Amphitheater.

Alabama Shakes FB

CHOW

2025 Brings New Chef and Organic, Local Menu to The Jackalope Grill

Chef Josh Podwils focuses on simple dishes made with high-quality, local ingredients

By Skylor Young

Isecret garden here in Bend that serves organic, local dishes curated with the utmost attention to detail….” I’ve got great news. The Jackalope Grill is exactly what you’re looking for, and it’s right in the center of downtown Bend. When you arrive, you’ll walk through an arched nest of branches and twinkling lights to find yourself in a lounge and bar area with floating candles above your head and branches covered in moss hanging from the ceiling. Pass through this enchanting space to the patio, an enclosed courtyard exploding with herbs, vegetables and flowers when the season’s right. And while I wasn’t able to witness this in its full glory on my January visit, owner Laura Bliss gave me a tour and the rundown. During the spring and summer months, you can dine in the warm sun or under the moonlight surrounded by the thyme, mint and oregano plants that add to the delicious flavors on your plate. You’ll find tomatoes, beets and gorgeous flowers thriving, amplifying the sensory experience.

Bliss purchased The Jackalope Grill, formerly Tim Garling’s Jackalope Grill, in 2022. Since then, the restaurant has slowly been taking a new shape, but this past December undoubtedly marked an intentional pivot with chef Josh Podwils joining the Jackalope family. It was important to Bliss that the person she brought in was not only a skilled chef but also motivated by collaboration rather than ego. Their collective passion for organic, local food as well as an appreciation for family and community laid a great foundation for this new partnership and cohesion between the front of the house and the kitchen. Bliss says that “2025 marks a year of significant growth and transformation for us. Bringing Chef Podwils on board and granting him creative freedom has been a game-changer — our culinary vision has never been stronger.”

What does that vision look like? Podwils refined the menu to ensure that there’s a dish on there for everyone’s particular tastes, without flooding the page with options. In his words, “I’m not a fan of larger menus. I like to have smaller menus so it can change throughout the year, but you also get to focus on what you’re serving.” Each dish comes out of the kitchen with every detail dialed in, down to the temperature of the plate. My first course was the brussels sprout salad, charmingly named Jack Brussel. It arrived on a chilled plate and mastered the art of texture accompanied by a harmony of flavors. The sprouts were chopped finely, almost like angel hair pasta; the kale added volume to each bite; and the bacon and blue cheese — from Rogue Creamery in Southern Oregon — added an impactful, but not overpowering, savory counter to the craisins, apples and sweet apple vinaigrette.

The blue cheese is not the only item that’s locally sourced. Salmon, a staple of the menu and one of the few dishes you can find year-round, is sourced from Creative Salmon in British Columbia. It’s the first salmon farming company in North America to achieve Canadian organic certification. The mushrooms in the wild mushroom pasta are organic and wildcrafted in Oregon by MycoLogical, outside of Eugene. Which, by the way, is a dish you don’t want to miss. The handmade black pepper pappardelle noodles are soft and absorb the flavor of the oregano-thyme sauce; each bite is so rich and creamy. Even the bread that came before the meal (which is a dying luxury that I was particularly appreciative to see) was local. The French loaf from Bend’s own Big Ed’s was served with a fresh orange butter that was a refreshing delight not only before the meal but between courses as a palate cleanser. And

here’s a little pro tip that our server shared with us: Order the scallops and save a slice of bread to soak up the pancetta sauce when you’re done. The scallops themselves are cooked to perfection, with a crisp, salty outer layer surrounding a rich, creamy center, but the sauce is really where the dish shines and you won’t want to leave any of it on the plate.

If it’s not sourced locally, it’s sourced mindfully. Chef Podwils sources duck from Culver Duck Farms in Indiana because they have high standards and practice the “Five Freedoms of Animal Welfare.” Perhaps that’s part of what made the duck special I had so flavorful — a harmony of sweet and savory, akin to ham, with a texture similar to a rare steak. It was served with sweet potato gnocchi, made in-house and generously sized (almost like a dumpling), with a crispy outside and soft, dense core.

The best part of a properly portioned, threecourse meal made with organic vegetables, sustainably sourced meats and handmade pastas? You can feel great about ordering dessert! The gluten-free pavlova was a special treat for the senses. The meringue made a crunchy, thick snap when I drove my fork into it, but my expectations were quickly deceived as it dissolved quickly in my mouth once the sweetness hit my tongue. It was served with fresh berries, which added a gentle tartness and continued the party in my mouth long after the meringue melted. The flourless bourbon chocolate cake also caught me by surprise — where most flourless cakes are dense and offer more of a fudge-like experience, this cake was incredibly light and fluffy, making it far too easy to eat the whole piece without the richness being too extreme. Both desserts offer an energetic exclamation mark to cap a beautifully prepared meal and can be paired with a digestif from the extensive cocktail menu.

To experience this magical ambiance and specialized menu yourself, reservations are recommended. Your partner or best friend would be delighted to go here on Valentine’s Day, but if you missed the boat on making a reservation, have no fear. You can make up for it with a reservation to the wine pairing dinner with wines from Northern Spain’s La Rioja Alta on Feb. 27.

The Jackalope Grill Tue.-Sat., 5pm-close 750 NW Lava Rd., Ste. 139, Bend thejackalopegrill.com

Jack Brussel salad with brussels sprouts, kale, craisins, Rogue Creamery blue cheese, bacon and apple.

Pan-seared scallops with a pancetta cream sauce.

SkylorYoung

SkylorYoung

LITTLE BITES Papillon Brings a Taste of Morocco to Downtown Bend

By Savannah Mendoza

World-Renowned Ken’s Artisan Pizza Opens in Bend This Month

The award-winning, Neapolitan-style pizzeria is ready to serve its famed wood-fired pies in Central Oregon starting Feb. 20

One of the world’s best pizzerias is opening in Bend. Ken’s Artisan Pizza, a beloved Portland institution known for its Neapolitan-style pies, will open its doors on Thursday, Feb. 20 in downtown Bend’s historic Downing Building, which has been renovated from the former Seven nightclub space. The opening marks the end of a two-year journey to bring the award-winning pizzeria to Central Oregon.

Ken’s Artisan Pizza has earned national and international acclaim, ranking at number 27 on 50 Top Pizza’s list of the world’s best pizzerias and at number 5 in the U.S.A for 2024.

Now, Bend food lovers can experience the same wood-fired pizzas made with house-made mozzarella, slow-fermented dough and locally sourced

ingredients. The menu will also feature a variation of the Market Salad, inspired by seasonal offerings from the local farmers markets.

“I’m excited to finally share the experience of Ken’s Artisan Pizza with the people in Bend,” said owner Peter Kost.

The renovated space blends modern design with the building’s historic charm. The restaurant will be open Mondays and Thursdays from 5 to 9pm, Fridays and Saturdays from 5 to 10pm and 4:30 to 9pm on Sundays. It will be closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays.

Ken’s Artisan Pizza

Open Mon. and Thu., 5-9pm; Fri-Sat., 5-10pm; and Sun, 4:30-9pm 1033 NW Bond St., Bend kensartisan.com/pizza

On select evenings, Blissful Spoon transforms into an intimate, Moroccan-inspired dining experience with shareable dishes and craft cocktails

From Thursday to Saturday evening, Blissful Spoon, a gluten-free, European bistro in downtown Bend, transforms into Papillon — a cozy, Moroccan-inspired dining experience. By day, Blissful Spoon serves European-inspired brunch, but come evening, it shifts into Papillon, with an inviting ambiance and a menu celebrating the flavors of Morocco. With soft lighting, decorative panels and plush pillows, the space invites guests to share Mediterranean flavors with family and friends.

Papillon is the latest venture from Blissful Spoon founders Miki and Kamal Bekkari. Kamal, the executive chef, brings his Moroccan roots to the menu, offering an elevated take on traditional dishes.

“We wanted to bring something different to the Bend food scene,” says Miki Bekkari. “People are craving more variety and new flavors, as well as a place where they can relax — even if it’s just for dessert and a cocktail.”

The menu focuses on fresh, madefrom-scratch dishes usually with locally sourced ingredients. Served family style, highlights of the menu include Moroccan spice-rubbed ribs, duck à l’orange and braised lamb shank, alongside Moroccan hummus and a curated selection of wine and craft cocktails.

“Food in Morocco is an event, full stop, and that’s the type of experience that we hope to bring to Bend. We want to create a beautiful space where friends and family can come and enjoy an evening together,” adds Miki Bekkari. Papillon is open from 5 to 9pm, Thursday through Saturday. Reservations are available online and walk-ins are welcome.

5-9pm 65 NW Newport Ave., Bend blissfulspoon.com

Papillon by Blissful Spoon Thu.-Sat.,

Savannah Mendoza

Peter Kost

love of my life,

my Valentine always. You're beautiful, and I love you more. <3 Shawna

FSC Love, Sheep and Other Disasters Four movies, one man

By Jared Rasic

ebruary has been a mellow month for movies so far, with studios front-loading theaters with the midsize movies they don’t have a ton of faith in gaining box office momentum. This is normal as the studios usually wait until after the Oscars to start leaning into the films they’re excited for. February is historically when you’ll catch some stinkers or maybe even a hidden gem or two. Being that I had an entire day free this week, I went to my local cineplex and caught four movies of varying quality and differing genres: Three were romantic (it’s Valentine’s season after all) but wildly disparate, and one was about emo sheep ranchers. I regret nothing.

First was “Companion,” a movie so undermined by its own marketing that the filmmaker should sue the entire department. The second trailer gave away so much of the plot (which unfolds with one jaw-dropping twist after another) that I’m genuinely disappointed I didn’t go into it blind. All you need to know is this: A couple (played by the perfectly cast Sophie Thatcher and Jack Quaid) goes on a weekend trip to meet friends at a cabin in the woods and things go poorly — bloodily so.

The film approaches thematic ideas like consent, toxic masculinity and the sometimes-transactional nature of relationships with humor and intelligence, in much the same way that “The Substance” did. But it trades gratuitously extravagant maximalism for a gently cynical look at romance that plays perfectly as a poison-tipped subversion of Cupid’s arrow and the typical Valentine’s Day offerings we’re subjected to as an audience. Fun, smart, excellently acted and exciting in equal measures, I’m really hoping Quaid and Thatcher are bona fide movie stars after this.

Next was “Love Hurts,” the first big leading role from Ke Huy Quan (after his career-defining performance in “Everything Everywhere All at Once”). He plays Marvin Gable, a real estate agent who used to be a hitman for his brother, Knuckles, an underworld boss. Before retiring, Gable was supposed to kill Rose (Ariana DeBose) but fell in love and let her go instead. Now, Knuckles and his henchmen want revenge, and the entire movie is basically mild-mannered Gable learning to kick ass all over again.

This is one of those movies that exists as a vehicle for a very specific kind of actor: one who can play an

everyman but can also be badass at the same time. In the ’80s, this would’ve been a Stallone movie, ’90s would be Jackie Chan, ’00s would be Jason Statham, ’10s would be Liam Neeson, ’20s Keanu Reeves and so on. In fact, “Love Hurts” is from 87North, the same production company that puts out the “John Wick” movies so the emphasis is on the action scenes (most of which are just fine). But the problem is that the heart of the movie is supposed to be the romance between Quan and DeBose, neither of which have even a twinkle of chemistry with the other. DeBose, after winning an Oscar for “West Side Story,” has followed that up with “Argylle,” “Kraven the Hunter” and now this, which makes me think she needs a new agent, immediately. “Love Hurts” is quick and entertaining at points, but the dialogue, script and direction are so slapdash that it’s not remotely worthy of the work put in by Quan and DeBose.

I followed this up with “Heart Eyes,” a Valentine’s Day-themed slasher movie that manages to walk the line between romantic comedy and horror pretty perfectly until it becomes enthralled with its own lore by the end, focusing on ridiculous exposition dumps and ignoring what made the first two-thirds of the movie a low-key charmer. The central couple (played by the magnetic pairing of Olivia Holt and Mason Gooding) has charisma and chemistry to burn, genuinely making the audience care about their new romance and hoping that they survive the Heart Eyes killer, who only targets couples leading up to Valentine’s Day. It’s a perfect date movie (especially for teenagers) and, if you’re not hung up on the ridiculous plotting like me, a perfectly diverting 90 minutes of bloody, entertaining horror. It’s very dumb, but somehow that’s not totally a dealbreaker.

Finally, we have “Bring Them Down,” a revenge thriller starring Christopher Abbott and Barry Keoghan as neighboring sheep farmers feuding over a pair of stolen rams. Debut feature filmmaker Christopher Andrews crafts such an intense and mesmerizing look at warring families in the hills of Ireland that I felt like a fly on the wall, watching the inescapable disintegration of broken people breaking things. Keoghan employs his innate shiftiness that he brings to everything I’ve seen him play and deploys it perfectly, while Abbott once

again weaponizes that stillness he contains, creating a character that feels as real as a member of our family.

“Bring Them Down” is Irish shepherd neo-noir, which I’m pretty sure is an entirely new genre, so good on Andrews and team for creating a world unlike anything I’ve ever seen before. The film ratchets up tension so quietly that you don’t realize you’ve been death-gripping the arm rests until your hands start aching.

The highlight for me was easily “Bring Them Down,” but each film has a little something to offer depending on what you want from a movie. I can’t say “Love Hurts” is a good movie, but if you want a villain who murders people with a damn boba straw, then it won’t hurt to love. “Companion” has the twists and turns, “Heart Eyes” has the goofy, glossy horror, and “Bring Them Down” might give you some anxiety. Choose your own adventure.

“Companion”

Dir. Drew Hancock Now playing at Regal Old Mill, Redmond Cinema, Madras Cinema 5

“Love Hurts”

Dir. Jonathan Eusebio Now playing at Regal Old Mill, Redmond Cinema, Madras Cinema 5

“Heart Eyes”

B+ C A B

Dir. Josh Ruben Now playing at Regal Old Mill, Madras Cinema 5

“Bring Them Down”

Dir. Christopher Andrews Now playing at Regal Old Mill, Sisters Movie House

Did “Bring them Down” invent Shepherd noir? I’m pretty sure it did.

Wednesdays – Prime Rib

Classic Slow-roasted Prime Rib Dinner for just $35. 5pm until the last slice is gone.

Thursdays – Bingo & Build-Your-Own Pasta Dinner

Play Bingo for prizes 4 - 5pm, stay for a pasta dinner from 5-8:30pm.

Fridays – Live Music

Start your weekend with music and a sunset from 5:15 to 6:45pm.

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

By Savannah Mendoza

Sip, Savor and Celebrate at The Suttle Lodge’s Winter Beer Fest

A weekend of craft brews, live music and cozy winter fun at fifth annual, forested fest

Athree-day weekend filled with craft beer, fresh mountain air and a cozy lodge in the winter — few things capture the essence of Central Oregon quite like that. Beer lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike can head to The Suttle Lodge for a weekend of brews, live music and community when the lodge’s fifth annual Winter Beer Fest returns Friday, Feb. 21 through Sunday, Feb. 23, from noon to 5pm. Originally created to bring beer lovers together and highlight the diversity of craft brewing, the festival has grown into a must-attend winter event, drawing breweries and beer connoisseurs from across the region.

“Every year, we’ve been inspired by the enthusiasm and creativity of the breweries,” says Anne Wilson, sales manager at The Suttle Lodge & Boathouse. “The event is about celebrating both the craft and the community — where passionate brewers and beer lovers alike can come together over great beer and cider, lively conversations and the spirit of collaboration.”

This year’s festival features almost 50 craft breweries, including local favorites such as Bend Brewing, Sunriver Brewing and Crux, plus Portland’s Wayfinder Beer, Newberg’s Wolves & People and pFriem from Hood River. There’ll be special

Unleash Your Love

food offerings, live music and a welcoming atmosphere surrounded by towering pines. Guests should also look out for new festival merchandise, including mugs, sweatshirts and warms socks.

“What started as an intimate gathering with just a few local breweries has grown into a premier winter event, with an impressive 49 breweries participating this year,” Wilson says. “It’s a true testament to the growing craft beer community.”

Attendees can expect an exciting lineup of limited-edition and seasonal brews, from bold stouts to hop-forward IPAs from local and regional favorites, ensuring something for every palate. Since Suttle Lodge is a dog-friendly property, four-legged companions are welcome to join the fun.

To top it all off, the event supports a great cause: A portion of the proceeds will be donated to CASA of Central Oregon, which advocates for children in need.

The Suttle Lodge’s Winter Beer Fest Fri., Feb. 21-Sun, Feb. 23, Noon-5pm

The Suttle Lodge & Boathouse 13300 Hwy 20, Sisters bendticket.com/events/suttle-lodges-2025winter-beer-fest-2-7-2025 $15-$215

Photo Credit: Forrest Reinhart

Suttle Lodge & Boathouse FB

CRAFT Toasty Tipples Warm drinks for snowy days

By Alyson Brown

The best part of a winter day? Coming back inside, peeling off those frozen mittens and wrapping your hands around a steaming mug of something delicious. Whether you’ve been sledding, skiing or just braving the driveway like a shoveling champ, these winter warmers will thaw you out in no time. From spiked sippers to cozy, booze-free delights, here are four drinks to help you shake off the chill and get back to feeling toasty.

The Classic Hot Toddy: Reinvented

The hot toddy is a winter staple for a reason. Its blend of warm whiskey, honey, lemon and spices is the perfect antidote to cold weather. But why not give it a twist? Try mixing your toddy with pear or apple flavors, or swap out the whiskey for a spiced rum or cognac. Add cinnamon sticks or a few whole cloves for extra depth, and garnish with a lemon wheel.

Brazilian Mulled Wine: A Citrus Twist on a Classic

Forget the usual mulled wine — this Brazilian-inspired version brings a sunny, citrusy kick to the mix. Red wine simmers with lemon and lime slices, cinnamon sticks, cloves and star anise, creating a fragrant, soul-warming elixir. A splash of cachaça or white rum takes it up a notch. Perfect for sipping while you thaw out and pretend you’re somewhere tropical (even if there’s a blizzard outside).

Spiked Coffee Variations: Morning to Midnight Coffee lovers, rejoice! Winter is the perfect time to give your espresso martini obsession a break with warm, spiked coffee. Whether it’s an Irish coffee with whiskey and brown sugar, a Spanish coffee with aged rum and Kahlúa or a nutty latte spiked with Frangelico, there’s no shortage of ways to make your morning (or evening) brew a little cozier.

Nonalcoholic Warmers: Cozy Without the Booze Sometimes, you just want something cozy without the kick. Enter spiced apple cider, a nonalcoholic dream that still brings all the warm, fuzzy vibes. Simmer apple cider with cinnamon sticks, star anise and cloves, and

maybe even toss in some fresh ginger or a splash of vanilla for extra depth. It’s the perfect post-skiing treat. Hot tip: Pop it in the crockpot while you’re up at the mountain so when you get home the whole house will smell amazing.

MAKE IT!

Brazilian Mulled Wine (Quentão de Vinho)

• 1 bottle of red wine (Cabernet Sauvignon or Malbec work best)

• 1/2 cup cachaça or white rum

• 1/2 cup brown sugar

• 2 oranges (1 juiced, 1 sliced)

• 1 lemon, cut in half

• 1 lime, cut in half

• 3 cinnamon sticks

• 4 cloves

• 2 star anise

• 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, sliced

• 1/2 cup water

1. In a large pot over medium heat, combine the brown sugar, cinnamon sticks, cloves, star anise, ginger and water. Stir until the sugar dissolves and let the mixture simmer for about five minutes to release the spice flavors.

2. Add the orange juice, orange slices, lemon slices and lime slices. Stir and let it continue to simmer for another five minutes.

3. Pour in the red wine and cachaça (or white rum). Reduce the heat to low and let it warm through — do not boil, as you want to preserve the alcohol and the wine’s flavors.

4. After about 10 minutes, remove from heat. Let it sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

5. Serve warm in heatproof glasses or mugs. Garnish with a cinnamon stick, star anise, cloves and an extra slice of citrus.

Warming Up, One Sip at a Time Let’s be honest — after a day spent playing in the snow, you deserve more than just numb toes and rosy cheeks. Whether you prefer a spiced cider or something with a little kick, these cozy drinks are the perfect way to shake off the chill. Settle in, take a sip and let the warmth spread from your hands to your toes!

—Alyson Brown is a beverage photographer and drink stylist with an appreciation for a well-built cocktail. Her passion for cocktails led to her first book, “The Flower-Infused Cocktail: Flowers With A Twist.” Presently, Brown resides in The Stacks Art Studios & Gallery in the Old Mill District, situated right in the heart of Bend.

Alyson Brown

___ cannot live” (MLK Jr.)

35.  Jewelry exec ___ de Ramon

36.  Hit up a gastropub, say

38.  Negative word?

39.  Agitating in an unchanging way?

42.  Carry, with effort

43.  Vast amounts

44.  Wojcicki who co-founded 23andMe

45.  Minor bill

46.  Heads up?

47.  Siouan tribespeople

48.  Joe who appeared in four Scorsese movies

50.  Real bad

52.  Hayley Williams’s band is upset?

59.  ___ Fresh (Tex-Mex restaurant)

62.  Protection in space?

63.  Babymetal, e.g.

64.  Babymetal’s genre

65.  Where the severed employees work on “Severance”

66.  Star in Lyra

67.  Parts of a tennis score

68.  Lift up

69.  “I’m shocked!”

By Brendan Emmett Quigley

DOWN

1.  Weapon in “Ridley”

2.  Court reading

3.  Cheese plate cheese

4.  Hunter’s covering

5.  Halftime entertainer at Super Bowl LIX

6.  GUM rival

7.  Stand-up Ali 8.  Middle East dignitary

9.  Speed test?

10.  Wayne of The Flaming Lips

11.  Fire

12.  Cost for joining

13.  Tree-being of Middle-Earth

21.  Legal matter

22.  Muse of crosswords

25.  Weather phenomenon

26.  Singer Warwick

27.  Twilled fabrics

28.  Low quality content generated on ChatGPT, e.g.

29.  Harmonious

30.  Cuts some lines from a movie?

31.  World book?

32.  Bank offering

33.  Gingivitis irritates them

36.  “___ homo”

37.  Did a perfect jon on

40.  Ephesus’s region

41.  Like “Bluey” or “Peppa Pig”

47.  Picked out rock

49.  Machines that help you breathe easier at night

50.  “Unh-uh”

51.  Woman’s name that means “peace”

53.  Series part

54.  Blue, in Barcelona

55.  Home of Frida Kahlo’s “Self-Portrait with Cropped Hair”

56.  Nabisco classic

57.  Dome pieces?

58.  Ham’s dad

59.  Sam’s Club rival

60.  Copy

61.  Scribble in the margins

Puzzle for the week of February 10, 2025

Pearl’s Puzzle

Puzzle for the week of February 10, 2025

Difficulty Level:

Fill in every row, column, and 3x3 box with each of the letters T I D A L C H E W exactly once.

The highlighted letters read left to right and top to bottom will complete the quote: “Men are from Earth. Women are from Earth. ” - George Carlin

ANSWER TO LAST WEEK'S PUZZLES

Answer for the week of February 3, 2025

- George Carlin

Answer for the week of February 3, 2025

“Love can change a person the way a parent can change a baby -- awkwardly, and often with a great deal of mess.” —Daniel Handler

change

RUNNERS!

Free: Copy and paste this link to get four unconventional running form tips and a free introductory lesson. Learn how and how not to use your glutes: improve.awareathlete.com/improveawareathletecom

ask

ASTROLOGY

By Rob Brezsny

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Borrowing the words of Aquarian author Virginia Woolf, I've prepared a love note for you to use as your own. Feel free to give these words to the person whose destiny needs to be woven more closely together with yours. "You are the tide that sweeps through the corridors of my mind, a wild rhythm that fills my empty spaces with the echo of eternity. You are the unspoken sentence in my every thought, the shadow and the light interwoven in the fabric of my being. You are the pulse of the universe pressing against my skin, the quiet chaos of love that refuses to be named. You are my uncharted shore."

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): Love and intimacy and togetherness are fun, yes. But they’re also hard work—especially if you want to make the fun last. This will be your specialty in the coming months. I’ve assembled four quotes to inspire you. 1. "The essence of marriage is not that it provides a happy ending, but that it provides a promising beginning— and then you keep beginning again, day after day." —Gabriel García Márquez. 2. "The secret of a happy marriage remains a secret. But those who follow the art of creating it day after day come closest to discovering it." —Pearl Buck. 3. "Love is a continuous act of forgiveness." —Maya Angelou. 4. "In the best of relationships, daily rebuilding is a mutual process. Each partner helps the other grow." —Virginia Satir

ARIES (March 21-April 19): Love requires stability and steadiness to thrive. But it also needs unpredictability and imaginativeness. The same with friendship. Without creative touches and departures from routine, even strong alliances can atrophy into mere sentiment and boring dutifulness. With this in mind, and in accordance with astrological omens, I offer quotes to inspire your quest to keep togetherness fertile and flourishing. 1. "Love has no rules except those we invent, moment by moment." —Anaïs Nin. 2. "The essence of love is invention. Lovers should always dream and create their own world." —Jorge Luis Borges. 3. "A successful relationship requires falling in love many times, always with the same person, but never in quite the same way." —Mignon McLaughlin.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): In 2025, the role that togetherness plays in your life will inspire you to achieve unexpected personal accomplishments. Companionship and alliances may even stir up destiny-changing developments. To get you primed, I offer these quotes: 1. "Love is a trick that nature plays on us to achieve the impossible." —William Somerset Maugham. 2. "Love is the ultimate outlaw. It won't adhere to any rules. The most any of us can do is sign on as its accomplice." —Tom Robbins. 3. "Whatever our souls are made of, his and mine are the same. Yet each day reveals new constellations in our shared sky." —Emily Brontë. VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Psychotherapist Robin Norwood wrote that some people, mostly women, give too much love and kindness. They neglect their own self-care as they attend generously to the needs of others. They may even provide nurturing and support to those who don't appreciate it or return the favor. Author Anne Morrow Lindbergh expressed a different perspective. She wrote, “No one has ever loved anyone too much. We just haven't learned yet how to love enough.” What's your position on this issue, Virgo? It’s time for you to come to a new understanding of exactly how much giving is correct for you.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Are you ready to express your affection with lush and lavish exuberance? I hope so. Now would be an excellent time, astrologically speaking. I dare you to give the following words, composed by poet Pablo Neruda, to a person who will be receptive to them. "You are the keeper of my wildest storms, the green shoot splitting the stone of my silence. Your love wraps me in galaxies, crowns me with the salt of the sea, and fills my lungs with the language of the earth. You are the voice of the rivers, the crest of the waves, the pulse of the stars. With every word you speak, you unweave my solitude and knit me into eternity."

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): In celebration of the Valentine season, I suggest you get blithely unshackled in your approach to love. Be loose, limber, and playful. To stimulate the romantic and intimate qualities I think you should emphasize, I offer you these quotes: 1. "Love is the endless apprenticeship of two souls daring to be both sanctuary and storm for one another." —Rainer Maria Rilke 2. "Love is the revolution in which we dismantle the prisons of our fear, building a world where our truths can stand naked and unashamed." —Audre Lorde. 3. "Love is the rebellion that tears down walls within and between us, making room for the unruly beauty of our shared becoming." —Adrienne Rich.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): To honor the rowdy Valentine spirit, I invite you to either use the following passage or compose one like it, then offer it to a willing recipient who would love to go deeper with you: "Be my thunderclap, my cascade of shooting stars. Be my echo across the valley, my rebel hymn, my riddle with no answer. Be my just-before-you-wake-up-dream. Be my tectonic shift. Be my black pearl, my vacation from gloom and doom, my forbidden dance. Be my river-song in F major, my wild-eyed prophet, my moonlit debate, my infinite possibility. Be my trembling, blooming, spiraling, and soaring."

CANCER (June 21-July 22): Cancerian author Elizabeth Gilbert wrote, "The universe buries strange jewels deep within us all.” One of those strange jewels in you is emerging from its hiding place. Any day now, it will reveal at least some of its spectacular beauty— to be followed by more in the subsequent weeks. Are you ready to be surprised by your secret self? Are your beloved allies ready? A bloom this magnificent could require adjustments. You and yours may have to expand your horizons together.

Homework:

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Among its potential gifts, astrology can raise our awareness of the cyclical nature of life. When used well, it helps us know when there are favorable times to enhance and upgrade specific areas of our lives. For example, in the coming weeks, you Scorpios could make progress on building a strong foundation for the future of love. You will rouse sweet fortune for yourself and those you care for if you infuse your best relationships with extra steadiness and stability.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): I want you to be moved by intimacy and friendships that buoy your soul, inspire your expansive mind, and pique your sense of adventure. To boost the likelihood they will flow your way in abundance during the coming weeks, I offer you these quotes. 1. "Love is a madness so discreet that we carry its delicious wounds for a lifetime as if they were precious gems." —Federico García Lorca. 2. "Love is not a vacation from life. It's a parallel universe where everything ordinary becomes extraordinary." —Anne Morrow Lindbergh. 3. "Where there is love there is life. And where there is life, there is mischief in the making." —my Sagittarius friend Artemisia.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): Every intimate alliance is unique, has its own rules, and shouldn't be compared to any standard. This is a key theme for you to embrace right now. Below are helpful quotes. 1. "Each couple's love story is a language only they can speak, with words only they can define." —Federico Fellini. 2. "In every true marriage, each serves as guide and companion to the other toward a shared enlightenment that no one else could possibly share." —Joseph Campbell. 3. "The beauty of marriage is not in its uniformity but in how each couple writes their own story, following no map but the one they draw together." —Isabel Allende. 4. "Marriages are like fingerprints; each one is different, and each one is beautiful." —Maggie Reyes.

UNDERSTANDING INTIMACY

A COLUMN THAT FOSTERS DEEPER LOVE BETWEEN COUPLES

By Dr. Jane Guyn

How to create the perfect Valentine’s Day date

Dear Dr. Jane,

I love my wife. She’s amazing. Our love life is pretty good, but I’m really bad at showing her how much I love her on Valentine’s Day. The other day, I heard her talking to her best friend about it. She was putting me down a little bit. This Valentine’s Day, I want to blow her mind. She likes the small gestures, a nice dinner out and some gifts. I’ve done these things in the past, but our dates have been just meh. What are your suggestions for the perfect Valentine’s Day date?

From,

Hopeful Husband in Bend

Dear Hopeful,

This is a wonderful question.

What matters to your partner is your attention and care. The love you put into planning the date will shine through to her. Just like a beautiful restaurant sets the stage for a memorable evening, every detail counts.

Create a plan for your evening. Think of it as a run of show. Proper preparation will make all the difference. When you’re confident in the planning, she’ll respond by being more open to romance with you.

Set the Stage

that she can plan her outfit for you. If you’re like lots of couples, she often takes care of things like plans and reservations. During dinner, talk about something sexy and intimate — no conversations about the kids, work or money.

Since you’re married and live together, getting your house clean and tidy is an important first step. Vacuum and dust, clean the bathroom, put away clutter. These things may seem unimportant to you, but they matter to her. It’s difficult for her to really relax in her home when surrounded by things that need doing.

I also recommend getting a massage table for your house if that’s possible. A massage table can be fairly inexpensive and will fold up to go under a bed for storage. Set up the massage table as part of your preparation. After you get home from dinner, she’ll love having your hands on her.

Give Her Some Gifts

Give her something sensual. Buy her an incredibly soft blanket throw — in white — like a beautiful, sexy cloud that she can use to cuddle up with a book or her phone on a chilly evening. She might also like a delicate necklace with a small heart on it, or some sexy earrings. Be sure you know if she has sensitivity to metals as you make your selections. Knowing what she really likes is key here.

Go Out to Dinner

You’ll need to make a reservation for your Valentine’s Day date. Find a nice restaurant and let her know what type of dress will be required so

Come Home for Some Connection

After dinner, come home and connect. You might give her a massage or take a bath together. You could sit and talk on the couch and make out like you did when you first met. Don’t rush quickly to take care of the dogs or mail. Treat her the way you would if she were someone you’d recently met, someone you wanted to impress and seduce. Let things flow. Maybe she’d like to get in bed right away. That’s totally allowed. One important point: Don’t get on your phones. If possible, turn them off. Or at a minimum, put them on silent.

Fall

Asleep Rested and Relaxed

You may make love or you may not. But whatever happens, realize that you’ve done a beautiful job showing her how much you love her. Tuck in together, tell her how much you care and happily drift off to sleep.

Xoxo Dr. Jane

Whether your date goes exactly like this or includes something very different, what matters is that you make space in your lives to be together in a romantic and intimate way. Be present throughout. Listen to each other. Tell each other how much you mean to each other. You got this.

PS: Other tips: Shave, trim your nose and ear hair, wear a button-up shirt, nice dark jeans and the lace up shoes that she likes — even though they aren’t as comfortable as your slipons. This stuff matters.

TAKE ME HOME

The 3 Biggest Mistakes Sellers Are Making Right Now

By RE/MAX Key Properties, courtesy of Keeping

If you want to sell your house, having the right strategies and expectations is key. But some sellers haven’t adjusted to where the market is today. They’re not factoring in that there are more homes for sale or that buyers are being more selective with their budgets. And those sellers are making some costly mistakes.

Here’s a quick rundown of the three most common missteps sellers are making, and how partnering with an expert agent can help you avoid every single one of them.

1. Pricing the Home Too High

According to a survey by John Burns Real Estate Consulting and Keeping Current Matters, real estate agents agree that the number one thing sellers struggle with right now is setting the right price for their house. More often than not, homeowners tend to overprice their listings. If you aren’t up to speed on what’s happening in your local market, you may give in to the temptation to price high so you can have as much wiggle room as possible to negotiate. You don’t want to do this.

Today’s buyers are more cautious due to higher rates and tight budgets, and a price that feels out of reach will scare them off. And if no one’s looking at your house, how’s it going to sell? This is exactly why more sellers are having to do price cuts. To avoid this headache, trust your agent’s expertise from day one. A great agent will be able to tell you what your neighbor’s house just sold for and how that impacts the value of your home.

2. Skipping Repairs

Another common mistake is trying to avoid doing work on your house. That

Current Matters

leaky faucet or squeaky door might not bother you, but to buyers, small maintenance issues can be red flags. They may assume those little flaws are signs of bigger problems — and it could cost you when offers come in lower or buyers ask for concessions.

The solution? Work with your agent to prioritize anything you’ll need to tackle before the photographer comes in. These minor upgrades can pay off big when it’s time to sell.

3. Refusing to Negotiate

Buyers today are feeling the pinch of high home prices and mortgage rates. With affordability that tight, they may come in with an offer that’s lower than you want to see. Don’t take it personally. Instead, focus on the end goal: selling your house. Your agent can help you negotiate confidently without letting emotions cloud your judgment.

At the same time, with more homes on the market, buyers have options — and with that comes more negotiating power. They may ask for repairs, closing cost assistance or other concessions. Be prepared to have these conversations. Again, lean on your agent to guide you. Sometimes a small compromise can seal the deal without derailing your bottom line.

The Biggest Mistake of All? Not Using a Real Estate Agent

Notice anything? For each of these mistakes, partnering with an agent helps prevent them from happening in the first place. That makes trying to sell your house without an agent’s help the biggest mistake of all. Avoid these common mistakes by starting with the right plan — and the right agent.