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Rooftop Bar in Redmond Offers a Breathtaking View and Sustainable Dining Experience

Local Cuisine and 360-Degree Views

Set against the panoramic backdrop of the Cascade Range, The Rooftop in Redmond makes you wonder why there aren’t more rooftop bars in Central Oregon. The space atop the SCP Redmond Hotel dazzles with atmosphere, local cuisine and inspired ethos.

Spanning 1,500 square feet, the flex indoor and outdoor space provides guests with intimate seating amidst native gardens with vistas of the Three Sisters, Mount Bachelor, Black Butte and Smith Rock State Park.

According to Tobias Colvin, SCP Redmond’s general manager, “This is the place to visit for amazing sunsets, cuddly couches, glowing fireplaces and perfectly executed after-dinner drinks and desserts—ideal for romantic date nights or aprés-adventure storytelling.”

The menu reflects SCP’s core values of sustainability, community and wellness. Joseph Ortiz, the executive chef at The Rooftop explained, “The menu is influenced by blue zones and Mediterranean-style Pacific Northwest crops featuring fresh ingredients sourced from local farms, foraged from the region’s land as well as SCP Redmond Hotel’s very own rooftop garden.” The result is a plant-forward menu offering nourishing light bites, shareable plates and carefully crafted beverages. Partnerships with local farmers in the high desert community prioritize both diner health and environmental sustainability.

Standout dishes include the grilled watermelon with burrata, a refreshing and flavorful starter evoking the essence of summer. The jackfruit nachos offer bold and hearty flavors crafted from plant-based ingredients for the adventurous palate. The pizzas feature a 72-hour fermented poolish dough for a crust that’s both flavorful and easily digestible. Ortiz added, “Our special sourdough culture has been carefully developed over time with a focus on promoting healthy digestion and a strong immune system.”

The menu’s “hyper-local” ingredients are mentioned often for good reason. “Perennial plantings such as mulberries, strawberries, pears, cilantro, mint, parsley, rosemary and apples thrive in SCP Redmond’s gardens,” Colvin noted. These ingredients aren’t merely garnishes; they play a central role in the cocktail menu as well.

From Garden by the Sea, a snap pea daiquiri with fresh cucumber and snap pea-infused rum, to the Matcha Do About Nothing, incorporating vodka infused with Metolius matcha and honey, each drink offers local flavors that make for bright and effervescent summer patio cocktails. Additionally, The Rooftop offers an array of thoughtful nonalcoholic refreshments, such as the 6 am at the Farmer’s Market, a herbaceous spritzer blending fresh herbs, green tea and house-made celery shrub.

Since its inception, The Rooftop has become a gathering place for Central Oregonians. “It provides a space for the community to gather and celebrate,” Colvin reflected. From hosting weddings to offering a space for locals and travelers alike to unwind and connect, The Rooftop has become a cornerstone of the area — with a bird’s eye view.

The Rooftop at SCP Redmond | 521 SW 6th St., Ste 100, Redmond
(541) 508-7600 | scphotel.com

A Wellness-Inspired Getaway to Central Oregon

With endless opportunities for recreation, nourishing cuisine and a peaceful high desert landscape, Central Oregon is an ideal destination for a wellness-focused getaway in the heart of Oregon. Not sure where to start or how to plan such an escape? Read on for a detailed itinerary for a weekend of relaxing, recharging and soothing the soul.

Day 1

Afternoon

Check-in at SCP Redmond Hotel, the eco-friendly hotel located in Redmond’s quaint downtown. With its warm and earthy design elements inspired by the Central Oregon landscape, you’ll begin to feel at ease the moment you arrive.

For a truly immersive wellness experience, be sure to book a Peaceful Room mindfully designed to enhance relaxation and encourage better sleep. With a meditation pillow, oil diffuser, yoga mat and no electronic screen, it’s the perfect sanctuary for some much-deserved rest and relaxation.

Once settled in, head outdoors to spend the rest of the afternoon soaking up the Central Oregon scenery. The Eagle Crest River Walk is an easy 2.5-mile trail near Redmond that’s perfect for trail running or a leisurely stroll along the river.

Evening

When you return, make your way to The Rooftop, the hotel’s rooftop garden for craft cocktails and local bites to toast your arrival. Find yourself surrounded by a serene native garden and panoramic views of the Cascade mountain range. With the best seat in Central Oregon to watch the sunset, it’s guaranteed to be an unforgettable dining experience.

The views are just the beginning; the beautiful cuisine is the true show-stopper. Each cocktail and mocktail features fresh fruits and herbs picked from the rooftop garden and the small plates are crafted with locally sourced ingredients.

Once the sun has set and you feel satiated, retreat to your room for a relaxing evening. Fall asleep soundly, knowing that you’re not only taking care of yourself but also directly supporting organizations making a positive social impact. With each stay at an SCP Hotel, you provide one adolescent with mental health resources, light the home of one family caring for a critically ill child for 24 hours, and plant one tree in an unnaturally deforested area.

Day 2: Morning

Start the morning by elevating your heart rate at SCP Fit in the hotel. The state-of-the-art boutique fitness space is fully equipped with Peloton bikes, TRX machines, and weight racks, available for any hotel guest to use. Once you’ve worked up a sweat, take a quiet moment in the peaceful meditation room to clear your head and set an intention for your day.

Next, head to Provisions Market to fuel up with a plant-forward breakfast. The menu features items such as a bagel breakfast sandwich with eggs from a local farm, french toast with sourdough from a nearby bakery, and oatmeal topped with fresh Oregon berries. Refreshing smoothies and locally roasted coffee are also available.

With a day of activity ahead, grab a salad or sandwich to-go so you can fuel up later in the day. The Mediterranean hummus wrap and crunchy cashew quinoa salad come with high praise.

Once you’ve stocked up, it’s time for some soul-enriching, heart-pumping time in nature. Grab a water bottle and throw on your favorite adventure apparel, we’re heading to Smith Rock State Park.

Afternoon

Located just fifteen minutes from downtown Redmond, Smith Rock is home to scenic hiking trails, rugged canyon landscapes and world-renowned rock climbing. The best way to see everything that this state park offers is by hiking the Misery Ridge loop. This hike is more breathtaking than miserable. The summit provides an insane bird’s eye view of Central Oregon, making it the perfect spot to stop and catch your breath before continuing.

Afterward, make your way back to the hotel and take some time to unwind. If you have work that needs to be done, head to SCP Commons, a beautiful coworking space designed to inspire both creativity and productivity.

Once you’re done with work for the day, swing by the Wayfarer Club for tavern-inspired small plates such as Spanish roasted nuts, citrus marinated olives, jackfruit tacos and more. There is also an extensive libations menu to browse through. Check out one of the adventure books laying around and enjoy a cozy afternoon. It’s been a busy day and there’s still a night full of nourishing food and fun waiting for you.

Evening

Dinner at Terra Kitchen, SCP’s plant-forward and locally sourced restaurant is an absolute must. The true farm-to-table dining experience is committed to crafting food that’s good for you, good for the community, good for the planet…and just really, really good. The kitchen’s close partnership with surrounding farms allows it to source the freshest ingredients possible while also supporting the burgeoning local food scene. The seasonally rotating menu draws inspiration from blue zones, Mediterranean cuisine and Pacific Northwest crops, resulting in a fusion of healthy, flavorful and sustainable dishes.

For an appetizer, try the Mushroom Pesto Tartine. It is grilled rye sourdough topped with kale pesto, mushroom duxelles, manchego, Fresno pepper, citrus arugula and hazelnut. For a refreshing salad, try the Terra Summer Salad. It’s full of local leafy greens, burrata, grilled watermelon, sugar snap peas, sunflower seeds and mint, all tossed with a ginger lemon vinaigrette. Check out the libations menu for a wide variety of handcrafted cocktails and mocktails, natural wines, and local beers – guaranteed to enhance your dining experience.

The Farm Vegetable Paella is a delicious first-course option. This dish offers aromatic saffron rice mixed with chorizo-seasoned cauliflower, snap peas, fennel, kale and whipped ricotta-chevre. It’s then topped with harissa-romesco sauce and a piece of grilled bread. The Primavera Pasta is another nutrient-dense and flavorful dish. Linguini is served with tarragon kale pesto, roasted garlic, cured egg yolk, charred broccolini, and garlic scapes.

With the brûlée cheesecake, a handcrafted Medjool and walnut crust filled with marionberry compote, you no longer have to choose between your wellbeing and a mouthwatering dessert.

Day 3: Morning

Before packing your bags, begin your morning with another sweat at SCP Fit or with a moment of gratitude in the meditation room. Enjoy breakfast at Provisions Market and grab some healthy snacks for the road. Leave feeling nourished and refueled, dreaming of the next time you’ll be back.

SCP Redmond Hotel | https://scphotel.com/redmond/ | (541) 508-7600

Toasting the Rogue Valley

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With so much to experience in the Rogue Valley, don’t forget that this area is home to 1,000 acres of vineyards that offer diverse wines and almost 100 wineries with picturesque tasting rooms. The area isn’t just abundant in wine but has a vibrant culinary, arts and culture scene, as well as offers easy access to outdoor recreation and natural scenery. In fact, Wine Enthusiast Magazine has named the Rogue Valley one of the top five wine destinations in the world. Whether you’re a seasoned wine connoisseur or simply want to explore a new region while enjoying excellent add-on activities for the entire family, here are ten reasons why the Rogue Valley should be on your must-visit list.

Diversity of Grape Varieties

The Rogue Valley’s wide range of landscapes allows winemakers to produce a spectrum of varietals, making it one of the region’s biggest draws. Sitting around 1,000 feet above sea level and framed in by the Cascade and Siskiyou mountain ranges, the valley boasts four full seasons and ample microclimates within a one-hour radius that is the Rogue Valley. Thanks to the region’s diversity of soil, altitude and temperature, winemakers in the Rogue Valley can grow over 70 different varieties of grapes successfully. Whether you prefer warm-climate wine varieties such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah and Malbec, or cooler-climate wines like Pinot Gris, Chardonnay and Viognier, there will always be something new to try every time you visit the Rogue Valley.

Scenic Tasting Rooms in the Rogue Valley

The region’s natural beauty adds to the wine-tasting experience with scenic tasting-room views, historic buildings and rolling vineyards. Book a tasting at Kriselle Cellars, DANCIN Vineyards or Irvine & Roberts Vineyards for panoramic scenes of the surrounding countryside. Relax and savor a glass of wine while taking in the limitless vistas. Indulge in a one-of-a-kind luxury experience with Rogue Picnics, which curates private pop-up picnics that you enjoy at your favorite vineyards.

Rogue Valley Wine History

The wine history of Rogue Valley dates back to the mid-19th century when European immigrants started planting grapevines and producing wine. Peter Britt, an early settler, joined the venture in 1852 and opened Oregon’s first official winery, Valley View Winery, in 1873. Despite closing in 1907, the legacy of Valley View Winery lives on today, thanks to the Wisnovsky family, who resurrected the winery in 1972 and can still be visited on a trip to the Rogue Valley.

Sustainable Practices

Many of the Rogue Valley wineries prioritize sustainability practices and keep land stewardship at the forefront of their farming priorities. Enjoy a tasting at Troon Vineyards, Oregon’s only biodynamic certified and certified regenerative-organic winery. Biodynamic farming practices take a holistic approach to winemaking, resulting in healthier soil, stronger vines and exceptional wines that express the vineyard’s terroir. This environmentally-friendly approach to winemaking benefits the ecosystem in which it is produced, promoting long-term sustainability of both the physical land where vineyards grow and the wines they produce.

Wine Events in the Rogue Valley

The Rogue Valley features several wine festivals and special tastings throughout the year. These events are an excellent opportunity for wine enthusiasts to taste new wines and learn from experts. In May, Roam the Rogue puts together guided tours of the region’s wineries to celebrate Oregon Wine Month. Another popular event is the Oregon Wine Experience in August, a week-long celebration of the state’s wine industry. This event brings together more than 100 wineries for tastings and competitions, with all proceeds going to the Children’s Miracle Network. You can also immerse yourself in the Heart of the Rogue Festival’s Wine Country Lane in October.

Wine Trails

If you’re eager to explore the wine country but are feeling unsure about where to begin, don’t worry. Within the region, four wine trails—the Upper Rogue, Applegate, Bear Creek and Jacksonville wine trails—lead visitors through breathtaking landscapes with stops at the finest vineyards. Whether you choose to embark on a self-guided tour or book a trip with a tour company such as Wine Hopper, Bravo Outings or Main Street Adventure Tours, you’re guaranteed to have an unforgettable wine-tasting experience.

Farm-to-Table Dining

The Rogue Valley is also known for its growing culinary scene, pun intended. The region is dotted with farms and ranches across the valley which result in plenty of farm-to-table dining experiences to enjoy, local farmers markets to peruse, and excellent fresh food, including high-quality locally sourced cheese, to pair with your wine. In the last few years, the area has seen an influx of high-quality restaurants and renowned chefs, along with the opening of new distilleries and breweries.

Access to Outdoor Recreation

The Rogue Valley is also a top destination for those seeking world-class wine as well as exciting outdoor adventure. The valley is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with numerous iconic landmarks you cannot miss like the Table Rock Plateaus, Roxyann Peak and more. The wild and scenic Rogue River, which flows through the region, is ideal for white-water expeditions, and with the world-famous Crater Lake National Park just a short drive away, you could be hiking around a national landmark in the morning and tasting local wines in the afternoon.

Vibrant Arts Scene

In addition to outdoor recreation, the Rogue Valley is also known for its thriving arts and culture scene. Enjoy the vineyards and views during the day and catch a live-show at the Craterian Theatre in downtown Medford after dinner. Other cultural attractions include live music, with the Britt Music and Arts Festival happening annually in the region, and enjoy makers’ markets and local galleries throughout the year.

Accommodation Options

The Rogue Valley offers accommodation options that suit a wide range of budgets and aesthetic preferences. Indulge in the charm of the region by booking a cozy bed and breakfast or historic hotel located in one of the quaint downtown areas. Compass Hotel by Margaritaville is the PNW’s first Margaritaville property and located in Medford. Rogue Regency Inn is Medford’s largest, full-service hotel boasting on-site sports bar, comedy club and indoor year around pool. Plan your visit at travelmedford.org.

Learn more about Adventure in the Rogue Valley. | Read more about adventure in our region here.

The Ultimate Eugene and Oregon Coast Getaway

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As flowers are beginning to bloom and the sun is peeking through the winter clouds, the itch to get out on the road and discover is more persistent than ever. When we think of Oregon, many think of thickets of trees, mountains and a wild ocean crashing against a sandy, rocky shore. What if there was a getaway that encapsulated those breathtaking sights, offered superb shopping options and top-notch dining spots to top it all off? A trip from Eugene to the Central Oregon Coast does just that, and here are a few must-sees, must-try and must-stays along the way.

Eugene

Start your road trip in Eugene, known to many Oregonians as “TrackTown USA.” Whether you’re a sports fan or not, you’ll leave Eugene as an Oregon Duck fan because of the energy and sportsmanship found in Eugene. Maybe you’re visiting for the Prefontaine Classic held every year at the University of Oregon. No matter whether you’re hoping to check off a glance at the historic Hayward Field, or are touring the University of Oregon with a prospective college-graduate, Eugene is more than a runner’s town. Stick around to explore the city this spring, before jetting out to the coast.

Grab lunch at the popular 5th Street Public Market shopping district. Choose from a number of restaurants including Carlita’s Rooftop on the seventh floor of The Gordon Hotel for a 21+ option with happy hour, or for a family-friendly establishment with a kid’s menu, try Sushi Station. After lunch, shop until your heart’s content at the 5th Street Public Market, and find boutiques and gift shops within the district. Explore Marley’s Monsters, featuring zero-waste products, or the Made in Oregon Store, selling products only made in—you guessed it—Oregon. When you’ve made your way through the hidden gems of the shopping center, it’s time for one more stop. Back on the university campus, check out the Jordan Schnitzer Museum of Art, with both beautiful and thought-provoking exhibits, visitors will want to explore the museum up until close. After finding dinner, perhaps at one of the many duck-themed restaurants near campus such as Track Town Pizza, take a drive across the river and check in to your hotel for the night.

Fifth Street Public Market in Eugene, Lane County /Joni Kabana / EugeneCascadesCoast.org

Hyatt Place is centrally located in Eugene, offering a variety of views from almost every room. Once you drop your bags in one of the luxe rooms, head to the Sky Bar, and discover panoramic scenes of Eugene surrounding the hotel. Order a nightcap to toast to new adventures.

Florence

Hop on Highway 126 and don’t stop until you see the Pacific. The drive from Eugene to Florence is approximately an hour, but there are plenty of sightseeing options to turn the quick jaunt into a journey. Look for waterfall viewing areas, and once you reach Mapleton, the Siuslaw River which spills into the Pacific Ocean—a sign you’re not too far from the destination. In Mapleton, choose to keep driving to the coast, or break off for a pit stop hike at Sweet Creek Falls, where multiple trail heads let you customize your adventure. Stretch your legs and enjoy picturesque views of the cascading waterfalls before getting back on the road to your next destination.

Sweet Creek Falls / Thomas Moser / EugeneCascadesCoast.org

Once you’ve arrived in Florence, head straight for the beach. Spring at the Oregon Coast can be magical, and there are plenty of convenient options for beaches nearby, including both North and South Jetty beaches. If historic landmarks are up your alley, check out Heceta Head Lightstation—a lighthouse that has been sitting on the Oregon Coast since 1894. The lighthouse is now a place for tourists and locals to learn the expansive history, and even stay overnight at a unique lodging option.

Heceta Head Lighthouse from trail / Natalie Inouye / EugeneCascadesCoast.org

After spending time in the sun and dipping your toes in the Pacific, it’s time for a rare experience that only Florence can offer. Head north on historic Highway 101, and 15 minutes later, find yourself in the parking lot of the Sea Lion Caves. Take the walk down to the elevator which lowers into the caves. There, watch as sea lions dip in and out of the caves and into crashing waves. Following this rare and exciting excursion, check into the Three Rivers Casino Resort, not only offers comfortable lodging, but plenty of dining options and a golf course. If you’re hoping to venture out for dinner, try The Waterfront Depot Restaurant and enjoy quality seafood while gazing upon the beautiful Siuslaw River as it flows towards the Pacific.

On the last day of the Oregon Coast Range Getaway, make sure to block out some time for an adrenaline rush. Book an adventure for larger parties with Sand Dunes Frontier and tour the epic dunes in a Big Buggy driven by a skilled driver. Looking for something smaller and still exhilarating? Hop on a buggy with an experienced driver, and take a ride on the Sand Rails Tour, 12- to 14 miles of rolling dunes.

Sand Dunes Frontier dune buggy / Meg Trendler / EugeneCascadesCoast.org

The drive between Eugene and Florence may not be far, but these towns are jam packed with enough activity to explore the hidden gems of Oregon for an entire weekend. Make time this spring to explore the city lights and team spirit of Eugene and the Oregon Ducks, the refreshing scenery of the Pacific Ocean and the limitless excitement of activity in the oceanside town of Florence. See eugenecascadescoast.org for more information on planning your weekend getaway.

22 Reasons to Visit Ashland’s Oregon Shakespeare Festival Before the End of ‘22

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The Oregon Shakespeare Festival. 2021. It's A Christmas, Carol by Mark Bedard, Brent Hinkley and John Tufts. Photo: Jenny Graham. — The Oregon Shakespeare Festival. 2021. It’s A Christmas, Carol by Mark Bedard, Brent Hinkley and John Tufts. Photo: Jenny Graham.

Those fortunate enough to bear witness to Ashland, Oregon’s beauty every day know it’s impossible not to share it with others, especially during the fall and winter months. There’s no better way to cap off an afternoon of skiing at picturesque Mt. Ashland, an evening sampling delicious Rogue Valley wines or a night dining at nationally renowned restaurants than with a visit to the Oregon Shakespeare Festival, also known as OSF.

An artistic staple and theater destination in the Southern Oregon community for more than eighty years, OSF is a permanent fixture on the “must see” lists of visitors and residents alike. Here is where the world’s greatest contemporary artists showcase modern plays, right alongside Shakespearean and classical works of the theatrical canon. Like the generations of art lovers who have grown up with us over the decades, we never get tired of a beautiful evening of live performance.

This November, OSF is thrilled to welcome “It’s Christmas, Carol!” a hysterical reverent, musical adaptation of Charles Dickens’ masterful tale, “A Christmas Carol,” back to the OSF stage. This zany, song-skewered comedy was such a hit with 2021 audiences that the festival is bringing it back for a second spectacular holiday. Come see it for the first time—or, if you saw it in 2021, come see it again! The play runs November 23, 2022 through January 1, 2023 in the Angus Bowmer Theatre.

It’s no secret that there are hundreds of reasons to round out 2022 at OSF, but here are 22 (see what we did there?) to get started!

You can (literally!) give your loved ones the gift of uncontrollable laughter with a ticket to “It’s Christmas, Carol!”
Explore the history of the Angus Bowmer Theatre, named after the festival founder.
Bathe in the beauty of an OSF winter.
Enjoy delicious fare in the theatre’s lobbies.
Cold outside? The selection of local wine and coffee will warm you up!
OSF is appropriate fun for the whole family.
Dress how you feel best—whether that’s to impress, wrapped up in an old puffer, or in costume!
Discover what’s behind “It’s Christmas, Carol!” on a guided, walking tour.
Stop by OSF’s gift shop and secure a unique holiday present.
Warm up after a day of jam-packed winter adventures!
Behold the smiling faces of OSF’s friendly staff, all here to ensure you have the best time at the fest.
Accidentally bump into a starry actor or director at OSF’s world-renowned venue.
Directly support the writers, performers, and designers in the Ashland community.
Laugh along to new jokes and new cast members in “It’s Christmas, Carol!”
Walk, hike, or jog along Ashland Creek, right in OSF’s backyard!
OSF abides by ADA ticketing rules and mobility guidelines—the festival wants its art to be enjoyed by everyone!
Delve deeper into “It’s Christmas, Carol” at one of OSF’s free, post-show discussions.
Immerse your senses in The Complete Lavender Experience, just steps away from OSF.
Pamper yourself before the show with a service from OSF’s neighbors at Waterfront Spa.
Directly impact the growth of Southern Oregon’s labor economy.
Take a romantic winter stroll along OSF’s gorgeous grounds.
It’s never too early to introduce the little ones in your life to the power of live theater.

Eat, Drink, Explore, Stay Giveaway

Congratulations to the winner, Ashley D!!!

Follow the rules below to win a 3-night stay at Tetherow Resort, a private tour + tasting (and more!) from Crater Lake Spirits, bike or ski rentals from Skjersaas and Sagebrush Cycles, Backporch Coffee, tickets to the Tower Theatre and a beautiful gift basket which includes goodies from each location listed above created by Pelican Place. Prize Value is over $4000!

TO ENTER YOU MUST:⠀⁣

1. Like the IG post on @bendmagazine + tag your friends/fam you want to join you on this amazing trip in the comments on the post.

2. Follow @bendmagazine / @tetherowresort / @craterlakespirits / @sagebrushcycles / @skjersaas / @backporchcoffeeroasters / @towertheatrebend / @pelican_place

3. Enter your info in the form below.

✨BONUS: Save this post + share a story about the giveaway to IG and tag each of us + so we know you shared!

✨DEADLINE TO ENTER:⠀⁣ Wednesday, August 31, 2022, at 11:59pm PST⠀⁣

✨1 WINNER SELECTED: ⠀⁣ 1 winner will be chosen in total at random. Winner will be selected on Thursday, September 1, 2022, and be notified via Instagram Direct Message and/or email. ⁣This giveaway is not sponsored or endorsed by Instagram or Facebook.

Experience the Best of Southern Oregon at the Heart of the Rogue Festival

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The Heart of the Rogue Festival is an immersive two-day event celebrating all of the beauty that the Rogue Valley has to offer. This October 14 and 15 head to downtown Medford and experience the vibrant community of artists, musicians, creators and growers that together make the Rogue Valley such a special place. With a colorful confluence of food, wine, art, music and more, this free festival brings the best of the Rouge Valley right to you. Mark your calendars and take a sneak peek of what to expect when festival doors open this fall.

The festivities kick off at 4 p.m. Friday when the Blossom Lounge at Pear Blossom Park opens to the public. The Blossom Lounge will serve as the festival’s main gathering space, complete with lawn games, food and vendors. Browse a selection of locally crafted goods as you nibble on an artisan bite to eat from one of the various food trucks on site. The Rogue Valley is home to a robust farm-to-table movement, and many local chefs are using locally sourced meats, cheeses, produce and more in their dishes. The festival is a great place to sample some of these tasty foods.

The 21 and older crowd can pop across the street for something to drink from Wine Country Lane. Once you’ve made it through the ticketed entrance and received your tasting wristband, meander the street filled with local wineries, breweries and distilleries eager to give you a tasting. With a warm and dry climate, the Rogue Valley is an ideal climate for winemaking, and the number of vintners has grown steadily since the late 1960s. The Heart of the Rogue Festival is a great place to try the best craft sips that the area has to offer and learn more about the Rogue Valley’s extensive wine country.

The Blossom Lounge is also the best spot to enjoy live music performances at the festival’s main stage, with the Rogue Suspects kicking things off at 4 p.m. Composed of the region’s top vocal performers, actors, dancers and musicians, The Rogue Suspects put on a show that you won’t want to miss. The Danielle Kelly Project, a female-fronted retro dance party band that you can’t help but boogie to, will take the stage at 6:30 p.m. Night one wraps up at 8 p.m., giving you just enough time to get some shut eye before day two begins bright and early the next morning.

The Heart of the Rogue Festival has partnered up with the Rogue Marathon and Bikes & Brews to bring you some heart pumping fun to kick start day two. Those who are competing in the full marathon, a certified Boston marathon qualifier, will hit the ground running at 7 a.m. from Emigrant Lake in Ashland. The half marathoners will leave from Clearview Avenue in Talent and, and those competing in the 10k will begin at Bear Creek Park in Medford, both at 8 a.m. For active kiddos in the family, there will be a kids 1-mile race kicking off at 10:30 a.m.. All runners will cross the finish line at Pear Blossom Park so that the post race celebrations can begin straight away.

If running isn’t really your thing, there’s another way to work up a sweat Saturday morning with a biking event put on by Bikes & Brews and the Downtown Medford Association. With five different routes available there’s a ride perfect for every skill level, with routes ranging from the 4.2-mile beer cruiser to the 65.3-mile stout ride. Once you cross the finish line and whip that helmet off, pat the sweat from your forehead and get right into enjoying day two of the festival.

Post-race, vendors and food trucks will open up shop again, which means guests will be able to spend the entire afternoon checking out various craft goods, enjoying some lunch and playing corn hole on the lawn. The Brother’s Reed band, playing a contemporary blend of folk music, will kick off the live music of day two. Fogline, a country band considered to be one of the Rogue Valley’s best, will take the stage after, offering the perfect soundtrack for the remainder of the afternoon. The festival winds down at 4 but that doesn’t mean the party is over, head to the downtown brick and mortars which will be open and waiting for you. Keep the night going with drinks, dinner and some shopping as most establishments will be offering special promotions for the festival weekend.

The Heart of the Rogue Festival cannot wait to welcome festival goers with open arms this fall and show off all of the beauty and fun there is to be found in the Rogue Valley. Learn everything, from which vendors will be there to the best hotels to stay at to all of the official start times, at the Travel Medford website. Hope to see you all there!

For Pet’s Sake Giveaway

Tails are wagging and pets are bragging! Why you ask? Their owner’s have entered our For Pet’s Sake Giveaway for chance to

WIN $300 to Bend Pet Express!

TO ENTER YOU MUST:

1. Like the kickoff post on July 6th, and tell us your pet’s name in the comments of the post!

2. Follow @bendmagazine and @bendpetexpress on Instagram.

3. Fill out the form below so we know how to contact you if you win!

✨BONUS: Take a photo with your new sticker found at either BPE location or on your next delivery order!

✨DEADLINE TO ENTER: Wednesday, July 20, 2022, at 11:59pm PST⠀⁣

✨3 WINNERS SELECTED: All 3 winner will be chosen in total at random. Winner will be selected on Thursday, July 21 and be notified via Instagram Direct Message and/or the email address you share with us. ⁣This giveaway is not sponsored or endorsed by Instagram or Facebook.

The Haelen House in Bend Leads Trauma Survivors Back to Wholeness

For most of Cheryl Mill’s life, no one around her talked about adverse life experiences. “It used to be that you didn’t talk about trauma,” she said. “You learned to suck it up.” But in the past several decades, trauma and its impacts on mental and physical health have become much more understood. Research-based books such as The Body Keeps the Score by Bessel van der Kolk M.D. have shed light on how overwhelming experiences affect the development of brain, mind and body awareness, all of which can alter our capacity for love and work.

“We’ve learned that sucking it up doesn’t help,” said Mills, thirty-five-year resident of Bend and co-founder of Haelan House and the Healing Trauma Conference. “Burying trauma actually tends to make things worse. Trauma gets stuck in the body, and comes out as pain, disease, illness, relationship issues and addiction issues.”

The good news to come from this modern body of research is that, just as trauma occurs within the body, so may it be healed. There are many methods for healing trauma—this is the message Mills is determined to spread through Haelan House, a non-profit she founded with fellow Bend resident Susanne Frilot. “Haelan,” from Old English, means “to heal.” The organization presents the Healing Trauma Conference in Bend, in its fourth year this May.

Mills is certified in mindfulness and meditation training. She met a like-minded soul in Frilot, who runs a Meetup called the Bend Wellness Community. In 2018, the two were discussing the concept of ACES, or adverse childhood experiences, which can include sexual or emotional abuse or neglect, food or housing insecurity, witnessing violence and addiction, and more, all of which are now widely acknowledged to impact adult health and stability. “What are we going to do about this?” said Mills. Frilot replied, “Why don’t we do a conference?”

The first Healing Trauma conference was held in 2019 at Mountain View High School. “It was ambitious but successful,” said Mills, recalling twenty-five practitioners who spoke about modalities for healing trauma. The 2020 and 2021 conferences were held virtually, as will be this year’s event. The primary goal is education, beginning with the basics—what is trauma, and how does it affect ourselves and others in our lives? “There are still many misunderstandings about what constitutes trauma. You don’t have to be a war veteran to suffer the effects of trauma,” Mills explained. “Almost everyone suffers some kind of trauma at some point in their lives, and it’s also a very individual experience. The same events won’t affect two people the same way.”

Mills and Frilot wish to share the many healing resources available in our community. “Often when people first realize they have trauma, they think they need to see a counselor or a doctor,” Mills explained. While there is nothing wrong with those classic approaches, doctors and counselors are quite overwhelmed in the era of COVID-19, and trauma research has unveiled dozens of other successful treatment methods. “There are so many effective modalities to releasing and healing trauma,” said Mills, including acupuncture, dance, journaling, yoga, and EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing). “We want to introduce new healing modalities from the research, and help people understand that trauma can be healed, and that you can heal yourself.”

Epic Bend Giveaway 2022

3 WAYS TO WIN!

View all official rules here.

Bend Artist Katie Daisy is Wild and Full of Wonder

Katie Daisy started her life in a whimsical home surrounded by nature in the small town of Lindenwood, Illinois. Her mom carried art supplies in her purse and encouraged her daughter’s creativity, leaving Daisy with childhood memories like drawing on the back of restaurant placemats and exploring her mom’s wildflower gardens. “It was all sort of a fairy tale,” Daisy said. It wasn’t until high school that the creative teen took her first art class. For her final portfolio project, Daisy created black and white Tim Burton-esque greeting cards and had them printed at a local shop. Seeing her art on a finished product sparked something in Daisy, and she envisioned a life in which creating art could be a career.

Daisy set out to attend art school, applying to just one—the Minneapolis College of Art and Design. Her parents encouraged her to attend a state school with a lower price tag, so when Daisy was accepted into MCAD, she would attend completely on student loans. “We didn’t have any money growing up,” Daisy said. “But my folks have always really believed in me.” Daisy majored in illustration, taking classes in hand lettering, typography and eventually product design, a course that helped Daisy narrow in her vision for the future. She realized her art could be on not only cards and prints, but on anything, from aprons and mugs to shirts and décor.

After graduation, Daisy was encouraged to seek out a steady illustration position with an established company, which she almost did. Instead, in 2008, Daisy started an online shop on an up-and-coming platform for handmade and vintage goods called Etsy, which at the time had about 200,000 sellers. “I kind of got in there at the exact right time,” said Daisy, who owes much of her success to the website, which today has more than 5.2 million sellers and facilitates billions of dollars in sales annually. An early work of Daisy’s went viral on a couple mommy blogs, helping her shop, “thewheatfield” take off.

In the early days, Daisy did everything herself, including printing her work on an Epson printer at home and making frequent trips to the post office. Self-employed and able to travel, Daisy explored the United States, living in Asheville, North Carolina and Austin, Texas before landing in Portland. It was there she overheard people in a bar talking about Bend. Intrigued, Daisy did an online search for housing in Bend, typing in keywords like “clawfoot bathtub” and “exposed brick walls.” When an available listing in downtown Bend popped up, Daisy knew it would be her new home. “Bend has just been so welcoming,” Daisy said. “I’ve made the best group of friends ever, and I’ve never had such a close community of artists.”

Once settled in Bend, Daisy continued to grow her Etsy store, and soon began catching the attention of art directors from big brands like American Greetings and Hallmark. Today, many brands work with Daisy to license illustrations to use on particular products (such as greeting cards) for a set amount of time. These arrangements offer more exposure for Daisy’s art and a revenue stream outside Etsy, while allowing the artist to retain control of just how her illustrations are used.

With her Etsy store thriving, Daisy in 2016 published her first book, an illustrated field guide about nature called How to be a Wildflower. “It’s all about wanderlust and inspiration and finding yourself within the natural elements of the world,” said Daisy, who was working on the book while pregnant with her son Finn, now 7. The book became a New York Times bestseller. In 2021, Daisy released a companion book, How to be a Moonflower, exploring the mystery and magic of nighttime. Daisy said the book was fittingly created during a darker time in her life, which included a health scare and divorce. “It was the darkest year I’ve ever had, but I birthed a book out it, which is cool,” she said.

"How to be a Moonflower" Book — Photo by Right In Her Image Photography

In the fall, Daisy was busy with some new projects, including a “Greetings From” mural series with fellow artist Karen Eland in partnership with Visit Central Oregon. Nearly fourteen years after starting her online shop, Daisy is grateful for the success she’s seen and proud that she’s able to support herself and family through her artwork. One day, Daisy hopes to open a small brick-and-mortar art shop and studio for the public to visit. For now, she works out of her own whimsical cottage on the outskirts of Bend near Tumalo. The inside is filled with antiques and murals of animals and nature and outside is a lush flower garden, much like the one Daisy remembers from her childhood.

Katie Daisy’s books and artwork are available locally at ju-bee-lee, The Workhouse, Dudley’s and Roundabout Books, as well as online at thewheatfield.etsy.com. Learn more about Daisy at katiedaisy.com.

Steeped in Excellence: Q&A with Metolius Tea

Bend-based company Metolius Tea brewed into existence in 2010, when founder Amy Stahl began mixing potions based on her love of fine tea and plant medicine. Bend Magazine sat down with her to talk about challenge and growth, the search for amazing chai, and her desire to place equal value in both what her company does as well as how they do it.

Tell us about Metolius Tea’s beginnings.

My journey started in the study of plant medicine. At first, my teas were “book” designs: teas that, based on my research, might cure a headache or ease a stomach cramp. A teahouse downtown graciously let me build their apothecary menu, giving me the opportunity to interact with hundreds of customers as they were drinking my tea. I quickly realized my teas needed one more important quality to be effective: they should taste good! That’s when I flipped my priorities: I made teas to taste lovely. The medicinal and functional qualities of the plants still informed my designs, but they acted as the underlying architecture.

What makes Metolius Tea special?

There are companies who blend tea on cheap leaves with fake flavoring, and there are companies who source high end, pure teas, but few companies blend with beautiful, high-end leaves and avoid synthetic flavorings like we do. That’s what made us special when we started. Now I believe we are also special for creating a remarkably kind company culture and developing organized and responsive customer service. As I’ve grown as a company owner, I’ve placed equal value in what we do and how we do it.

Share a major turning point for your company.

I really found myself as a teamaker the day I designed our earl grey. At the time, I enjoyed drinking high quality, single estate black teas, and I enjoyed bergamot flavored earl grey, but I noticed the conspicuous absence of a well-crafted, quality earl grey. Since I couldn’t find it, I made it: hand-picked leaf and bud black tea, bergamot essential oil, Madagascar vanilla bean and bright, beautiful bachelor’s buttons—all farm direct from small production farmers. In 2017, we reached another pivotal milestone. I could not find a chai that I loved, even though cardamom and ginger are my favorite flavors. I spent one crazed-year designing our chai. I filled a pink notebook with hundreds of drafts, research on solubility, chemistry and aromatics, and drawings of processes. In my final months of refining the recipe, Palate Coffee became our first chai customer. Chai now represents over 65 percent of our business and we sell it to hundreds of coffee shops across the country.

How did you name your company?

My first company name was “Lovely Goat Plant Medicine.” When I approached Tetherow Resort about serving my tea in their restaurant, the owner, Chris van der Velde (who would one day introduce me to my husband and officiate our wedding) communicated to me in a series of Dutch swear words that I had better change the name if I wanted my tea at Tetherow. So, I came up with a new name. Water is essential to tea. I used to drive to Sisters once a week to bring tea to Sisters Coffee Company and Angeline’s Bakery. I would keep on driving to the Metolius River, where I’d go jogging along the river, making wishes, being with the grand old ponderosas, cataloging the medicinal plants along the river’s edge—rose, Oregon grape, elder. While I did just change the name so Chris would buy my tea, Metolius has come, like a river, to represent both where we came from and where we are going. While we have stayed “plant-forward,” true to our organic roots, we have grown into a company with viable goals to enrich our world with our work and through our products.

How much tea per year does Metolius currently sell?

We are about 90 percent wholesale facing with approximately 300 wholesale accounts across the country, and we do some direct retail sales through our website, MetoliusTea.com. It’s kind of crazy to think about. Ten years ago I was living in odd little backyard places around town—yurts and tree houses and such—and I had my mason jar collections of locally wildcrafted plants. Now, as I look out the window of my tea factory, I see my team unloading three pallets of organic Peruvian ginger that we will brew in our chai.

What have been your most significant challenges over the years?

It’s been full of challenges: losing confidence as I came to terms with my limitations, then gaining confidence as I came to terms with my strengths and how to leverage them. Waiting. I know we are making real progress year over year, but it isn’t flashy like a time lapse in a movie set to a single song. It is stable: uncomfortably, painstakingly real-time growth, accompanied by the requisite untamable queue of emails, meetings and details that feel miles away from my plant passion origins.

What do the next ten years hold?

This year we are launching a not-for-profit line of teas to be initially sold through our wholesale customers, with 100 percent of the profits going to schools and nonprofits in tea growing regions. I want to find more people who are doing environmental and social justice work in tea-growing regions. If we can partner with them and leverage what they are doing, that would be my dream come true.

FivePine Lodge Winter Wellness Giveaway

This contest has ended, but stay tuned for future giveaways by visiting our Giveaways Page.

One lucky winner will receive a two-night stay at FivePine Lodge & Spa in Sisters, Oregon, complete with a snowshoe adventure, massages, and more!

The winner will enjoy a midweek Winter Wellness Package that includes:

Two (2) Midweek Nights in a Serenity Cabin
One (1) couple’s massage or two (2) individual 60-minute Himalayan Salt Stone Massages at Shibui Spa
Two (2) custom FivePine yoga mats with carrying bag
One (1) Himalayan Heart Salt Stone
Complimentary 4-hour snowshoe rental (bring warm/waterproof boots)
Complimentary nightly wine & beer reception at the Lodge from 5-6pm
Complimentary daily delivery of our Deluxe Coffee and Tea Service including green juice
Daily membership to the Sisters Athletic Club

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Restrictions: The package must be reserved by phone at (541) 549-5900. Two-night stay valid Sunday – Thursdays. Cannot be combined with any other packages/specials. Not valid on any holidays.

The contest begins on January 1, 2022, at 12:00 AM and ends on January 16, 2022, at 11:59 PM PST. For the complete list of rules, visit our contest policy page.

New Homes on the way to Sunriver’s Caldera Springs Community

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Activity is abuzz in Sunriver, where the first significant housing development in nearly fifteen years is underway. Ground broke on a new neighborhood within the 1,000-acre Caldera Springs community in mid-November, with future homeowners already showing interest and a flurry of more than forty homesite sales out of the gate.

The new Mirror Rock neighborhood is part of the Caldera Springs Eastern Expansion and features unique homesites with water views, natural volcanic rock outcroppings and locations bordering 220 acres of permanently protected land called the Wildlife Forest Preserve. Mirror Rock is part of a 600-acre expansion of Caldera Springs, a thriving resort community adjacent to Sunriver Resort, under development by the owners and operators of the resort. “Caldera Springs is a family-centric community where owners value the strong connection to nature, the high quality of architecture and the abundance of amenities,” said Krista Miller, general manager of Caldera Springs. “The community builds upon the appeal of Sunriver, but does it in an intimate, upscale way.” The expansion will ultimately include 340 new homes, vacation rental properties and community amenities that will add to the experiential, family-centric resort destination. Homesites start in the mid-$300,000s and range from just under a half-acre to over one acre in size.

Close to it all, amenity rich

Sunriver is a stunning and carefully planned community with incredible proximity to outdoor recreation, something near and dear to Central Oregonians. The community as a whole has drawn repeat visitors for decades, some of whom choose to make their vacation destination a permanent home or more frequent travel destination by purchasing property there. While most Bend natives and visitors alike are familiar with Sunriver, Caldera Springs is still a somewhat new addition to the community—development began in 2005—and continues to fly under the radar as a place to visit, or consider for buying a primary or second home. Situated 20 miles from Mount Bachelor and 20 miles from downtown Bend, endless opportunities await.

This expansion of Caldera Springs now underway includes many planned amenities, boosting the appeal for potential new homeowners. “Having an amenity-rich community has always been a top priority for us,” Miller said. “We envisioned the amenities at Caldera Springs to be a complement to all of the great options available in Sunriver, while adding exclusive experiences for our owners and vacation rental guests.” Community additions include a new pool with water slide (this is in addition to the existing Quarry Pool), new fitness center and family game room. A park featuring pickleball courts, climbing and play structures inspired by nature and small and large dog parks will be added, along with miles of paved and soft trails that will connect with Sunriver’s existing 40+ miles of paved pathways. “Unique to Caldera Springs, and coveted by owners and guests, is the abundant access we provide to the outdoor playground around us,” Miller said. “The community is ideal for just about any outdoor activity, be it golf, fly fishing, biking, paddleboarding, tennis, pickleball, swimming, fitness, sledding, cross country skiing and more.” Homeowners and vacation rental guests are also given access to popular Sunriver Resort facilities including The Lodge, along with membership opportunities at Crosswater Golf Course and Sage Springs Club & Spa.

Another perk of ownership in Sunriver is the community’s vacation rental program, which allows owners to easily rent out properties at times when they’re not in use. “Many of our homeowners appreciate the opportunity they have to participate in our vacation rental program,” Miller said. “This gives them the opportunity for a separate revenue stream at times when they are not using their home. Our on-site property management team gives owners peace of mind that their home is well cared for and the exclusive access to Caldera Springs and Sunriver Resort amenities ensures their property is a top pick for vacationers.”

Nature at the forefront

It’s no secret that the great outdoors is what draws people to Central Oregon. If our outdoor spaces remain protected and well taken care of, nature will also be the constant that keeps us enamored with the region as our communities change and grow. The team behind the development at Caldera Springs understands this, and has incorporated environmental stewardship into community planning. The 220-acre Wildlife Forest Preserve offers protected wildlife habitat that will be held in perpetuity, benefiting the region’s flora and fauna, including elk, deer, birds and other native plants and wildlife. In addition to the preserve, the new Mirror Rock neighborhood also includes its own lake, park and 180 acres of common open space. Combined, these areas offer 400 acres of land that will remain undeveloped, allowing mature Ponderosa pines to grow uninhibited and encourage mountain wildlife to roam freely. Rock outcroppings left behind by once active volcanoes dot the land near new development, becoming a visual highlight of new homesites. Trails and streams weave around these rock formations, keeping the landscape looking natural and authentic. The connection between the development of Caldera Springs and the land has been thoughtfully considered, aiming to keep the area beautiful and wild for generations to come.

Home at last

Caldera Springs is of the purest and most beautiful new developments in Central Oregon, and the first area to break ground on new activity in nearly 15 years. Demand for these homesites is high, with buyers showing interest from around the Pacific Northwest. As part of the first limited offering of homesites in mid-November, forty-two parcels were sold for a combined $18 million. Those looking to solidify their family’s space in this incredible community would be wise to move quickly as the area undergoes this period of expansion. “We’ve been really pleased with the initial response to the new homesites in the Mirror Rock neighborhood,” said Michael Diven, managing broker at Sunriver Realty. “These lots each offer unique characteristics and natural beauty. Pair that with the many amenities of Caldera Springs, and buyers are seeing a neighborhood that is truly different from others in Central Oregon.” Caldera Springs is a one-of-a-kind community, part of one of Central Oregon’s top resorts. It’s a place for a legacy home, where generations can come to enjoy four seasons of adventure near Mount Bachelor’s eastern slope. See where life can take you while enjoying luxury resort amenities, family-friendly fun and incredible hospitality, within a sun-drenched alpine climate.

Learn more about the Caldera Springs Eastern Expansion and available properties at calderasprings.com. For sales information, contact Michael Diven at michael.diven@sunriver-realty.com.

At Home in Deschutes River Woods

Dog taking a walk in a field — Photo by Graham Lott

Patrick Trowbridge and his wife Karrie own twenty-four acres on a pumice butte with 360-degree views from Mount Bachelor to Mount Jefferson, Lava and Pilot buttes to the Ochoco Mountains, and Awbrey Butte to Smith Rock. It’s a unique property in Deschutes River Woods, an area not generally recognized for its views. Patrick said it was “the de facto neighborhood park” before they acquired the property in 2012.

A quarter-mile south of Bend’s city limits, Deschutes River Woods, or “DRW,” was developed in the early 1960s as an unincorporated part of Deschutes County. Its main entry points are from Brookswood Avenue in southwest Bend and the Baker Road exit off south Highway 97.

In the past, it was known as a place where Bend’s working class could buy larger parcels of almost an acre in an unmanicured environment and with no design requirements. People built homes pursuant to their own desires and tastes, leading to a diversity of home styles and types. In the early days, the east boundary along the railroad and Highway 97 attracted a rough crowd, and the community over the years earned a reputation for run-down properties.

As Central Oregon grew in recent decades, DRW gradually improved its status as a livable place for families close to Bend but far enough out to retain its original character with large lots, dense pine forests and privacy. Apartment complexes, condos and other high-density housing is almost nonexistent in this rural development. The 2020 census showed a population of 5,532 people.

The Trowbridge’s family story illustrates how far this neighborhood has come in just the past decade. The couple moved to Bend in 2000 from Valley Forge, Pennsylvania, and spent ten years in downtown Bend, where they could walk to most places. In 2010, they wanted more space. As a broker with Knightsbridge International Real Estate, Patrick saw opportunity in the oft-forgotten DRW neighborhood. The family bought a 5.6-acre property for $204,000 and renovated it while getting a feel for the area. (They sold the house three years later for $425,000, and it sold again this past December for $1.1 million.) “We met people out here and really liked it,” he said. “The neighbors are down to earth.”

Riverwoods Country Store — Photo by Graham Lott

“DRW used to have a bad rap, but I think it’s changed now,” said Leslie Graff, another resident who, along with her husband Dan, bought a lot with a manufactured home in 2000 and have been steadily improving the property. “We almost bought a teeny, tiny fixer-upper house off Franklin Avenue (in Bend’s core) with a postage stamp of a yard on a very busy street,” she recalled. “We’ve always been thankful we decided on DRW. We’ve seen a lot of change in the twenty-two years that we’ve lived here. We’re in a good pocket with the greatest neighbors. It feels like we’re living in the country, and yet we’re just a hop, skip and a jump away from the city.”

The area still has buildable lots, but the supply is dwindling, according to Trowbridge. Recent sales show a mix of new but primarily older homes where values are on pace with the rest of Central Oregon’s hot real estate market. A home built in 2004 on the Graffs’ quiet, dirt road sold in 2017 for $370,000 and is now listed for $749,000. Realtor.com shows the median price for a sold home was $525,000 in September, with thirty-one listed homes ranging in price from $329,900 to $2 million.

The western edge of DRW is bounded by the Deschutes River where homes with low-bank frontage are valued in the $1- to $2-million range and look across the river to Lava Island Falls and Meadow Camp. “People are starting to realize that parts of DRW offer gorgeous home sites,” Trowbridge said.

Google Maps reveals one of the more unusual aspects of the neighborhood—ancient lava flows that comprise an impenetrable southern border. Several main streets dead end at the lava flows that form part of Newberry Volcanic National Monument. Although there are no parks in DRW, residents can access trails that lead to Lava Butte within the national monument.

Several businesses operate out of DRW, including the Alker Family Farm, a small-scale organic vegetable farm, Bend Pine Nursery, High Desert Mulching, Motokidz Motorsports, a dog groomer and boarder, an upholstery shop and others, along with a private Christian school and two churches. Riverwoods Country Store near the Baker Road exit and C. E. Lovejoy’s Market off Brookswood are the nearest convenience and grocery stores.

Deschutes River Woods today is a community in transition, where you can find a jumble of RVs, jalopies and tractors in some yards, farm animals and gardens in others, gated driveways, quiet streets with little traffic, parents who walk kids home from their bus stops, and most residents loving the rural environment where they and their pets have room to roam.

2021 OLD MILL DISTRICT HOLIDAY GIVEAWAY

ENTER TO WIN $1,500 IN PRIZES FROM
THE OLD MILL DISTRICT!

Nowhere epitomizes Bend’s transformation from a sleepy lumber town to a world-class destination like the Old Mill District.

Once home to two of the largest ponderosa pine sawmill operations on the planet, the Old Mill District now showcases restaurants, shops, art galleries and boutique fitness studios nestled alongside the Deschutes River.

The winter months are truly magical in the Old Mill District. That’s why we have partnered with our friends at the Old Mill District to bring you an exclusive Holiday Giveaway. One winner will be randomly chosen.

Prizes include:

Saxon’s Fine Jewelers: Bujukan bracelet from Gabriel and Co.
Va Piano: 2019 Chelle Den Millie Vineyard Sauvignon Blanc and 2017 Scooteney Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon
Evoke Winery: 2017 Orgasmic Cabernet Sauvignon
Savory Spice: Bloody Mary and popcorn gift sets
Anthony’s gift cards
Tumalo Creek: Four full-day kayak/canoe/SUP rentals
Wild Child: Holiday gift package that includes books, baby blanket, and toys
Lush: Holiday gift box
Sisters Coffee: Customized Hydro Flasks and whole bean coffee
Old Mill District gift cards

The contest begins on November 1, 2021 at 12:00 a.m. and ends on November 21 at 11:59 p.m. For the complete list of rules, visit our contest policy page.

Snow-Free Trails Perfect for a Family Outing near Bend this Winter

The weather might be cooler, but some trails typically remain snow-free and just right for an easy hike. Unlike some other winter activities, a walk in the woods doesn’t require expensive equipment or expert skills, especially if you choose one of these trails the whole family can enjoy. Check the weather, bundle up, and head out for a morning or afternoon of early winter fun for all generations.

Shevlin Park Loop Trail

Start at: Shevlin Park parking

Marking its 100-year anniversary as a Bend park in 2021, Shevlin Park is a nearly 1,000-acre area offering a number of trails. Depending on recent snowfall, winter hikers may face only a little mud or packed snow. Choose an accessible stroll on the paved road or a number of single-track trails, including Shevlin Park Loop Trail, a 4.7-mile jaunt that’s perfect for taking at your own pace. In winter, bring shoes you don’t mind getting muddy. Expect forested high desert scenery, glimpses of Tumalo Creek, quaint foot bridges and frosted or snow-capped trees.

Deschutes River Trail Through Old Mill District

Start at: Riverbend Park or old mill district

The Deschutes River Trail covers a dozen miles through Bend. The paved stretch hugs the river through the Old Mill District and is a great way to get family members of all ability levels outside. With proximity to shops and restaurants, you can even promise hot chocolate. This trail provides a surprising amount of wildlife and nature viewing right in town. While many species of birds live and nest in the riparian zone, look carefully and you may even see beavers and river otters swimming, or bald eagles and ospreys soaring overhead. A pedestrian and bike-only bridge connected to the trail parallels SW Columbia Street and overlooks Bend Whitewater Park, where you’re likely to see brave souls surfing and kayaking even in winter.

Big Pine Loop

Start at: La Pine State Park Big pine trailhead

At 0.7 miles, the Big Pine Loop trail south of Bend near La Pine is a great hike for all skill levels that offers beautiful views of big pines, just as the name implies, plus sights of the Deschutes River. Layer up for a walk around the loop to breathe in the fresh scent of ponderosa pine and pause a moment at two special spots on the trail. First, McGregor Memorial Viewpoint where there is a gorgeous bend in the Deschutes River, and second, the affectionately named “Big Red,” a 500-year-old, 29-foot-diameter beauty that’s one of the world’s largest ponderosa pines. It’s a sight to behold.

Fall Hikes in the Rogue Siskiyou National Forest

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Fall hikes in the Rogue Siskiyou National Forest offer an extraordinary opportunity to explore a 1.8 million-acre expanse of some of the most unique and biodiverse land one can find in the nation. It is the perfect place to immerse yourself in the beauty of autumn while traversing the magnificent mountains, rivers and lakes that dot and wind through the landscape. The incredible diversity of flora, fauna and landscape didn’t just spring about for no reason. This land has an ancient secret that has helped it become the enchanted forest it is today.

Like much of Oregon and the Pacific Northwest, the Rogue Siskiyou National Forest has a notable geological past. Unlike the rest of Oregon, the rocks in this forest are particularly old, and were not formed exclusively by volcanic activity. 200 million-year-old rock that was formed by underwater volcanoes and the constant shifting of both tectonic plates and the underwater currents themselves support the habitat of countless sensitive plant species that have a hard time surviving elsewhere. This explains why when Dr. Robert Whittaker, a giant in the world of ecology, explored the region in 1950, he named it one of the most biodiverse places in the nation, only rivaled by the Great Smoky Mountains of the American South.

The Rogue Siskiyou National Forest got its name when the Rogue National Forest was combined with the Siskiyou National Forest in 2004. The word “siskiyou” comes from the Indigenous Cree and means “bob-tailed horse.” The word became associated with the forest in 1828 when French Canadian workers of the Hudson Bay Company began to call it that.

Fast forward to now, and the modern Rogue Siskiyou National Forest is ripe for adventure and exploration by everyone. There are seemingly endless options for hikers in the area, so here are a few great spots to get you started.

A local favorite hike is the Raine Falls Trail, located an hour west of Medford and through Grants Pass. The drive might be a bit long, but the hike is so worth it. The out-and-back trail hugs the banks of the Rogue River for all 3.7 miles, providing constant views of the raging waters below. At the end of the hike, you’ll come across Raine Falls, a wide and short waterfall at a bottleneck section of the river where huge amounts of water are pushed through a small section, creating monumental whitewater rapids. Sometimes, you’ll even be lucky enough to catch an expert rafter or kayaker brave the falls. This trail is overall moderate in difficulty, with a few sections of uneven terrain.

For a longer day hike with breathtaking views of expansive forests and not-so-distant mountain peaks, try out the Wagner Butte Trail. A 40-minute drive south of Medford, this 9.4 miles out and back trail is considered one of the more difficult climbs in the region but well worth the effort. Much of the hike takes place in a shaded forest, offering relief from the sun. In this section, hikers will get an up-close look at the incredible biodiversity that lies within the forest and might even catch a glimpse of wildflowers if they hike early enough in the season. After climbing 2,300 vertical feet, hikers will get amazing views on clear days, catching glimpses of Mt. Shasta to the south, coastal range peaks to the west and many more hills and buttes that can be tackled in other hikes.

For a family-friendly hike that feels more like frolicking through a magical forest, check out the aptly named Enchanted Forest Trail, which breaks off into the Felton Memorial Trail. Another hike that lies about forty minutes from Medford via highway, the Enchanted Forest Trail is a 4.4 mile out and back hike that features a lush forest of madrone, fir and pine trees, wildflowers in the spring and summer, an antique and abandoned Chevy truck, and even a chance to witness wildlife like deer and wild turkeys. The hike itself is made mostly out of switchbacks but offers amazing views of the Applegate Valley. About three-quarters of a mile in, hikers will come across a fork in the road that leads to the Felton Memorial. Instead of switchbacks, this trail will offer a much more gradual climb until hikers reach a clearing where a helicopter crashed in 1993.

Rogue River flowing through Siskiyou National Forest

For serious backpackers looking to take in as much of the Rogue River as possible, there is a trail at the north end of the Rogue Siskiyou National Forest perfect for river exploration. The Rogue River National Recreation trail is not for the faint of heart but can offer a true taste of remote adventure. The trailhead is a two-and-a-half-hour drive northwest of Medford, but don’t worry about driving it twice in one day. The 40-mile trail typically takes hikers 4-5 days to complete as they hike the length of the river between Big Bend and Grave Creek. The trail includes uneven terrain and is considered one of the most difficult hikes in the region. Due to moderate temperatures, fall is an ideal time to attempt the hike. While the trail comes with risks, it also comes with great rewards; majestic and steep canyon walls, cascading waterfalls and idyllic creek after creek are just a few of the sights to behold along the wild Rogue River. Some hikers opt to have support via boat and have supplies delivered to them that way, while others choose to pack everything on the trail.

While some trails are more well maintained than others, all trails can be kept clean by following the simple principle of “pack it in, pack it out.” Simply put, hikers are expected to leave no trace as they take with them everything that they brought with them, including trash that would otherwise litter the trail.

These hikes are just a fraction of the adventure waiting for visitors in the Rogue Siskiyou National Forest. From family-friendly trails to days of overnight backpacking, this enchanted forest, filled with lush trees, vibrant wildflowers and some extreme biodiversity, will keep hikers wanting to revisit again and again.

High Desert Museum Opens Unique ‘Kids Curate’ Art Exhibit

Photo courtesy of the high desert museum- 2019 field trip

Starting May 7, the High Desert Museum welcomes the eighth annual “Kids Curate,” a youth art program run by the museum displaying students’ artwork from a rotating list of local schools. The program invites students to learn about a new topic within science or history every year, and to create an art project based around what they learned. Curators at the museum work with these individual schools in both classroom lessons and field trips to help students learn about their subjects and create the exhibition.

This year, fifth graders from R.E Jewell Elementary learned about how plants and animals get energy from the sun. Each individual class was assigned one specific habitat, full of flora and fauna to study, and then students created drawings to illustrate the scientific processes they studied. These drawings will be on display in the museum after they are laser etched into plexiglass tiles and arranged into a large mosaic.

The program was conducted completely virtually this year until about mid-April, when the students resumed their in-person classes. The curator of education at the museum, Carolyn Nesbitt, expressed her happiness in how this year’s students adapted to the new online format.

“We are so proud of how the students embraced this program in an online format this year. We all have the ability to examine plants and animals in our own neighborhoods, and the kids explored and embraced not only the assigned habitats, but also what’s right out their own front doors,” Nesbitt said.

This one-of-a-kind display provides students unique learning opportunities, a chance to connect their school lessons with the environment around them and the opportunity to publicly and proudly display their work in a museum. Click here to take a look at last year’s exhibition, created by fourth and fifth graders at Roseland Elementary in La Pine. For ticket and admission info, click here.

Q&A: The Family and Story Behind Bend’s Colima Market

The Colima Market, located on Northeast Greenwood Avenue, is a traditional Mexican market run by the Chavez family that provides authentic Mexican and Central American goods to Bend. Many goods come directly from Mexico, and the Colima Market is one of the only places in Central Oregon where you can find them. The market includes a bakery where pan dulce (sweet Mexican bread) and hand-made tortillas are made fresh daily, along with a meat and dairy section that includes chorizo, queso fresco and other Mexican ingredients; the very same ingredients that are used in the owner’s brother’s food truck, El Taquero, among at other restaurants in Bend. The Colima Market was originally owned by a family from Colima, Mexico. They retired about eight years ago and sold the market to their friends, the Chávez family, who are originally from Guerrero, Mexico. The daughter in the Chávez family, Yamely Chávez Kennedy, is the current owner and manager of the Colima Market and oversees day to day operations.

How did your family go from living in Guerrero, Mexico to owning a small business in Bend, Oregon?

Poverty was the main reason my dad decided to come to America twenty-four years ago. My father had a very sad and difficult childhood where he suffered from homelessness and near-starvation. He came to America to provide for his children a better, safer future than what he had. We lived in California for eight years and then moved to Oregon after we came up to visit the state and immediately fell in love with it. My parents worked very hard and eventually got the opportunity to buy a small Mexican store in Madras, Oregon and that’s how we started. Then, the opportunity came up to expand into Bend when our friends put the Colima Market up for sale. We have owned and operated the market in the eight years since then.

How has your business been received by the community, and have there been any challenges along the way?

In general, we receive more positive feedback than negative. We are so grateful and fortunate to be a part of a community that, for the most part, supports our culture. Coming from Mexico to California to Oregon was definitely hard to adjust to at first; we were missing our culture and traditions. This is why we focus on bringing more of that into our stores so we can bring a part of Mexico to our customers and the entire community.

What plans do you have for the Colima Market in the future?

We’re concerned about competition from bigger stores, but we hope to still be in business ten years from now! We hope our customers keep supporting us even if big corporations come in. We are working very hard as a family to keep expanding and remodeling our little store, to add more departments and more authentic Mexican goods. We plan on expanding the bakery, meats and dairy section to provide a higher quantity of quality goods to our customers. We are dreaming big! We hope to one day become as big as Safeway or Fred Meyer, but Mexican style.

Visit their website here!

Es Toda la Familia

El Mercado Colima trae una porción de México al centro de Oregón

Entrevista por Noah Nelson

El Mercado Colima, ubicado en Northeast Greenwood Avenue, es un mercado tradicional mexicano dirigido por la familia Chávez que ofrece auténticos productos mexicanos y centroamericanos a Bend. Muchos productos provienen directamente de México, y el Mercado Colima es uno de los únicos lugares en el centro de Oregón donde puede encontrarlos. El mercado incluye una panadería donde el pan dulce y las tortillas hechas a mano se preparan diariamente, junto con una sección de carnes y lácteos que incluye chorizo, queso fresco y otros ingredientes mexicanos; los mismos ingredientes que se utilizan en el camión de comida del hermano del dueño, El Taquero, entre otros restaurantes en Bend. El Mercado Colima fue originalmente propiedad de una familia de Colima, México. Se retiraron hace unos ochos años y vendieron el mercado a sus amigos, la familia Chávez, quienes son originalmente de Guerrero, México. La hija de la familia Chávez, Yamely Chávez Kennedy, es la dueña y administradora del Mercado Colima y supervisa las operaciones del día a día.

¿Como logro venir de Guerrero, México a ser dueña de una pequeña empresa en Bend, Oregón?

La pobreza fue la razón principal por la que mi padre decidió venir a Estados Unidos hace veinticuatro años. Mi padre tuvo una infancia muy triste y difícil en la que sufrió de falta de vivienda y hambre. Vino a Estados Unidos para darles a sus hijos un futuro mejor y mas seguro que el que el tuvo. Vivimos en California durante ocho años y luego nos mudamos a Oregón después de que vinimos a visitar el estado e inmediatamente nos enamoramos de el. Mis padres trabajaron muy duro y finalmente tuvieron la oportunidad de comprar una pequeña tienda mexicana en Madras, Oregón y así fue como comenzamos. Luego, surgió la oportunidad de expandirse a Bend cuando nuestros amigos pusieron de venta el Mercado Colima. Hemos sido dueños del mercado y lo hemos operado en los ocho años transcurridos desde entonces.

¿Como ha sido recibida su empresa por la comunidad y ha habido desafíos en el camino?

En general, recibimos mas comentarios positivos que negativos. Estamos muy agradecidos y afortunados de ser parte de una comunidad que, en su mayor parte, apoya nuestra cultura. Definitivamente fue difícil adaptarse al principio de venir de México a California a Oregón; extrañábamos nuestra cultura y tradiciones. Es por eso que nos enfocamos en traer mas de eso a nuestras tiendas para poder ofrecer una parte de México a nuestros clientes y a toda la comunidad.

¿Que planes tiene para el Mercado Colima en el futuro?

Nos preocupa la competencia de las tiendas mas grandes, ¡pero esperamos seguir en el negocio dentro de diez años! Esperamos que nuestros clientes sigan apoyándonos incluso si entran grandes corporaciones. Estamos trabajando muy duro como familia para seguir expandiendo y remodelando nuestra pequeña tienda, para agregar mas departamentos y mas productos mexicanos auténticos. Planeamos expandir la sección de panadería, carnes y lácteos para brindar una mayor cantidad de productos de calidad a nuestros clientes. ¡Estamos soñando en grande! Esperamos algún día llegar a ser tan grandes como Safeway o Fred Meyer, pero al estilo mexicano.

As Use Increases, Follow These Tips for Respecting Our Central Oregon Public Lands

With social distancing guidelines in effect and a limited capacity for all social gatherings, Oregonians are opting to spend more time in nature. Central Oregonians are widely known as a nature loving bunch, but this sudden uptick of usage of our national and state parks and public lands has created some concerns about littering and land management for locals.

These concerns however are shared across the nation, and even the world. International news outlets like the BBC are reporting that littering and general waste management have both become growing issues in places that have seen increased traffic due to COVID-19. Plus, the U.S Forest Service has reported that they are seeing an increase in land abuse related to off-roading and the destruction of natural habitat in the Deschutes National Forest and other nearby areas.

To many Oregonians, news like this creates concern that our natural bounty of parks and forests are not being taken care of or respected. To keep educated and accountable while frequenting public lands, consider following the ideas behind Travel Oregon’s new Take Care Out There campaign.

The campaign runs on three main tenets: prepare, care, and connect.

To prepare, the campaign recommends a boy scout like attitude: plan ahead for varying scenarios that could include anything from extreme weather conditions and injury, to the park bathroom being not stocked or open, which is actually the case in many parks now. Don’t forget to tell someone at home where you are going, and try to keep some extra cash in your pocket to pay for park fees that help keep our land pristine.

To care for our parks, you should stay on marked trails, keep a distance from wildlife for your own safety and theirs, and please only take with you what you brought on the trip. This includes trash, and the campaign emphasizes this point: always take all of the trash that you create, and keep our natural land natural. Not only will this maintain the cleanliness of our parks, but it will also decrease the likelihood of human-caused forest fires.

Lastly, try to connect with yourself, the land, and the people who keep it clean. Follow the rules, but remember to enjoy yourself and to appreciate the incredible natural beauty that we all share. Be polite and greet fellow adventurers and the park staff, but remember to keep a mask handy for any interactions. Always remember to spread goodwill and support your local community. Tell people about the good time you had, and help others create relationships with nature and the rest of their community.

It’s on all of our shoulders to preserve our natural land, our community and our history. By following these guidelines, we can all work together and keep Oregon amazing. Click here to learn more about the Take Care Out There campaign and how you can help.

Editor’s Note: This story was originally published in September, 2020.

Ember’s Wildflower- The Only Bunny Rescue in Central Oregon

Lindsey Provost was first given Ember, her pet bunny, as an Easter gift six years ago. She quickly realized that bunnies take much more care and maintenance than most people expect. “Bunnies are considered high maintenance pets,” Provost said. “Most people don’t really realize that when they give them out as gifts, because they neglect to do the proper research prior to purchase.”

Bunnies can prove to be a challenge to take care of if pet owners don’t have the time and resources required to care for them. Because of this, the House Rabbit Society estimates that over 35,000 bunnies are given away and abandoned by their owners each year in the U.S alone, and even more suffer from neglect in households that don’t understand how to fully care for them.

That is where Ember’s Wildflower Animal Sanctuary and Bunny Rescue comes in. Provost, the founder and director of the sanctuary, started Ember’s in the beginning of 2019 to address the issue of abandoned bunnies, rabbits and other animals in Central Oregon. “Ember’s is the only sanctuary in Central Oregon that will accept bunnies. While we try to take in any animal in need, our focus is on abandoned bunnies, including those with special needs,” Provost said.

A bunny with special needs often requires special attention, catered to their individual condition. In general, a bunny with special needs can be one with an injury or amputation, as well as elderly bunnies requiring extra care and bunnies born with any kind of medical condition that would render them reliant on human care. “Bunnies with special needs are euthanized too often, and I believe everyone deserves a chance at life,” Provost said.

Since their doors opened, Ember’s has taken in 170 bunnies in Central Oregon. Most of their operations revolve around getting these bunnies ready for their forever-homes, and as a result Ember’s has spayed or neutered 126 bunnies. Out of those, they’ve managed to adopt out over 100 bunnies to caring, educated homes.

“Education is key. We really try to educate every person coming in wanting to adopt a bunny on how high-maintenance they are when cared for properly, and we also provided some adequate supplies for new owners,” Provost said.

Ember’s sanctuary is capable of holding thirty to forty bunnies at a single time, due to a new twenty-six pen bunny barn built earlier this year. They have been able to switch to a waitlist system instead of turning bunnies away due to full capacity.

On Easter weekend, a celebration will commemorate the completion of the barn. This COVID-19-friendly event will allow families to go on an Easter egg hunt featuring real Easter bunnies. Better yet, guests will be able to interact with some of the bunnies and even learn a thing or two about how to care for these animals, should they choose to adopt one.

For more information, visit the sanctuary’s website here: http://emberswildflower.org/

Cocktailing on Sisters Saloon’s Outdoor Patio

The Hotel Sisters was built in 1912 and is arguably the most iconic building on the town’s main drag—one of the original old West buildings that inspired an entire Western-themed town. It’s been home to the Sisters Saloon and Ranch Grill since 2016, properly restored to its vintage charm, and continues on as a favorite watering hole of locals and tourists alike.

Head to the patio on the west side of the building, a well-protected space with plenty of tables and heaters. Order an Elmer the Mule to drink—it’s the bar’s version of a Moscow Mule named for Elmer, the Rocky Mountain elk head, who, for years, has kept watch from the saloon’s wall. The local Cascade Street potato vodka gives good earthy character under the spice of the ginger beer and the sweet berry Humm Kombucha. Easy to suck down a few mules under the warm spring sun.

For food, the wonderfully crispy brussels sprouts are charred and tossed with a sharp, tangy balsamic reduction you’ll want to put on everything. Sirloin steak bites are marinated tender, grilled and served with a cool horseradish dip. And the roasted beet and goat cheese salad builds flavors and textures with rich red and golden beets, creamy goat cheese, crunchy slivered almonds and apples, and a light, sweet orange vinaigrette.

Elmer the Mule

1.5 oz. Cascade Street potato vodka
Splash of fruity Humm Kombucha
Ginger beer
Lime wedge

Fill a copper mug with ice. Add vodka and splash of kombucha. Fill the mug to the top with ginger beer. Stir and garnish with a lime wedge.

Bend artist Kristine Cooper takes the plunge into the creative life

Editors Note: This article was originally published February, 2021

It’s a brave new world for Bend artist Kristine Cooper, who quit jobs in retail management and the building industry to support herself as a full-time artist. “I realized this summer that I was no longer being fulfilled in my 9-to-5 job and decided to move toward creating something from my soul,” she said.

The young artist—just 26—wanted to be a full-time creative professional after graduating from Seattle Pacific University’s studio fine arts program in 2016, but she had little encouragement from those around her. “I tried working full time while pursuing my art on the side but ended up exhausted and unfulfilled,” she said.

“Since COVID slowed life down, I had time to be intentional and process what I was doing with my life,” Cooper said. She was making money selling her artwork on the side and decided that devoting her whole being to art would open new doors. Quitting her jobs and starting her own business was the scariest thing she’s ever done, but she said, “The universe takes care of you when you’re doing what you’re really meant to do.”

Cooper creates a visual diary of her life through abstract and playful canvases, murals and textiles in vibrant colors and bold shapes. Some are energetic with swirling patterns and dripping paint; others hint at representational subjects such as people and landscapes. Her medium is primarily acrylic paint but often incorporates mixed media such as pencils, charcoal and oil pastels. She builds texture with thick and thin layers of paint and adds specks of gold “to create visual interest across the canvas.”

“I create what’s been in my head for weeks or days, such as a shape that occurs while hiking,” she said. “I don’t try to evoke any particular feeling, but [my] art can bring out a sense of joy, playfulness or a light feeling.”

When working from her home studio, she sets up an easel, listens to music “to make my brain think in different ways,” and loses herself in the process, working in long segments. When she wants to draw inspiration from the desert and her environment, she does plein air painting.

Like many new transplants, Cooper moved to Bend for the outdoor lifestyle. “I can get on a trail in 20 minutes instead of being in Seattle traffic for hours,” she said, adding she’s found her artistic voice in Bend since arriving in 2017. Cooper regularly shows her work in cafés and retail spaces, such as Thump Coffee, Revolvr, Velvet, The Commons and Nancy P’s Café & Bakery. Her work has also been exhibited at Franklin Crossing, Cascade Sotheby’s, the Oxford Hotel and Sunriver Lodge.

These shows are sources of sales, as are her website and others such as Etsy—from which the president of DreamWorks once bought a large-scale abstract called “Second Chances.” “It was an eye opener to have a client like that buy a piece,” she said. “I’ve seen continued momentum—you never know who is going to buy or who you’ll meet.”

Other avenues she’s exploring are commissioned murals in homes and businesses. Anna Spengler of Bend chose Cooper to do a mural in her living room after seeing her website and the joyful mood of her art. “Her work really speaks to me, especially her magical mountain scenes,” Spengler said. “She uses vibrant, fun colors and has an eclectic and bold style. Her mural brings my living room to life, and the colors inspire creativity.”

Cooper has also begun attracting clients who want help with their home’s interior styles, such as how to blend vintage or antique furniture with modern elements. This includes repurposing people’s treasures in a creative way that brings them new life. “I want to help people make their space unique and bring art into a home for a cohesive design,” she said.

Since starting Cooper Art and Abode, she no longer holds herself back. “I can fully dedicate my time toward my work and create boldly,” Cooper said. “I’m trusting the process and the gifts I’m meant to share.”

To see Cooper’s artwork, visit Fix & Repeat, a restaurant in the Box Factory, in January. See more at cooperartandabode.com.

Three Oregon-inspired soups for Chilly Nights

Nothing goes better with brisk nights than a bowl of flavor-rich soup, freshly made in the comfort of your kitchen at home. Try incorporating a dash of Pacific Northwest flavor into these soups, whether it’s with a local craft brew to liven up beer cheese soup or fresh Oregon potatoes or onions in a savory veggie stew or French onion soup. Slurp a spoonful of Oregon and warm right up.

Oregon Beer Cheese

At first blush, mixing beer and cheese might sound a bit odd, but it’s truly a winning combination and classic comfort food when done right. While the roots of beer soup go back to medieval Europe, it’s the state of Wisconsin known for popularizing the cheesy variety, typically made with a classic medium or sharp cheddar cheese. And while Wisconsin may have the strongest cheese game, we’ll take full advantage of Central Oregon’s numerous breweries for options to round out the beer portion of this soup. Save the hoppy IPAs for drinking though, as beers with subtle flavors, like a wheat beer or a pilsner, are good options to complement the tangy cheese.

Want to try your hand at making your own? Here is a recipe to try.

Hearty Vegetable

Vegetable soups are a failsafe option for warming up our bellies on a cool winter night, and they are as simple to create as sautéing vegetables, adding spices and broth and cooking to perfection. Whip up a colorful soup by mixing carrots, bell peppers, diced tomatoes, green beans and celery. Make a more filling medley by incorporating potatoes. These root vegetables are grown plentifully in Oregon, with 45,000 acres of potatoes harvested in 2020 alone. Let the potatoes soften up with the soup’s flavors through a long simmer and then top each bowl with fresh kale or parsley for an added pop of greenery.

If you are craving veggies, check out this recipe.

French Onion

photo Love and Lemons, loveandlemons.com

Often a popular menu item at restaurants, preparing French onion soup at home is easier than it may seem. Spices, beef broth and caramelized onions, of course, mix together to create a salty, cozy soup, best served with (or inside) bread for soaking up the flavors. Here in Central Oregon, we’re practically neighbors with many of the country’s onion growers, who harvest the crop in early fall across eastern Oregon and southwest Idaho. Volcanic soils and dry climate lead to some of the best tasting onions out there, with desirable mild flavors and large sizes. Top off this fragrant soup with croutons and a generous sprinkle of cheese, and dive in.

This easy French onion soup recipe looks delicious!

How to Winter Stargaze in Central Oregon

Photo by Brandon Nixon

Only in the darkness can you see the light. Such is the thinking behind the International Dark Sky Places program, which educates communities about responsibly curbing light pollution to protect and preserve the night sky. The program was created by the International Dark Sky Association (IDA), which recently recognized its first two certified Dark Sky Places in Oregon. Luckily enough, both just happen to be right outside of Bend.

But whether certified or not, Central Oregon has ample opportunity for any Bendite to find their spot. So, bundle up, mark your calendars for the next meteor shower (hint: the Quadrantids peak in early January) and read on for four of our favorite spots to catch a glimpse of the stars this winter.

Oregon Observatory at night — Oregon Observatory, photo courtesy of Sunriver Nature Center and Conservancy

Guided Astronomy by the Experts

Designated as the state’s first International Dark Sky Place by IDA, the Oregon Observatory in Sunriver boasts the largest fleet of publicly accessible telescopes in the country. Visitors can attend one-hour viewing sessions throughout the week with staff astronomers who are ready to assist and educate. $20 per person; reservations required. For a full schedule and details, see snco.org/events.

Prineville Reservoir State Park at night stargazing — Prineville Reservoir State Park, photo by Dawn Davis

DIY Stargazing

Prineville Reservoir State Park was named Oregon’s second Dark Sky Place and the first Oregon state park to receive the title in Spring 2021. To earn the designation, park staff replaced harsh outdoor lighting with softer yellow and red lights to minimize light pollution around facilities. Those in the know can bring their own gear to day-use or overnight camping locations and simply point their eyes up to be amazed. Find information at stateparks.oregon.gov.

Worthy Hopservatory, photo by Richard Bacon

IPAs and the Milky Way

Aptly named the Hopservatory, the Worthy Garden Club Observatory aims to inspire visitors to take care of the planet by showcasing its beauty. Conveniently located inside the brewery, the Hopservatory allows astronomy buffs to grab dinner and beers beforehand and see the stars through a telecsope for a nightcap. A $5 donation is suggested to enter. Open Thursday, Friday and Saturday evenings from 7 to 9 p.m. on a first-come basis. No reservations are required (and no beer allowed near the telescopes). Learn more at worthygardenclub.com/hopservatory.

Stars while on the Move

For those who simply can’t sit still long enough to look at the stars, why not do it while moving? Some of the best winter stargazing happens away from it all in the wilderness. Grab the skinny skis and cross-country your way through the national forest at one of several sno-parks along the Cascade Lakes Scenic Highway. Mainstays such as Virginia Meissner Sno-Park can be busy during daylight hours but thin to a fraction of the crowd at night. As a bonus, between star-filled laps, you can warm yourself by the fire in one of the wood-stocked warming huts. Free. See meissnernordic.org.

Click here to read more adventure stories with us!

Sisters author Willa Goodfellow explores mental illness in ‘Prozac Monologues’

She was going to stab her doctor, but she wrote a book instead: that’s the hook for Prozac Monologues: A voice from the edge, a memoir released last fall from Sisters author Willa Goodfellow and She Writes Press.

Prozac Monologues is really two books. One is the raw stream-of-consciousness monologues Goodfellow wrote over the course of three weeks in Costa Rica in 2005 after she decided to quit taking Prozac. The second part, acting as a sort of epilogue after each monologue, provides the medical history and context for Goodfellow’s state, and offers resources for those who may be struggling with bipolar disorder. The result is something completely original.

According to the National Alliance of Mental Illness, 2.8 percent of the population is diagnosed with bipolar disorder; 83 percent of those cases are classified as severe. Bipolar disorder is often misdiagnosed as depression, and for years Goodfellow, an Episcopal priest, tried a slew of medications that offered some relief, but mostly dangerous side effects. “Bipolar disorder is not diagnosed and not treated appropriately for an average of 7.5 years,” according to a 2006 study cited in the book.

Goodfellow manages to strike the right balance in a tone that is serious and moving in nature but also comedic and witty, which makes the difficult moments of the book easier to swallow. One irony is that in the manic writing episodes there are snippets of great writing and clever insights. For example, “In short, it’s hard to know whether depression is a problem of distorted thinking or the consequence of clarity.” Or while recounting a hike in Costa Rica, “Forget your camera. You can’t capture an experience on film. While you are trying to preserve the moment, inevitably you fail to experience part of the moment.” And, “Depression is so depressing. And you can’t get help unless you talk about it. And if you talk about it, you get more depressed.” Each essay gains in clarity, direction and coherent thoughts as the Prozac works its way out of Goodfellow’s system.

Goodfellow was raised as a Roman Catholic but became an Episcopalian in college. She graduated from Reed College and has a master’s degree from the Yale Divinity School. She has a blog where she offers reflections on mental illness and critiques contemporary writing about mental health. Though she never had formal ambitions to write professionally, being a priest and writing sermons and her blog each week honed her writing skills, creating a form that feels conversational and friendly while offering important insights into mental health.

“When I first was writing this, all the memoirs of depression were so depressing,” she said. “Humor is a communication strategy. I can go as dark as I want. When I turn [my experience] into a joke, non-suicidal people don’t dial 911, and suicidal people hear me. They know that I see them and they see me.”

For some, the monologues may be difficult to parse. But read closely and see a thread that’s one of the most illuminating parts of the book. In the editing process, the bulk of the monologues were kept intact, to let the writing speak for itself. “I didn’t want to lose the hypomanic sense of it,” Goodfellow said. “That’s one of things that people with bipolar can do. We can find connections in things that don’t look connected.”

While her book tour has been moved online, Goodfellow continues to work on new writing projects. These days—when anxieties are high from COVID-19, climate change and political instability—Goodfellow said she is grateful to have meaningful work to do.

“In any circumstance, we need to find the thing that gives our life meaning. Putting together puzzles fills the time if it’s going to be short term. Over the long term, what is it that I can do that matters? So this is what I’m doing.”

Prozac Monologues can be purchased online at local bookstores and indiebound.org. Find more of Goodfellow’s writing at prozacmonologues.com.

A hot toddy with a twist from Bend’s Pine Tavern

The Pine Tavern is one of the oldest restaurants in Bend, and a favorite during the winter holidays. After a morning of shopping downtown, I always take my niece there for lunch—just like my mom took me, and her mom took her. The wood-paneled walls are decked in festive greenery and sparkly white lights, families dress up a little bit more than Bend casual, and in the dining room you can stare at the old Ponderosa pine trees growing up through the roof and classic Bend photos on the wall and remember those who came before you who stared at those trees and photos, too. It’s a special place.

I asked bar manager Lucas Neff what people like to order on cold winter days and his answer was simple—the Pine Tavern Hot Toddy. “When people come in during the winter, they want to warm up,” he said. So he created a twist on the whiskey toddy—using green chartreuse liquor to give it more of an herbaceous note than medicinal. Green chartreuse is made from hundreds of herbs, plants and flowers by French monks who have been making the liqueur since 1737. “The herbal flavor really works with the citrus and sweetness of both the honey and orgeat,” Neff said. Add spicy bourbon, hot water and a cinnamon stick, and you can bring a little of that Pine Tavern magic home. – Sara Freedman

Pine Tavern Hot Toddy

1.75 ounces of Easy Rider bourbon (Hood River Distillers)

1 teaspoon green chartreuse

.5 ounce lemon juice

1 Tablespoon honey

2 teaspoons orgeat

Add all ingredients to glass, add hot water and stir. Garnish with lemon wheel, cinnamon stick and star anise.

Shop Local This Holiday Season

Gift Guide for the Holidays

Local businesses and shops sell a variety of goods made by artisan makers from the region and beyond. When you’re holiday shopping this year, skip the big box stores and give the gift of Central Oregon. Whether you’re looking for local spirits, the latest gear for adventure-hounds or handmade sweet treats, these gifts will delight everyone on your list.

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Bend’s Richard James Yozamp Brings Street Art Home

Yozamp in front of his mural at Miyagi Ramen. Wardrobe courtesy of Revival Vintage Bend, pants belong to artist, necklace courtesy of Planet Homeslice.

Richard James Yozamp pours another layer of house paint over a dead tree limb embedded in a concrete bucket in his garage studio. When finished, the sculpture will be part of his collection of “Bucket Trees” that he will place around town for people to enjoy and take home for free. “Everyone understands twigs,” said the Bend native, who recently returned to Central Oregon after immersing himself in street art in Southern California and apprenticing with masters in silk-screen T-shirts and pop-art prints.

The 2007 Summit High School graduate headed to Montana State University planning to major in art, but disliked the art school and switched instead to a business and marketing degree. He didn’t give up his dream of becoming an artist, though. “I painted abstracts by pouring paint onto a canvas in the party room of my fraternity,” he recalled. “I had eight large paintings and recruited eight sorority sisters to use their hair dryers to finish them in time for the student art show. I priced them cheap. They sold out quickly.”

After college, he moved to Ocean Beach, California, in 2012, surfing every day and working at James Gang T-shirt shop learning silk screening, color theory, photoshop and design. While there, he heard that Shane Bowden, a neo expressionist pop artist, was looking for an assistant. The Australian’s bold, vibrant and often provocative prints reminiscent of Andy Warhol and Robert Rauschenberg had a following in the art world. At one point, Bowden owned galleries in the United States, Canada and Asia.

“I went to meet him at his La Jolla gallery, and he told me, ‘You’re starting Monday morning. You’d better be ready,’” Yozamp recalled.

“I get there, and he tells me to make a four-by-four-foot silk screen of a Chanel (perfume) bottle. That’s an industrial size. I worked for him for four years, pumping out art, as many as 136 silk-screen paintings in one day. Until then, I didn’t know you could make a living doing art.

“He mentored me, and after a year of hardcore boot camp, I was painting forty to fifty hours a week,” he said. “I started selling my own work in galleries as a ‘ghost painter’ under his name and brand. At 25, I was making really good money and managing his whole operation and opened up eight galleries for him.”

When Bowden went to Italy in 2017 and didn’t return, Yozamp locked up the galleries. “I looked for work for several months, sold my own work and did small gigs,” he said. “I was directionless, but with the foundation Shane gave me, I was ready to become my own artist.”

Getting Started

His dad, Jim Yozamp, found him a job in marketing and sales in Bend in 2018. The younger Yozamp gave corporate life his full attention until he realized it wasn’t for him. “I was ready to get back into the studio and get creative,” he said. “The art followed me to Bend, and I got an order from Krave and Kulture, a high-end fashion and curated pop-art business in Palm Springs, for sixty paintings under my own signature.”

In addition to the Bucket Tree sculptures of dried bushes and dead branches, his studio had several large canvases ready for painting, made of heavy material he buys at Joann fabric store. “I love going to Joann’s and using my 50 percent off coupons,” he said and laughed. Although he’s mostly done silk-screened paintings in the past, he’s more focused now on hand painting his subject matter, which often includes mountains or trails he hikes in Central Oregon.

Yozamp also brought home a love of contemporary street art and mural painting. “I ran around San Diego at 2 a.m., zip tying cardboard cutouts to different parts of buildings, fences and street signs—about 100 different pieces at a time and a new series every week or two,” he said. “The subject matter included babies doing adult things, like reading the LA Times, drinking Starbucks or texting and driving a child’s Mercedes SUV electric toy car.”

Since returning to Bend, he’s painted murals at Bo’s Falafel Bar and Miyagi Ramen, and is in talks for other commissioned, large-scale public murals around Bend in 2021. He’s also had shows at Outside In equipment store, Dump City Dumplings and Revolvr Menswear.

Yozamp in front of the Bo’s Falafel Bar mural he painted

At 31, Yozamp is a fresh face on the local art scene. Expect to see more of his work around town. Visit him by searching @yozamp on Instagram. Yozamp’s newest exhibit, including classic views of Central Oregon Cascade lakes and mountains in natural fibers, will hang at Found Natural Goods opening December 4 and running through the month.

Bend’s Ingredient Studio Will Cook a Delicious Meal (Or Teach You How) in Your Kitchen

Pasta alla chitarra

The best tasting meal you serve at home might be something you create personally in your own kitchen. Or it might be fixed by professionals who have worked at the Food Network or cooked alongside Jacques Pépin and Bobby Flay. With a call to Bend’s Ingredient Studio, either is possible.

Ingredient Studio is the culinary brainchild of Candy Argondizza and Marité Acosta, an accomplished pair of female chefs who moved to Bend from New York City in 2017, after years of visiting Central Oregon. Together the couple offers in (your) home cooking lessons, cooking parties and private chef services, guaranteeing delicious meals served at your own table whenever you book them, or gift their services to a friend or family member.

“When we moved here, we saw an opportunity to do what we love,” Argondizza said. “I’ve been cooking for years and teaching, and to combine the two into our own business was exciting.” Ingredient Studio’s services are tailored to each customer and can cover specific cuisine or skill building for chefs with varying abilities. “We really like to cater it to each person’s experiences or interests, and that I think makes it unique,” Acosta said. “The education goes beyond just the cooking. The idea really is to tailor it, and give them skills beyond the stove.”

Both Argondizza and Acosta have a lifelong passion for cooking, and their own paths converged more than twenty-three years ago in New York City, long before they’d ever visited Central Oregon. Both culinary professionals at the time, they were introduced by a mutual acquaintance—their gym trainer. After meeting, they continued to live the city life and build upon their impressive resumes in the culinary world.

Acosta spent her time working at the Food Network and Cooking Channel, where she focused on recipe testing and development, often helping with important behind-the-scenes decision making and information gathering. “On Iron Chef America I was stationed in a control room that looked down over the set and would call out anything that was going on using any number of the unique ingredients that the chefs were working with,” she said. “The producers then feed that information to the host, Alton Brown, who would immediately incorporate the ingredient and some details or history about it to the audience.”

Meanwhile, Argondizza was busy leading kitchens in highly regarded New York restaurants, working alongside some of the industry’s best chefs, including Bobby Flay, Jacques Pépin, Alice Waters, Dan Barber and David Chang. In 2000, she took a role teaching at the International Culinary Center, where she served as Vice President of Culinary & Pastry Arts for seventeen years. She was named Culinary Teacher of the Year by the prestigious International Association of Culinary Professionals and has mentored students and instructors alike.

“Our world was all culinary all day back in New York,” said Acosta, who explained that after years of coming from New York to Central Oregon to visit friends, the couple had fallen in love with the area, and by 2017 were ready for a cross-country move to make it their home. “We loved our lives in New York City, but we were ready for another chapter and a better work-life balance,” Argondizza said.

Candy teaches a lesson in gnocchi making

After moving, they quickly got to work launching Ingredient Studio, with plans to offer lessons, personal chef services and a hybrid option, where customers participate in a portion of the cooking and then let the chefs take over. The services are personalized, and after a lesson, Argondizza and Acosta make themselves available in the future to answer cooking questions. “We let them know they now have access to asking us any question any time, going forward,” Acosta said.

Business has been steady over the past three years, and although things slowed down with the pandemic, the duo hopes to keep busy through the holidays with private chef services and small lessons. They also have plans to again offer larger cooking parties in the future. Ingredient Studio also offers gift certificates, and Argondizza and Acosta said a lesson or series of lessons makes a great gift for the chef in someone’s life. “It’s an experience, but it’s also a life skill,” Acosta said. The lessons are appropriate for just about anyone, from parents and children to aspiring chefs, to those just looking to improve technique or perfect a certain type of cuisine. There’s really no downside to gifting someone the experience of becoming a better cook. Because, as Argondizza said, “it’s the gift that keeps on giving.”

Somewhere That’s Green in Bend

The owner of Bend’s whimsical new plant shop, Somewhere That’s Green, has had a passion for plants blossoming since he was a child growing up in Philomath, a small town near Corvallis. In elementary school, John Kish planted seeds and brought his own crosspollinated plants in for show and tell. In high school, he bonded with a plant science teacher and dove headfirst into a project restoring the region’s prairie ecosystem. And in college at Oregon State University, he worked on a project fighting the gall virus from harming grapevines while studying sustainable and ecological horticulture.

By the time he was 21, Kish’s love of plants was playing out in New York City, where he was busy keeping 5,000 holiday poinsettia plants thriving at Rockefeller Center. “I was the interior landscaper, there to install and maintain the plants,” Kish said. But it wasn’t plant life that brought Kish to the city—he was part of a demanding Broadway conservatory nurturing another passion, theater. When his 18-hour days with instructors and classmates were done, he would hurry over to Rockefeller Plaza to begin tending to the plants. Long days balancing horticulture and theater until 1 a.m. didn’t last, and soon Kish was working at bars and coffee shops, with horticulture as only a hobby.

After a few years in the city, Kish traveled to Ecuador with a group called Dramatic Adventure Theater. He would get to see the Amazon, while visiting an impoverished village, running a theater production during the visit and re-awakening his love of nature. “Seeing the Amazon was always a dream of mine,” Kish said.” After the trip, he was ready to return to Oregon.

Kish bounced between Bend and Portland over the next few years, getting involved in theater, including at Cascades Theatrical Company in Bend and by starting his own production company, Topsoil Theatrics. Meanwhile, a dream of someday opening his own plant business was quickly becoming more vivid. Things started modestly—he acquired plants and sold them at pop-up shops within other stores, starting at Revolvr during a First Friday in late 2018, and expanding with markets and coffee shops. By last summer he had moved into Bend’s DIYcave makerspace with the budding business, Somewhere That’s Green, a name from a song in Little Shop of Horrors. Kish’s Topsoil Theatrics had a production of the musical slated for May, but the pandemic shut things down two weeks into rehearsals.

With theater on hold, Kish focused on selling plants, and amid COVID-19 his customer base was quickly expanding. He launched a plant gifting program called “Purposeful Plants” allowing customers to gift plants for delivery to others in town, and planned a fun drag-queen-themed live class on repotting plants, acting as his alter-ego, Fertile Liza. This summer, with the plant business outgrowing DIYcave, Kish took an opportunity to move into a space on Powerhouse Drive in the Old Mill District. In a ten-day span, Kish along with Matt Marson (Kish’s fiancé and new co-owner), Kish’s father and others quickly revamped the space, building shelves for pottery and moving in more than 500 species of plants. By early July, they were open for business in the new location.

The new shop is cozy and imaginative, packed with plants large and small and a wall of pottery from local ceramicists, including Cook’s Pottery in La Pine. Tote bags bear Kish’s favorite plant, the giant rhubarb, which he also sports a tattoo of on his left forearm. The shop stocks four main plant varieties: topicals, arids including succulents and cactus, aquatics and air plants (no soil).

From left to right Matt, John and Dan of Somewhere thats Green share a joke in the shop. The shop has 4 employees making the comraderie strong and the laughs plenty.

When customers purchase a new plant from Somewhere That’s Green, they’re also buying insight from Kish, Marson and two other staff members, Daniel Young and Jonathan Stockman. Staff will help repot plants into ceramic containers, drill drainage holes and offer to help in the future if the plant ever struggles. “We want you to be successful,” Kish said. In addition to selling plants, Kish is a plant consultant of sorts, making in-home visits to assess lighting and space, and offering recommendations for which plants would thrive in Central Oregon homes.

As new customers trickle in daily, Kish is feeling grateful for the shop’s word-of-mouth success and the future. Ongoing workshops are planned (only some are taught in drag), as well as plant swaps and the possibility of other events aimed at bringing people together around their passion for plants. “Plants bring peace and growth,” said Kish, who is quick to tout the benefits of getting your hands dirty and tending to a plant, watching it grow. “There’s something really rewarding about it.”

Bend psychologists help us understand anxiety in honor of OCD week

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*Dr. Sara Vice, left, and Dr. Jason Richards of Bend Anxiety Clinic.*

Everyone experiences some everyday worries and fears, but when those thoughts overtake our minds or lead to a panic attack, it can be a sign of something bigger.

When it comes to treating those more impactful fears and anxieties, psychologists like Bend’s Dr. Jason Richards and Dr. Sara Vice are well equipped. Richards opened Bend Anxiety Clinic in 2017, where he specializes in treating a variety of anxiety issues, using evidence based practices such as cognitive behavioral and exposure therapy to help his clients better understand and face whatever causes them anxiety.

Richards said the anxiety people struggle with is a combination of their natural biological predisposition, their personal reactions to things, the circumstances they grew up around and the environment they live in.

“Some people are predisposed to have a harder time with anxiety but end up doing just fine by being taught to face their fears, and some people become sensitive to anxiety due to overwhelming circumstances, and need both support and the tools necessary to overcome their fear,” Richards said.

This October, the psychologists are hoping to raise awareness for the issues they treat, as part of the International OCD Awareness Week, taking place October 11 to 17. The week’s signature phrase is #FaceYourFear, and the efforts are part of a growing awareness for OCD and other anxiety-related conditions.

Many of the practice’s client anxieties are based around the discomfort generated by fear and the ambiguity and uncertainty inherent in life., Richards’ exposure-based treatment approach involves helping a person to realize that their fears aren’t worth the discomfort they are causing, by facing them. This approach can include Richards coming along with a person to a space or a situation that would normally cause them anxiety. By getting more comfortable with a situation that causes anxiety, a person’s brain is retrained to realize that the situation isn’t a dangerous one, after all. Continuing to avoid anxiety-inducing situations can have a negative impact on a person and causes the fear and anxiety to increase over time, he said.

At the Bend Anxiety Clinic, Richards and Vice treat issues including obsessive compulsive disorder, or OCD, as well as panic disorders, body dysmorphia, post-traumatic stress, hoarding and all other anxiety-related conditions.

Vice specializes in treating conditions in children under 14, including general anxiety, school-related issues, social anxiety, specific phobias or anxiety related to experiencing a traumatic event. Sometimes, this anxiety is first noticed in a school environment, if a student is overly anxious about taking a test or in social situations. “Usually a little anxiety is manageable and goes away, but in some cases the child is worrying more often than not,” Vice said. Another warning sign of anxiety might be a child who often has trouble sleeping.

Between sessions with Vice, a child’s parents or caregivers become a crucial part of the treatment. “I teach the kids a lot during the session, and then I’m wanting them to implement it during the week,” she said. “It’s important for parents to reinforce what is learned.

For anxiety disorders and for OCD specifically, the psychologists said symptoms are often noticed by friends or family members first, so knowing the signs are important. These can include compulsive behaviors, like overly excessive hand washing or participating in a variety of rituals to prevent something like germs or contamination.

If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of anxiety, visiting Bend Anxiety Clinic, or calling to have a conversation with a psychologist there is a great first step to improving symptoms, Richards said. He said in most cases, anxiety treatment is covered by insurance, and he said the clinic has a 90 percent success rate with clients.

For more information about Bend Anxiety Clinic, visit bendanxietyclinic.com or call 541-668-6015.

Oregon Wildfire Resources

The devastation Oregon is facing each year from wildfires around our state is unimaginable, scary and heartbreaking. It’s hard to just sit back and watch as communities and wild lands are destroyed. If you’re like us, you want to do something to help. Let’s continue to stick together and support one another through all these unpredictable challenges.

Thanks to our friend, Garrett Hampton, for starting this helpful compilation of information and sharing with us.

https://wildfire.oregon.gov/

Master Gardeners across the state were recognized in July for their volunteer efforts as part of the OSU Extension Master Gardener program’s annual awards. In Central Oregon, the “Master Gardener of the Year” award winner was Kathleen Geary of Bend.

When it comes to the awards, winners are recognized for their commitment, time and impact.

“They’re nominated by fellow Master Gardeners, and selected by their local chapter associations with input solicited with their local OSU Extension horticulturist and Master Gardener program coordinator,” said LeAnn Locher, OSU Master Gardener outreach program coordinator. “The awards for Master Gardener of the year recognizes an individual’s leadership, impact and support of the mission of the program: garden education,” Locher said. Statewide, the program had nearly 3,000 volunteers in Oregon last year, who together contributed more than 221,000 volunteer hours—valued at $5.6 million.

Geary said that she first earned her certification as a Master Gardener in 2015. “Since then, I actively participate in community-based projects that include recording for the KPOV radio segment, ‘Gardening: Get Good at It.’ that airs on the Tuesday morning program and The Point,” Geary said. Her favorite area of volunteer work is at plant clinics, where she helps people receive answers about their gardening questions.

Geary first started gardening at an early age when she used to tend to herbs, vegetables and flowers in her mother’s garden. “I grew to understand the growing cycle of plants, and was captivated by the importance of the bees and insects that pollinated the garden that produced my mother’s endless bounty,” Geary said. She became interested in gardening due to growing up in the era of the Silent Spring. Geary grew concerned about the environment, changing climates, food security and how to feed her family.

Geary is involved with the Central Oregon Master Gardener Association, where she acts as a volunteer, educating others about gardening. She also teaches gardening classes. Other OSU Master Gardener community programs she is involved in are Discovery Park Community Gardening and The Point. Geary said she’s been excited to see how gardening has played a role in helping the community with food security during the COVID-19 pandemic. “We are fortunate in Bend to have a community that cares for one another. Precarious times call for strength in numbers and gardeners have it all. We grow gardens of vegetables, fruits and flowers for ourselves, and we grow our gardens to share with others,” Geary said.

Outside of gardening, Geary enjoys hiking, kayaking, fly fishing and skiing. She also loves to entertain guests with cocktails and food and can be found in her library reading up on gardening. For more information on Central Oregon Master Gardeners, click here.

Catch the “Songs for a New World” musical in Bend

During a time when many theater productions have been stalled or cancelled, Bend’s Musical Impressions Studios has taken a unique approach that’s allowed the production of a musical with a local cast of performers. This will give the community a unique opportunity to enjoy not only one, but two performances.

Musical Impressions Studios is presenting a social distancing drive-in musical at 7:30 p.m. Friday, August 14. The musical, “Songs for a New World” will be performed live and on a stage in the parking lot at New Hope Church in Bend. This will be Bend’s first drive-in theater performance of its kind since the COVID-19 pandemic began impacting the area. Another showing will be followed on August 21 at the Les Schwab Amphitheater.

Co-director Craig Brauner notes the production will be the first theatrical performance on the stage at Les Schwab.

“We are ecstatic that our cast and team of local talent will have the opportunity to grace this landmark stage in our community with this special show,” Brauner said.

“Songs for a New World” is a musical written and composed by Jason Robert Brown, and there are no set characters, narratives or even an overall plot. SInce there is not a lot of dialogue in the musical, the songs and incorporated dances make up and tell the story.

The arts, as many theatre performers believe, have the powerful ability to connect and heal people. Brauner and co-director Angelina Anello-Dennee picked “Songs for a New World” because of its message of hope and its theme of connection in a time of disconnection.

“We recognize that our world and local community is in a time of unprecedented change and defining moment after defining moment. As creators and passionate community members, we believe a message of hope in the form of theatrical entertainment is worth gifting to our community,” Anello-Dennee and Brauner said.

When it comes to rehearsing before the big night, there have been many differences that have challenged the production of the musical. Actors and the creative team must wear masks, sanitize their hands before rehearsals and can only take off their masks if singing. A chair and microphone are given to each actor for only them to use, and the cast members keep six feet apart.

The biggest challenge for the team has come down to following social distancing guidelines. Brauner said theatre is intimate in that lovers typically physically embrace, and dance and other forms of contact take place.

“Whenever I find myself stuck, I refer to Jason Robert Brown’s advice to directors staging the show, saying it is ‘most powerful when the audience can feel and see those journeys take place,’” Brauner said. Both directors were shocked with how adding in the social distancing guidelines strengthened and deepened the story. Brauner credits the musical performers for bringing in that change.

Anello-Dennee and Brauner said that they are fortunate to have the opportunity to stage a production during COVID-19, while also getting the chance to show their appreciation through the musical for anyone that has supported them. The duo said they recognize that many artists and creators do not have this chance and are struggling with unemployment, not knowing if or when they will work again.

“With this in mind, the cast and creative team politely ask that those who love and support the arts continue doing so by supporting community artists, like us, and to consider a donation of any amount to the following artistic support funds: Oregon Cultural Trust, The Actors Fund and Americans for the Arts,” Brauner said.

Audience members planning to attend the drive-in show will be guided in their car to a parking spot when they arrive. They have the choice when the show starts on whether to roll down the windows or to listen to the show on the radio.The audience can bring lawn chairs but must follow social distancing guidelines.

For more information and to purchase tickets, click here.

4 Unique Staycation Rentals in Central Oregon

As the COVID-19 pandemic continues, many people are staying close to home. Some might be feeling restless and wanting a sense of change. One thing Central Oregon has is unique rental homes or resorts people can try out for a close-to-home staycation. If you’re dreaming of getting out of the house and trying something different, here are four unique nightly rentals worth checking out.

DOME HOUSE

A unique experience that people can delight in is the dome house in Bend right off of Century Drive. It provides guests two bedrooms, one bathroom and a sofa bed. The house is near the Deschutes River Trail and the Old Mill, so guests can either go on a hike, bike, shop, eat and more. Noted for being peaceful since it sits on a private lot surrounded by trees. Denise Gorman, one of the hosts, highlighted the windows of the dome. “The view takes on a spherical aspect. The fact that it looks like it’s about to roll off the cliff is pretty cool also,” Gorman said. One thing that is cool about the dome is that the old entrance is underneath the dome. Guests have access to wifi, television, a kitchen, a fireplace and patio seating. Find more information here.

THE CAMP

Right in the heart of Bend’s midtown is a place where people can rent out vintage trailers for the night. Stay in a vintage trailer that suits your taste while enjoying the magnificent sight of Mount Bachelor and the Three Sisters. Owner Lucas Nelson, started The Camp in Bend after noticing the small selection of experiential lodging here. “We believed the people traveling to Bend would embrace it. We were right, they love it,” Nelson said. Guests can rent out vintage trailers which each have their own theme. Some features are beds, kitchens, TV’s, bathrooms and more. Guests can also reserve RV Pads which is when people can bring their own RV. Guests also have access to tables, BBQ grills and a fire pit. If people do not want to stay in the park for the day or night, take part in the activities or night life that Bend provides. Nelson said that amid the COVID-19 pandemic, Americans are buying RVs in an effort to travel local and have their own lodging unit. “The Camp has been super busy since the pandemic, because it provides separate and safe spaces where people don’t have to share,” Nelson said. For more information go to thecampbend.com.

THE SILVER BETTY

Hop into a 2017 Airstream Sport travel trailer named “The Silver Betty” and let your sense of adventure kick in. The trailer is a perfect opportunity for guests to travel and experience the beauty and many wonders of Oregon. Maximum number of guests are four. Prices start at $150 a night and additional prices if renters want to add any services that are optional, like bikes, paddle boards or a BBQ with a cooler. The Silver Betty comes with a fully stocked kitchen, a bathroom, bedding and entertainment. Find more information at bendairstreamadventures.com.

CRESCENT LAKE YURTS

Located next to Crescent Lake, the campground provides a unique experience with camping in yurts. Yurts are equipped with a bunk bed, futon, table, chairs and a wood stove. Be sure when renting a yurt to bring your own bedding, lighting (no electricity, here!) and food for the evening. In addition to the beautiful Crescent Lake, the area is forested and offers views of the Cascade Mountain Range and chances to spot deer, birds and fish. Plan a trip and have fun fishing, hiking, boating, swimming or biking. For those that want to explore, take off on some of the hundreds of miles of national forest trails in the area. Find more information at recreation.gov.

4 Places to Drop a Line and Fish in Central Oregon

Central Oregon has many lakes, reservoirs and rivers for people to enjoy as temperatures begin to rise, and the summer heat sets in. These bodies of water offer many activities people can partake in, such as fishing. Fishing is a popular pastime in Central Oregon. Facing the difficult choice of where to drop a line this weekend? Here are four places for people to try out and fish near Bend.

Crane Prairie Reservoir

Noted as one of the top places in Central Oregon to fish by Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife, the drive to Crane Prairie Reservoir is just under an hour, southwest of Bend and past Sunriver. One highlight of the reservoir is that as people fish, the beautiful Cascade Mountains overlook the water. The many birds are also an attraction, as noted by Dave Merrick, the manager of Fly & Field Outfitters in Bend. “The views from the lake are some of the most spectacular in the area and sharing your fishing spot on Crane with numerous bald eagles, osprey and cormorants is a daily treat. They can put on a great show,” Merrick said. Many species of fish that people might get the chance to catch at the Crane Prairie Reservoir are redband rainbow trout, hatchery rainbow trout, brook trout, largemouth bass and kokanee. Some of the best months to go fishing are June, July and August.

Wickiup Reservoir

Another fishing spot that people can enjoy is Wickiup Reservoir in La Pine which is about 24 minutes south of Crane Prairie Reservoir, or also about an hour drive from Bend. The largest of the Cascade Lakes, this reservoir was created in 1949 by the Deschutes River dam project. Some species people can catch at Wickiup Reservoir are kokanee, coho salmon, whitefish, chub, brown trout, rainbow trout and brook trout. If you have access to a boat, use the boat ramp by the Gull Point Campground and hit the water for a great day.

Lake Billy Chinook

Hop in the car and make the hour-plus drive north of Bend to Lake Billy Chinook, out by the Central Oregon cities of Culver and Madras. Formed by the Round Butte Dam, the lake is at the confluence of the Crooked, Deschutes and Metolius rivers and is open year round, with the exception of the Metolius River arm, which is open March through October and also requires a tribal angling permit. People can catch rainbow trout, brown trout, kokanee, bull trout and smallmouth trout, and this lake is actually the only place in Oregon where people can keep one of their bull trouts. It does have to be twenty-four inches in length though. If the arm of the Metolius River is intriguing, this river is best accessed from the town of Camp Sherman. Merrick said that the Metolius River is one of the most challenging fisheries in the area, and that the quality of the fish is world class. “The Metolius is one of the country’s largest spring ‘creeks’ and it’s cold and amazingly clear water can be mesmerizing,” Merrick said.

Prineville Reservoir

Prineville Reservoir, the longest drive of the four with about an hour and a half trip, is open year round. While the reservoir is known for ice fishing from December to February, it’s also a great place for fishing in the warmer months. Some of the fish people can expect to catch are rainbow trout, smallmouth bass, largemouth bass, black crappie and brown bullhead. One of the best times to fish for bass and crappie are from May to October. Many other activities at the reservoir that people can be entertained by are waterskiing, wakeboarding, paddle boarding, kayaking and much more.

All four locations require people to have a fishing license, and you’ll need a fishing rod, tackle and lures. For more information on licenses, restrictions, when to fish and more, go to myodfw.com.

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In 2014, Melissa Gottlieb came to Bend from the east coast and found herself in a moving nightmare: the house she had rented was in foreclosure and four months in, she was forced to move her family yet again. After hearing similar horror stories from newcomers of rental waitlists and unexpected hassles, Gottlieb decided something had to change and founded Bend Relocation Services in 2017.

“When I moved here, I needed a best friend—somebody I could call,” she said. “For a city that has 100,000 people, there are so many choices for neighborhoods, schools and activities, which is fantastic for people who live here. For people who are coming here though, it’s incredibly overwhelming.”

Gottlieb began her business with a website; soon calls and referrals from local organizations started pouring in. Bend Relocation Services offers assistance with finding rental homes and corporate employee relocation as well as à la carte services tailored to a client’s needs. As “professional problems solvers,” Gottlieb said the company aims to help clients mitigate issues and navigate Central Oregon’s fast-paced market.

“Our objective is to find out ‘If you want to move here, what is getting in your way?’” she said. “If someone is coming from far away, they can only view what is available at that moment, and we are cheaper than a plane ticket.”

On the rental side, the company works with more than thirty regional property management companies and homeowners to narrow down rental listings and schedule video tours for home viewings. In addition to finding a house, customized services range from meeting moving vans and picking up pets to babyproofing houses and installing internet.

Having helped hundreds of families in the past three years, business continues to boom. In November, Bend Relocation Services partnered with the Bend Chamber of Commerce to launch a second site, movingtobend.com, that provides newcomers with detailed, up-to-date information about how to live, work, play and learn in Bend.

“We’ve seen fantastic public response to the site already,” said Garrett Jaenicke, Bend Chamber Director of Marketing and Member Services. “The old, physical relocation packets we used to hand out were really lacking in relevant content, so migration into the digital space was the right solution.”

For Gottlieb, the company’s success goes back to simply being there for people; she said she finds purpose helping others start a new life in the town she loves.

“I adore Bend, but I’m also very sympathetic to the struggles of getting here and it’s a privilege when clients let me into their lives,” she said. “It is important to me to give people the information they need so when they get here they can stop stressing and just start living.”

Bend Relocation Services | 541-668-5078 | bendrelocationservices.com

May the power of our voices together bring change

The recent incidents of violence, death, racial discrimination and social injustice we’ve witnessed in our communities remind us we have a long way to go in achieving equality for all.

We stand with our black neighbors and friends and those who work for equality and truth. All around us are people working tirelessly to illuminate and eradicate injustice. We see you, we hear you. Now more than ever we need to listen and support one another. As individuals and organizations, we need to examine our roles in creating inclusivity, equality and change.

We can do more. We recognize the true leaders in our communities, the true change makers, not those who capitalize on chaos to hurt the community and local businesses. We encourage community and unity in the fight to end injustice and brutality.

May we all come together for change and healing, a rising tide of strength against injustice.

Sunny Southern Oregon

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On a road trip weekend getaway to Medford, both the journey and the destination are the rewards.

Ready for a weekend getaway to a lush outdoor paradise full of adventure, with plenty of culinary, wine and cultural charms as well? Put Medford and the Rogue Valley at the top of your list. Plan your next summer escape to sunny Southern Oregon, where the all-day fun is only outpaced by the glorious scenery.

From Bend, Medford is a three hour and fifteen minute drive to the south and west. Drive south on Highway 97, taking in Lava Butte just a few miles south of Bend. This cinder cone is one of the first signs of the volcanism that will appear throughout the journey—there will be more! North of La Pine, note Paulina Peak rising to the east. The peak is the highest point in Newberry Crater, a collapsed volcano, and Oregon’s largest volcano by area. Save a trip to this crater for another time, as we have another even more impressive volcanic crater to visit on this journey, and continue south to the junction with Highway 138.

Traveling west on Highway 138, you’re surrounded by thick pine forest. The road steadily gains elevation as you approach the Cascade Range. Stop at the Mt. Theilsen viewpoint for incredible views of this stunning peak, which boasts a narrow pinnacle pointing towards the sky. Follow Highway 138 to Highway 230, which parallels the Rogue River, one of Oregon’s prettiest and most renowned rivers, which you’ll follow south all the way to Medford.

Halfway to Medford, turn off on Highway 62 to Oregon’s only National Park, Crater Lake. The 33-mile Rim Drive is not to be missed, circling this glimmering jewel of a turquoise blue lake. Here you’ll find your next lesson in volcanism. 7700 years ago, Mount Mazama exploded magnificently, in an eruption 42 times greater than that of Mount St. Helens in 1980. Rock and lava collapsed into the mountain’s center, creating a massive caldera in place of what had been a 12,000-foot peak. This caldera, or volcanic cauldron, filled with rain and snow over centuries to became Crater Lake. Have lunch at the historic Crater Lake Lodge, built in 1915, before continuing south on Highway 62.

The scenery just keeps on coming on this picturesque highway, which winds under a rich forest canopy. Stop in Union Creek to see the Rogue River Gorge and Natural Bridge, two scenic spots that are accessed by an easy walk on a good trail. Here the river courses through a narrow canyon, creating beautiful waterfalls and rapids. Also, nearby along this stretch of the river are Pearsony Falls, Mill Creek Falls and Barr Creek Falls. Back towards Bend is National Creek Falls, accessed by a half-mile hike through a lush forest—another worthy stop, perhaps on your return journey.

Before you leave Union Creek, visit Beckie’s Restaurant, tucked in a classic old log cabin and known for its pies. Next door is a little ice cream shop—if you aren’t full of pie, grab a cone and hit the road. This last stretch follows the Rogue River through the lower Rogue Valley, a lovely grassy plateau that supports agriculture and outdoor exploration.

You’ve arrived in Medford at last, and the fun is just beginning. This rich valley is home to dozens of farms and vineyards. Start with the Rogue Valley Farm Tour, a self-guided adventure to farms, restaurants and artisans around the entire valley. The purveyors on this route support sustainable practices and provide guests with amazing things to eat, drink and buy. You’ll have a tough time choosing your favorite destination on this route.

Along the way, you’ll also encounter many wineries and vineyards. RoxyAnn Winery, 2Hawks Vineyard and Winery and EdenVale Winery are just a few of Medford’s treasures, with tasting rooms open to the public in outstandingly scenic locales. Sip on a glass of sauvignon blanc or tempranillo with a view of rolling vineyards. Or make it a day and sign up for a wine tasting tour with your own designated driver.

Downtown Medford is a burgeoning urban center, with new restaurants, boutiques and shops opening all of the time. Make a stop at the Urban Cork to try a variety of local wines in a trendy modern space. Grab a farm to table meal at Common Block or Porter’s Depot. Breakfast at Over Easy is not to be missed—this popular downtown eatery does a most memorable brunch.

Ready for adventure? The Rogue River is legendary for water play. Take a jet boat tour, sign up for a whitewater rafting trip, try kayaking, stand up paddle boarding or just go for a swim. While you’re out exploring, catch a festival or some outdoor music. Or just take a Sunday drive and take in as much of this region as you can.

Have one more afternoon to fill with fun? Medford is home to many golf courses. Swing your clubs under incredible summer skies at Centennial Golf Club, Quail Point or Bear Creek courses. No matter your score, you’ll have fun in the sun. Then head back for Bend with the thrills and tastes of Southern Oregon lingering in your mind.

Please call or check online ahead of time for all intended destinations to learn the status of any COVID-19 limitations that might be in place at the time of your visit.

Bend Home + Design Digital Editions

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Through Our Eyes Photo Submissions

This project is now closed. Thank you to all who participated!

Gorgeous example by @misslisphoto on Instagram

A “community call” to submit your photos showing Central Oregon through your eyes. We are looking for images that represent a day in the life during this time of #stayhome. Let’s keep it positive!

It’s a spring like no other in Central Oregon, but we know our readers are getting creative and making the best of staying safe and close to home. That’s why we’re launching the “Through Our Eyes” photo campaign to gather snapshots of life in Central Oregon right now. Send us your photos of how you’re spending your day, learning new things, whether it’s baking bread for the first time, enjoying a neighborhood dance party (socially distant, of course), trying a new kid-friendly activity or finding some fresh air outdoors—we want to see what you see! Use this form to submit your photos and if we select yours for publication, you’ll receive a $25 gift certificate to the local business of your choice, as our way of saying thanks for helping us capture Central Oregon, through your eyes.

<span data-mce-type="bookmark" style="display: inline-block; width: 0px; overflow: hidden; line-height: 0;" class="mce_SELRES_start"></span><span data-mce-type="bookmark" style="display: inline-block; width: 0px; overflow: hidden; line-height: 0;" class="mce_SELRES_start"></span> <a href="https://oregonmedia.wufoo.com/forms/m1lu22m5076bvau/">Fill out my Wufoo form!</a>

Specialized electronics manufacturer grows rapidly in Bend

Apricity, an obscure word from the 1600s, means the warmth of the sun in winter. While the term never quite caught on, an electronics company in Bend with that name seems to be doing so.

Gabe Ayers had worked as an energy research engineer at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology Lincoln Laboratory for five years before he went out on his own, continuing to work on some of his pre-existing defense contracts. He founded Apricity in 2015 in Jackson Hole, Wyo., moved to Bend in 2017, and got a desk at BendTECH, the entrepreneurial coworking hub. “I saw there was a tech community—a landing pad,” he said.

The company develops embedded circuit boards, firmware, accompanying software, plastics and enclosures for electronics. Now with eighteen employees and a 4,000-square-foot space in NorthWest Crossing, the company is poised for more success.

Ayers anticipates the staff will grow to twenty-five employees by the end of the year. Even so, he stresses that the company doesn’t focus on growth in the way of a traditional startup.

“We have no external investment; we have no debt,” he said. “We’ll grow as we continue to increase our client base, but there’s no speculative growth.” That allows them to remain nimble and adjust the engineering team on projects without being top-heavy with project managers. The team is working on twenty to thirty projects at any given time and completes them in a fraction of the time as competitors, he said.

For example, creating an electronics product typically takes nine to twelve months, from inception to hitting the market. Apricity did one in ten weeks last summer, from the first phone call to finish — the plastics, circuit board design, firmware and cloud code, plus securing safety certification and Federal Communications Commission approval.

“We have strong business partnerships with people in the industry, and we haven’t been around that long, but we move fast, do good work, and everyone that works with us is happy and comes back,” he said.

Rogue Valley Wine Country Getaway

A Japanese-Napa Fusion

When I heard about the winemaker’s dinner at 5 Fusion & Sushi Bar, I was a little giddy. As a Sonoma County native, I was thrilled to spend the evening pairing a prix fixe dinner with wine from Sonoma’s neighboring wine region. Beringer Brothers, a well-known name across the Napa and Sonoma valleys, showcased some of their library and vintage wines strategically chosen by 5 Fusion’s artisan chef, Joe Kim, who achieved level one sommelier status last year.

Kim, a three-time James Beard Foundation award nominee, curated each course as 40 guests gathered together with winemaker, Mark Beringer. Don’t presume nepotism, just yet. Beringer’s family actually sold the winery to Treasury Wine Estates over 40 years ago, long before the young Beringer was in the wine game. After spending over 20 years building a resume in winemaking, he applied for a job with Beringer Brothers “as a joke.” Fast-forward three years, and he’s now the head winemaker for Beringer Brother’s–making him one of eight winemakers ever at the winery that his great-great-grandfather founded in Saint Helena 140 years ago.

I was pleased to start the evening with some bubbles of rosé, as I don’t see many sparkling rosé wines by the glass or by the bottle offered in Central Oregon. Chef Kim paired five Beringer wines, two of which were named number-one wine of the year by Wine Spectator, with a tapas course, three dinner plates, and dessert.

I typically don’t gravitate towards Chardonnay–in fact, I avoid the varietal–but the first two courses were paired each with the butter white wine. Let me just say, it’s humbling when I am pleasantly proven wrong. Both Chardonnay wines were almost devoid of the buttery and oaky qualities that are less than agreeable with my palate. Chef Kim paired the first Chardonnay with a Japanese striped bass Crudo served over the most savory and decadent lobster velouté I’ve ever experienced (a velouté is similar to a bechamel sauce).

We ate our way through seared scallops and a ramen fettuccine served with a slightly sweet and spicy braised duck ragu. The wagyu beef and dijon fingerling potatoes plate was undoubtedly the star course of the evening. We bid adieu to our feast over a cigar-smoked chocolate mousse and a dark chocolate semifreddo. I imagined that the smoked mousse would emulate the dessert-equivalent of a Mezcal tequila. Still, it was best enjoyed in small doses with bites of the basil-infused semifreddo as a reprieve from its smokiness.

Lillian Chu, owner of 5 Fusion, is looking forward to hosting more winemakers dinners early next year. She has been facilitating similar events for the past ten years, which raised over $400 thousand for organizations such as the KIDS Center and Ronald McDonald House of Bend. All of the Beringer wines that were served at this event are available for purchase at the Good Drop Wine Shoppe.

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Disclosure: This event is the first for-profit winemaker’s dinner hosted by 5 Fusion.

Building The Extra Green Mile

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Bend home builder leads the way in taking green practices, homeowners’ visions to heart.

When it comes to building a custom home, you want someone you can count on from start to finish. You need an expert guide who is going to stick with you.

That’s exactly how Dennis Szigeti, owner of Leader Builders, approaches his work in Central Oregon. Leader Builders is a boutique builder, specializing in high-end residential construction. At 65, Szigeti has been in the business for forty years—somewhat of a rarity in a line of work that includes long hours, daunting projects and big asks.

“As we say, we’re custom building your dreams,” Szigeti said.

After building in Hawaii for sixteen years, Szigeti moved back to Bend in 1995 and opened Leader Builders in 1997. The length of time Szigeti has spent in the industry is in line with his general approach to his work—going the extra mile.

Szigeti runs the business with his son, Ryder, who is project manager. The father-son team is supported by a couple of employees who, all together, build some of the most magnificent custom homes in Central Oregon.

But as in every aspect of Szigeti and his team’s work, they don’t stop there. They build these jaw-dropping homes using green building practices as a partner of Earth Advantage and the Energy Trust of Oregon. Leader Builders even earned a Green Home of the Year Award in 2018.

“A lot of it’s in practice,” Szigeti said. “We do a lot of recycling way above and beyond what would be the norm throughout the course of the build.”

And they’ve been known to use recycled materials where they will make a statement, such as building a ceiling out of reclaimed wood.

It’s the visionary aspect of the work that has drawn Szigeti in for so many decades. He loves getting to hear people’s ideas for different rooms and areas, and bringing together the various elements they’re looking for into one, cohesive home.

“I’m very passionate about the creative element and then building something people will love and enjoy for many, many years,” Szigeti said. “I look at it as the legacy I’m leaving behind.”

Making someone’s vision of a home a reality comes with plenty of challenges, which Szigeti thrives on. Even if it takes the Leader Builders team staining twenty samples to get the right look for a wood beam, they’re willing to do it—and have.

Whether it’s ensuring someone is on site for the build each day or doing walk-throughs with the homebuilder, Szigeti prides himself on being a builder who’s always willing to lend an ear.

“You’ve got to show up,” Szigeti said. It’s how he’s ended up crafting homes that are gorgeous to anyone yet personal to the homeowner. “We don’t pigeonhole ourselves into one category,” Szigeti said. “Northwest contemporary and mid-century modern are our two strongest styles, but we’ve done everything.”

Take for example, the home Szigeti recently built in Bend’s Tree Farm neighborhood. With a standing seam metal roof and Asian influenced architecture inside and out, the home perfectly suits its owners’ Japanese heritage.

The front gate to the residence stands tall with four wood pillars, clean lines and dark accents for a look that Szigeti calls “PNW meets pagoda,” which his team designed. In the living room, stained black panels encase the fireplace above the mantel, providing the perfectly contrasted backdrop for the homeowner’s white wedding kimono.

Adding a unique material to walls to create a standout scene in an unexpected place is a skill of Leader Builders. In a recent build at Tetherow, the team placed a steel panel in the living area above the entertainment center for a surprising texture that adds depth and texture to the space.

In every one of Leader Builders’ projects, it’s these custom details that make the home unique. From carefully chosen finishes and painstakingly placed lighting to upcycled materials and artfully laid tile—placed by Szigeti’s daughter—every detail is accounted for in Szigeti’s homes, and then some.

Inspired Design

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Nathan Good Architects tailor home design solutions to each client for stunning, award-winning results.

The view from the Deschutes River to the Live Edge residence in Central Oregon. Photo by Rick Keating.

Imagine offering an object, an abstract idea, or perhaps a photograph of a lone sand dune to an architect and saying, “This is the design inspiration for my home.” Now imagine your personal style being seamlessly integrated into a stunning home design that honors its environment and goes on to win accolades for its green sensibilities and architectural innovation. Let’s take it a step further: your new home produces more energy than it consumes, and supports your aspirations for health and wellness.

Oregon architect Nathan Good can imagine all of this, because that’s what his firm does. “We once had a client tell us her inspiration for her home was a synthesis between the hemline of a flamenco dancer’s skirt and the interior of a nautilus shell,” recalls Good. “We had another client who wanted us to design a home that could withstand sustained winds of 150 mph, a forest fire or marauding bands of thieves. She wanted it to be off the grid, energy-independent, with a safe room where she could live up to two weeks without needing anything from the outside.”

An aerial view of the Live Edge home reveals the river below. Photo by Rick Keating.

How does this happen? How do you bring a sand dune, a skirt hem or the desire to age-in-place in a future-proof home to fruition? “Well,” says Good, who was one of the first in the United States to become a LEED-accredited professional, “We tailor our architectural solutions to our client, rather than plugging them into a preset aesthetic. All of our projects express our passion for daylighting, views, exemplary indoor air quality, and environmental responsibility.”

Another hallmark is also clear after perusing their portfolio: their ability to incorporate opposing ideals into their work, resulting in a smaller space imparting a sense of spaciousness, or casual luxury with precise attention to detail. “We had a lovely couple who wanted to build a unique home along the Oregon Coast,” remembers Good. “They were committed to utilizing all of the wood from a eighty-year-old barn that had been on their family’s property for generations. Everything was carefully dismantled because it was important to them that we infuse elements of their family history in every aspect of the home. They wanted it designed and built to last for many generations as a legacy project.”

Clerestory ribbon windows and a live edge dining table bring natural light and materials into the great room of the Live Edge residence. Photo by Rick Keating.

Nathan Good and his group of three other architects and an interior designer are known for their highly collaborative methods, involving all project stakeholders in a thorough, thoughtful design process. Their initial site assessments include analyzing views, rainfall, prevailing winds, annual temperatures and the path of the sun across the site through the seasons. They welcome input from their project’s clients and other team members, including interior designers, contractors, suppliers and energy consultants, resulting in the creation of a distinguished custom home.

Although Nathan Good Architects is headquartered in Salem, they have recently opened an office in Bend. Their custom home designs can be found throughout the western United States, Mexico and Hawaii. Demand for their services has resulted in a wide range of unique custom homes that span the spectrum from a modest fishing cottage overlooking the Deschutes River in Maupin to a 36,000-square-foot estate south of Denver, Colorado. “We’ve been designing custom homes in the Bend area for over ten years,” says Good. “Like many others, we see Bend as a haven for those who love the outdoors and feel a deep connection to the environment.” It’s no surprise, then, that when asked about some of their favorite projects, their designs in the Bend area quickly top the list. Central Oregon has been an opportunity for Nathan Good Architects to showcase their wide range of abilities, from multi-million-dollar residences to more modest cabins and retreats.

The home designed by Nathan Good Architects in response to their clients photograph of a sand dune. Photo by Rick Keating.

One home that captures the look and feel of Bend’s natural and cultural spirit is the Live Edge residence near Tumalo. The modern blufftop beauty is a LEED Platinum-Certified residence and was named GreenBuilder Magazine’s “Luxury Green Home of the Year” for 2018. Overlooking the Deschutes River from its rocky perch surrounded by ancient juniper and other indigenous plants, Live Edge complements the high desert landscape as if it took root among the sage and rocky outcroppings. The owners requested that the natural setting be preserved as much as possible, resulting in the home being designed to flow around ancient junipers and unaltered rock formations.

Still scratching your head over how a sand dune inspires a home? A signature project designed by NGA is still garnering recognition years after its completion in 2005 for its groundbreaking biophilic design. One national publication hailed it as “ingenious” for its functionality and beauty with a curved vegetative roof that reflects the client’s photograph of a graceful line defining the top of a wind-blown sand dune.

From left to right: Architect Forrest Good, Interior Designer Emily Doerfler, Architect Nathan Good, Architect Lydia Peters, Architect John Carriere, Business Operations Manager Meghan Laro.

2Sisters Ranch Wagyu Giveaway

2Sisters Ranch Wagyu is giving away their 2SR Butcher Box worth $450!

The giveaway includes:

The 2SR Butcher Box contains approximately 10 lbs of 100% Wagyu, which will fit easily into a household freezer. This box contains 2 New York steaks, 2 London Broil, 1 Flank steak, 2 Cross Rib steaks, and 4 packages of Carne Asada.

2Sisters Ranch Wagyu is a family owned and operated ranch in Tumalo, Oregon that raises 100% Fullblood Wagyu.

Their cattle are pasture raised in the fresh air and sunshine of Central Oregon, and are grass fed from nutrient-rich local hay, which produces an unparalleled umami flavor in the beef. On their family owned and operated ranch, they value the methods of traditional farming that prioritize the health and wellness of their animals. They believe the best beef comes from animals that are well cared for, and they work hard to provide you the highest quality meat directly from their pastures to your plate.

‘和牛’ Wagyu: ‘Wa’ means Japanese and ‘gyu’ means cow

2Sisters Ranch’s passion is raising the highest quality Wagyu beef with 100% pure Japanese genetics. Their herd was founded directly from the prominent Tajima and Kedaka lines, known for producing the highest amounts of marbling, tenderness, and exquisite flavor. They allow their cattle to grow naturally in order to maximize the superior meat qualities intrinsic to the Wagyu breed.

Bred from pure Japanese genetics

What does it mean to say pure Japanese genetics? In the 1970’s the first importation of Wagyu bulls occurred and over the next 20 years there were only a few more importations, totaling less than 200 Wagyu. In 1997 Japan declared Wagyu a National Treasure and ever since then there has been an export ban on any live animals or genetics. Fullblood Wagyu that are DNA certified by the American Wagyu Association can prove 100% of their lineage traces to the original importations from Japan. Fullblood Wagyu have never had any US cattle lines bred into them…only pure Japanese genetics similar to the Kobe beef being raised in Japan today. Read more here.

Grass Fed

Grass fed beef has been found to have healthier ratios of omega-3 to omega-6 fatty acids than grain fed beef. It also often contains higher levels of anti-oxidants like vitamin A and E. Factory meat typically contains unhealthy fatty acids, includes hormones, antibiotics, and other biotoxins.

Healthy Fat

Highly marbled Wagyu beef have higher proportions of monounsaturated fatty acid (MUFA) due to higher concentrations of oleic acid. Wagyu beef has the lowest cholesterol of all meats, even lower than fish or chicken.

Shop 2Sisters Ranch Offerings

And many more!

The contest begins on February 3 at 12:00 a.m. and ends on February 16 at 12:00 p.m. For the complete list of rules, visit our contest policy page.

The Childcare Question

Bend Chamber taking the lead on an initiative aimed at tackling the region’s childcare shortage.

If you asked Bend residents about the city’s top problem, you’d probably hear things like traffic congestion, affordable housing and wages. But if you asked that same question to parents of young children, you’d probably hear about the lack of affordable, quality childcare in town. It’s not just a problem for parents.

The lack of childcare is pushing employees out of the workforce at an alarming rate as parents of young children, particularly mothers, opt to remain home rather than return to the workplace because of the childcare shortage. According to a survey conducted last year by the Bend Chamber of Commerce, it’s also creating problems for employees who remain at work but are less productive because they are distracted by childcare-related issues, The survey confirmed what the business community knew instinctively: that the lack of childcare is an issue of concern for employers as well as employees.

It’s not just a Bend problem. Cities around Central Oregon are strapped for childcare, said Bend Chamber CEO Katy Brooks. In places like Madras, there are sometimes only one or two providers to cover the entire community, Brooks said.

“We have a society where both parents are working, or you’re a single person working with kids. This is a nationwide issue. We have not built the infrastructure by which we have an affordable, high-quality way to take care of our children,” Brooks said.

Brooks said the issue hit the chamber’s radar in 2018 when it was developing a series of discussions and programs around its “year of the woman” theme. One thing that kept coming up was how a lack of childcare options, especially for mothers of infant children, was keeping them out of the workforce.

“Only one out of three kids under the age of five are in childcare. What we don’t know is how many of them are just folks who have decided to stay home, but we do know there are waitlists for infants, especially under one years old, of at least one year,” Brooks said.

This past fall, the chamber decided to get proactive about the childcare crisis. It hired a “Childcare Accelerator,” a new position in the organization to provide more options for parents in the short term while developing a new model for childcare in the region through a partnership with Oregon State University and Central Oregon Community College.

The position is funded in part by contributions from local businesses who have a vested interest in alleviating the childcare shortage. For now, the job will be housed at the Bend Chamber under the umbrella of its BendNext program, the chamber’s non-profit workforce development program. The goal, however, is to work with partners like OSU and COCC to create an independent umbrella organization dedicated to taking on the childcare issue. OSU Cascades has already set aside land for a pilot childcare program that, if successful, could be replicated across the region.

“Our challenge is going to be [getting] some early wins and starting to add some slots now while we work on some of these bigger pilot ideas” Brooks said.

What They’re Saying

Megan Norris, Childcare Accelerator

A former teacher and a mother of two, Norris will work with businesses and other community partners to entice some of the region’s existing providers to expand capacity by opening new childcare centers. She has extensive experience in the intersection of public policy and private enterprise and has developed solar projects, mixed-use neighborhoods and worked with the California Sierra Club. Solving the childcare problem will require her to draw upon all that experience, she said.

So far, she has been encouraged by the initial conversation with potential partners. “The community coming together around this has been amazing. I think everyone realizes the need and is just embracing it and wanting to help,” she said.

KPOV’s Jill Mahler

Practicing the art of community radio in Bend.

“One of the most beautiful things about art is sharing it with other people.” -Jill Mahler

Jill Mahler wasn’t looking for another career when she applied to be an office assistant at Bend’s KPOV. But, after ten years at the community radio station—including four years as 88.9 KPOV’s station manager—there’s no denying she found one.

When she walked through the door a decade ago, Mahler thought her previous experience with arts organizations, including Arts Central, Mirror Pond Gallery, and Art Station would make her a good fit for the part-time job. As an empty nester, she wasn’t looking for much more than a few volunteer hours to fill her time and a chance to meet some new people.

Despite her lack of experience in broadcasting, Mahler took immediately to her work at the station. She wrote numerous grants to help underwrite programs at the volunteer-operated and donation-supported radio station in downtown Bend. She designed and built a podcast network and created the station’s new website.

“It’s a weird hybrid of nonprofit and media outlet,” she says. As a result, her job includes technical, programming, community engagement, and fundraising elements. “I see myself as a creative person, but I am doing all this administrative stuff,” she said. “But then I realized, this stuff is creative.”

Despite her accomplishments, Mahler hardly fits the traditional, type-A executive director mold. She wanted to be a full-time artist when she was younger but said she didn’t have the courage to follow her dream. Still, you don’t have to do much digging to see there’s an artist just below the surface of her station manager facade. On any given day, she can be found wearing one of the many scarves she’s knitted. Some of the designs are repurposed from thrift shop sweaters, which she unravels and re-knits to create something new.

She’s been a professional jewelry maker and worked at art galleries.

“I was inspired and motivated by being around art,” she said, explaining her creative journey through colored pencil painting, pastels, and mixed media landscapes. These days she’s focused on fiber arts like tapestry weaving. Recently, she sold almost all her entries in the $20 art show at Bright Place gallery. It was enough to cover the cost of her loom. Just as importantly, the art is being enjoyed by others, she said.

“One of the most beautiful things about art is sharing it with other people,” Mahler explains. “Which is kind of what we do here.”

Although Mahler never wanted a traditional nine-to-five job, she said the work at KPOV feels different because of the end goal, which is inform and entertain listeners.

“Community radio isn’t something you go to school to study. Most of us just fell into it. “It’s created for the community, by the community,” she said. “If they have something to tell their community, we provide a platform for that.”

Bend Community Healing

Wellness center’s approach emphasizes access and affordability.

Standing in a relaxed, yet tall stance, eight people raise their arms to shoulder height, graceful and ethereal as long-legged, long-necked cranes. As if moving through honey, striving for quality of movement, they take unforced, diagonal steps, shifting their weight, back to front. In a ponderous, powerful, plié of sorts, they take on the wide stance of the bear, heavy, with hidden agility. Traversing the room like playful monkeys, they extend upturned palms from under their chins, as if offering fruit.

In this qigong class, a dozen students, ranging in age from 20s to 60s, follow the lead of instructor Mark Montgomery. He founded Bend Community Healing in 2014, which now operates out of a small office/healing center off Century Drive on Bend’s west side. He offers meditation classes and acupuncture, community-style, in which a group receives the treatment simultaneously, provided on a sliding scale. Each person pays what they can, $20 to $50, no questions asked, and a $15 intake fee at the first visit.

Montgomery, who has studied with master acupuncturists and qigong instructors throughout the U.S. and in China, has long supported the community acupuncture model, believing that it doesn’t have to be expensive. In a stressful, conflict-filled world, we need spaces where strangers can turn off their phones and rest side-by-side, healing together in comfy recliners in a large room, amid soft, therapeutic background music. Community itself is a potent healing force, he said, and the way to popularize acupuncture’s effectiveness—from calming the mind to helping treat injury and disease—is to make it readily available.

Healing, energy-enhancing, calming practices such as meditation and qigong are free and easy to learn, Montgomery said. Qigong (pronounced chee gung) combines the Chinese words qi (life force or vital energy) and gong (cultivation or skill). The gentle movements, breathing techniques, and mental concentration are aimed at circulating, strengthening and purifying the qi.

“What’s frustrating for me is that most of the people who come in have things going on that are the result of never having been taught to tune in to, and feel and tend to their own energy, and for me, living in the 21st century, it is a non-negotiable,” said Montgomery. “We have to learn to bring our awareness of ourselves in the world into alignment… There’s a way that we can actually tune in and feel not just structure, but energy, and the more we can hone awareness, that ability to attune, the more we can start to take care of ourselves in a much more profound way.”

Ryan Redmond said he joined the qigong class six months ago to build on his experience in a similar practice, tai chi. Qigong has taught him how to stay in tune with his mental and physical energy in a distracting world. The 41-year-old said he respects Montgomery’s commitment to his clients, the sliding scale and welcoming space, in which clients share not just “rainbows and unicorns” but also their struggles. “People in class are experiencing genuine community,” he said.

Sophie Bijjani and Florian Pappafava discovered Bend Community Healing while visiting from Quebec and considering moving to Bend. Bijjani, 25, said she appreciated the time at the beginning of the qigong class for people to tap into their feelings and to focus on an intention throughout.

“It quiets the mind and gives an opportunity to focus on your body, and not just on what you have to do, what’s next, what’s best for your career or your kids,” she said.

Pappafava, 32, said, the class creates an inviting space for exploring your own energy. “I get something through living the movement rather than just doing it mechanically; it was nourishing to think and just live the movement. You are present.”

Six Resolution Reads For 2020

These eagerly anticipated releases belong on your bookshelf in 2020.

1 American Dirt by Jeanine Cummins American Dirt is already being called the next great American novel. The novel follows a middle-class family from Acapulco, Mexico as they flee north to the United States, hoping to escape the wrath of a brutal drug cartel. I haven’t read any of Cummins’ earlier work, but with raving blurbs from authors like Kristin Hannah, Stephen King and Julia Alvarez, this novel is definitely on my to-read list.

2 Weather by Jenny Offil Jenny Offil’s novel Dept. of Speculation was noted as one of the best books of its year by the New York Times and has been passed around as a quiet favorite in the literary world. Her newest novel Weather follows a librarian who agrees to answer letters written to an old mentor who is too busy to answer her own fan mail.

3 The Glass Hotel by Emily St. John Mandel When people ask me what book they should read next, Emily St. John Mandel’s Station Eleven is my first recommendation. That means that The Glass Hotel has large shoes to fill. Still, I have high hopes for Mandel’s latest novel that involves Ponzi schemes and mysterious disappearances at sea. Like Station Eleven, I have a feeling that this most recent novel will be one of those hard to summarize, yet must-read books.

4 All Adults Here by Emma Straub In addition to owning and running Books Are Magic, a popular bookstore in Brooklyn, novelist Emma Straub manages to write contemporary novels to great acclaim. Her next work, All Adults Here, is a family-centered epic that is already garnering great reviews.

5 My Dark Vanessa by Kate Elizabeth Russell Fifteen-year-old Vanessa’s affair with her teacher is a source of strength and confidence, until a former student shares a secret. Vanessa is not the only one to gather her teacher’s affection. Now she must reconcile her memory with the knowledge that she has been manipulated. Russell’s debut novel examines the power of memory, identity, and our willful need for self-deception.

6 Dreyer’s English by Benjamin Dreyer OK, it’s more of manual than a novel and it was technically released in 2019, but… if you’ve argued over a semicolon, debated the validity of the Oxford comma, or taken issue with a split infinitive, this offering from Random House’s copy chief is a must-have. Dreyer puts style and personality back into the tired world of style guides, adding humor and anecdotes designed to both entertain and educate.

The Ballad of Bend’s Other Butte

A mid-winter meditation on Central Oregon’s second mountain.

By late morning the parking lot was still empty, which seems unfathomable now when you think of Dutchman Flat. It was early January 2005. That was the year I fell in love with Tumalo. That was the year I learned how a bad winter could still be great.

Alone, I set out on the two-mile skin to the top of the 7,779-foot volcano in a ritual that would not change over the next 15 years. Hard breathing would soften into a steady chuff set to a mohair metronome swaying over snow. The cold air hitting hot lungs gradually lost its bite. With each stride, the curtain of spruce pulled back to reveal the pink folds of Mount Bachelor to the southwest. In the backcountry, the winding up of gravity is just as pleasurable as the release.

A place of easy access and easy reward is bound to tease out our natures, too. We players want what we want and will tribe up to get it. Two legs, four legs, blue smoke, pedal strokes: we stride, ride, spin and slide up and around those flanks in a microcosm of everything that makes Bend great. The peak may sit in the shadow of one of the nation’s largest ski resorts but Tumalo is a destination in its own right. We’ve mostly figured out how to tolerate, maybe even how to share.

I got to the top that day just as I’d do hundreds of more times over the years. The windswept ridge of storm-punished pines feels impressive every time. The backside bowl howled steep and tempting but the snowpack that year would prove be the shallowest in sixty years. No matter. I stripped skins, locked heels and came down the thousand feet.

Frank Zappa once said you can’t be a real country without a beer and an airline. I don’t think you can be a real mountain town without a Tumalo. It’s the season’s great equalizer, where what goes in is what comes out, and the you that’s up there is always better than the you that began.

High Hopes

America’s leader in online cannabis ordering set to expand in Bend

Ross Lipson (left) with brother and co-founder Zach

When Ross Lipson went off to Michigan State University in 2005, on his first day in the dorm, he got inundated with take-out food menus. Knowing there was a better way to connect restaurants and customers, he dropped out of college in the first week of school to launch one of the first online restaurant-ordering sites in the U.S. capable of aggregating offerings from multiple eateries. He replicated that with GrubCanada, the country’s first such service, which became a household name and the hub for online ordering.

After selling it in 2011, Lipson, an avid snowboarder, moved to Bend in 2012. His timing was fortuitous. When Oregon voters legalized cannabis for recreational use in 2014, Lipson saw an opportunity. He founded Dutchie (pronounced doo-chey) an online marketplace where consumers can place pickup or delivery orders from local cannabis shops. With hundreds of participating dispensaries across the nation, Dutchie is dominating the space and expanding locally. We talked with Lipson recently about the endeavor and his plans for its growth.

Tell us a bit about launching Dutchie in Bend in mid-2017.

Shops were starting up, as we all remember, on every corner—lines out the door. Everyone was very excited. I was personally excited. I enjoy consuming, the culture, the people, I see the opportunity. I’m in Bend, in Oregon, one of the first markets to go legal for rec[reation], and so I have this early exposure to this emerging industry, cannabis. I’m in line that first day of legalization, and my light bulb is going off in my head, screaming at me, saying ‘You need to apply the online ordering concept, everything you know, to the cannabis space.’ I called my brother (Zach Lipson), who’s my co-founder and chief product officer here. He was living in Chicago, he’s a tech startup guy, and serendipitously, he was going through an acquisition at the same time. I called him with my idea and he said, “It’s a no-brainer, you have to do it, and I’m in.”

How much is the company growing?

We launched here in Bend in mid-2017 with just one dispensary and now, two-and-a-half years later, we’re in twenty-two states, we’re in more than 500 dispensaries, we have forty-five employees, growing quick. We just signed a lease for a 13,000-square-foot building with room for 130 employees. We’re moving in November 2020, so we’re really aggressively recruiting. We are recruiting software engineers, product specialists—cannabis connoisseurs, customer support, sales, account management. Those are the buckets for thirty job openings.

Tell us about your funding and sales.

We’ve raised $18 million in funding. The lead on our first round was Casa Verde Capital, which is [backed by] Snoop Dog, and Gron Ventures led our last round, our Series A in September. We’re the leader in the nation in online ordering for cannabis —transacted more sales in cannabis than anyone in the nation last year. We’re right now annualized at doing $185 million in GMV, gross merchandise value—transacted sales. (The amount of sales made by dispensaries using Dutchie online ordering.) We work with many multi-state operators like Mission and ZenLeaf and the largest dispensary in the world, NuWu, in Vegas, and the closest recreational dispensary to New York City, Theory Wellness, which averages a two-hour line all day in Great Barrington, Massachusetts, on the border of New York State. Order volume like you’ve never seen—over 1,000 transactions per day.

Who are your main competitors and how are you distinct?

Leafly and Weedmaps are our two main competitors, however, we’re very focused on online ordering. That’s all we do, whereas they do many things. They’re first and foremost product review, and a dispensary guide of listings in your area. They just recently launched online ordering.

What have been the biggest challenges so far?

I am so optimistic; I see the challenges as positive. In the cannabis space there are these rules and regulations that wear you down. Those are the reasons why the big players aren’t in—the barriers to entry—I love those problems. It all comes down to the mindset.

Bend’s Founder Left an Indelible Mark During His Stay

Take a look around the heart of Bend, and it’s hard to miss Alexander Drake’s handiwork. Drake arrived in Bend more than 100 years ago, but his fingerprints are all over this town, even if you don’t know where to look.

Drake laid out the town’s street grid, opened the first sawmill, developed the first canal system, and built the infrastructure to bring electricity to his town. And he did it all in just a little over a decade. About the time it would take today to get the permits for any single piece of the public works project.

Before Alexander and Florence Drake arrived, Bend was a rural outpost of just twenty-one souls at the turn of the nineteenth century. The Drakes had a vision of something grander.

“Alexander Drake came from money,” said Lisa Lee, historian with the Central Oregon Irrigation District (COID). “The elder Drake was involved in the railroad business and also served as a senator to the Minnesota senate.”

The Drake family fortunes took a hit in the latter part of the 1890s, in part thanks to two economic downturns and the railroad stock crash in 1894. The Drakes looked west to the frontier and saw opportunity. They left St. Paul, Minnesota for Portland, before finally settling in, what was then, Farewell Bend.

At the time of the Drakes’ arrival, Farewell Bend was barely a dot on the map. Engineer Levi Wiest helped Drake survey and map the irrigation canals for the federal government. In an interview with The Bend Bulletin on October 20, 1933, Wiest remembers a desolate place.

“There was only a little log schoolhouse in what is now Drake Park, a caved-in log cabin […] on the riverbank, and the Griggs deserted log cabin.”

Drake came to Bend to take advantage of the Carey Act of 1894. The Act gave investors a way to acquire public land if they could bring it under irrigation. With plenty of water on hand, Central Oregon was ripe for development.

In his book, Frontier Publisher, Jim Crowell writes, “Drake, even before leaving for the Far West, was familiar with the great economic potential of Central Oregon, especially its water resources, and soon after his arrival, he purchased land of his own.”

Entrepreneurial pioneers were already lining up to irrigate the desert land of Central Oregon. Charles Hutchinson formed the Oregon Irrigation Company in 1892. He had already filed a claim under the Carey Act but was looking to expand the footprint.

What happened next is murky, according to Lee. Hutchinson and Drake met at an irrigation conference in Spokane. Hutchinson was looking for capital to continue the expansion of his irrigation business.

“Hutchinson told Drake there were opportunities in Central Oregon and wanted Drake to join him as a business partner,” said Lee.

Only four months after arriving in Bend, Drake founded the Pilot Butte Development Company (PBDC). Days before the two “partners” were set to file the Carey Act paperwork, Drake cut Hutchinson out and filed the necessary documents as the sole owner of PBDC.

The Bend Company Mill built by Drake’s development company in 1903. The mill burnt in August 1915.

Drake received a state contract to sell the land and water rights and spent most of the next three years developing detailed survey maps for the future irrigation canals. But soon Drake was onto the next project. He sold his interests to Oregon Irrigation Company for $10,000 in 1904. (The equivalent of about $290,000 today.)

Building at the corner of Wall and Franklin streets, built by Drake

Drake’s vision for Bend did not end with plans to water the desert. Having helped spur an influx of settlers, Drake knew the growing town would need electricity, a commodity already enjoyed in large cities but scarcely found in rural areas. He founded the Deschutes, Water, Light and Power Company in 1909. He constructed a dam and powerhouse on the Deschutes at what is today Newport Avenue. While Drake sold his interest in the project before the lights came on in Bend, the work was a success. On November 2, 1910, the first electricity crackled through wires running from the powerhouse to business in downtown Bend, and 375 lights blinked on in the darkness.

A 1910 cover of Putnam’s Magazine features Drake’s log home and three “heritage trees” that are still growing in Drake Park.

As the father of Bend, Drake is credited with laying out one of the most picturesque townsites in Oregon, although that honor may go to his wife. In 1910, Drake hired a young civil engineer, Robert Gould, to start platting the townsite. Gould was assisted by Elmer Ward, who came to Bend the same year.

“Mrs. Drake loved every one of the cow trails on which these streets are located today,” said Ward in an interview with KBND’s Kessler Cannon in 1953. “She insisted that we locate the streets of Bend along those contours that formed the cow trails of those days. And we followed instructions. And that’s why we have the winding streets.”

The Drakes left Bend in 1911 for Pasadena, California—the same year that railroad tycoon JJ Hill hammered the last stake in the Oregon Trunk Railroad. The arrival of the rail line set off a second population boom and the construction of two massive sawmills that would transform Bend into a booming mill town for years to come. Drake wasn’t here to see the transformation, but he’d laid the groundwork for the town’s next phase of growth.

Florence Drake, whose ideas influenced Bend’s layout.

Drake died in his adopted hometown of Pasadena in 1934. The Bend Bulletin featured his obituary on the editorial page on October 12, 1934. The writer noted, “Had Mr. & Mrs. Drake chosen some other part of the west for their home, Bend might have remained Farewell Bend […] It was Mr. Drake who organized the Pilot Butte Development company, platted the Bend townsite and interested eastern capitalists in a community which, at the turn of the century, was merely a rangeland frontier.”

It seems fitting that the town’s crown jewel, the thirteen-acre Drake Park, bears his name. More evidence of fingerprints that time and memory may never erase.

Contemporary realist seeks to master the mundane

One of the first things Donald Yatomi does upon entering his home studio is to flip over a ten or fifteen-minute hourglass. It’s the amount of time he can reliably devote to painting, given his responsibilities as a father of four teenagers and his job as a full-time visual designer for Sony video games.

“We’re always happy to get one of his paintings because we know he is so busy,” said Tracy Knish, an art consultant with Peterson/Roth Gallery in Bend.

But Yatomi’s short stints in the studio have built a body of contemporary realism that depicts scenes not typically associated with fine art. Rather than mountains or meadows, Yatomi turns his eye and his brush to “the industrial mundane, the urbanized deserts and the metropolis serenity,” he said. “My challenge is to find the uncelebrated things in life – trailer parks, laundromats, the homeless. I’m not interested in capturing the romance of life.”

“I know I’m not a good painter, and I don’t want accolades as someone who handles the craft well,” he said.

Despite this self-effacement, Yatomi offers new insight on every day and often overlooked situations and objects. A typical Yatomi scene might center on idle passengers awaiting a flight, the lone patron sitting at a diner, salt and pepper shakers, or shimmering cocktails and beer cans. He turns everyday machines, such as cars, motorcycles and even washing machines, into statements of time and place.

Yatomi’s canvases have a rough-hewn quality of paint laid down helter-skelter. The result is a vibrancy of color and movement achieved with brushes, palette knives, spatulas, caulking guns and brayers. His handmade cabinet holds the implements as well as oil paint, which sometimes ends up on the carpet, evidence of a painter in a hurry. The studio also includes a mirror where he can view a piece in reverse. “When you flip over a painting, you can see composition mistakes,” he said.

He draws inspiration from American artist Chuck Close whose large-scale paintings of faces appear from a distance to be photo realism but upon closer inspection, “expose blemishes, stubbles, hair and pimples,” Yatomi said. “These are things we don’t like to look at when we get close to a person’s face. That’s what I like to paint, things that aren’t good to look at, the unromantic scenes of life.”

Yatomi calls himself a Realist after an art movement that took off in the mid-19th century. And while his subjects are real enough, his works have the soul of an Impressionist. Yatomi said he is drawn the Realists’ approach that avoided romanticizing subjects. “Before then, classical artists painted bourgeoise and the elite,” he explained. “Realists began painting the poor, farmers, people on long train rides, slaves and the unromantic. I want to capture places people don’t want to look at. My realism celebrates things we take for granted. My challenge is to look at subjects that aren’t on gallery walls and put my own twist on them.”

The Japanese-born artist graduated from the University of Hawaii in Honolulu with a BFA in painting, and then attended the prestigious Art Center of Design in Pasadena, completing a BFA in illustration with distinction in 1996. After college, he lived in Los Angeles and entered the entertainment design field, working in video and film. He also painted and wondered how he could feel so lonely. His canvases then and today evoke these mundane and lonely urban landscapes.

“I want to capture places people don’t want to see. My realism celebrates things we take for granted.”

While living in Southern California, he met his wife, Leslie, a Corvallis native. They lived in LA for a while and then spent several years in Salt Lake City. Sony Interactive Entertainment eventually moved the couple to Bend in 2006. An artist herself, Leslie wanders into the studio during our interview and the pair begins an easy banter about the urinal painting he’s working on.

Leslie: “It’s too personal.”

Donald: “That’s it! That’s the point.”

Donald: “One of our favorite things to do on a road trip is stop by a dive bar. I really want to be the guy who paints urinals.”

Leslie: “It borders on the line between humor and disgust.”

Donald: “A transgender man in Utah bought one of the urinal paintings. Until he transitioned, urinals were inaccessible. He bought the painting because that’s the space he always wanted to be at.”

The urinals were part of works he recently shipped to an art gallery in Utah. He says the gallery was initially surprised but when his show opened, all the urinal paintings sold. Despite his success, Yatomi says he’s indifferent about whether a painting sells, which gives him freedom to follow his own impulses.

Donald Yatomi’s work will be on display at Bend Magazine’s offices during February, beginning with a kick-off event on Friday, Feb. 7 in conjunction with the monthly downtown Art Walk. To see more of his work, visit Peterson/Roth Gallery or go to his website, donaldyatomi.com. Better yet, follow the prolific Yatomi on Instagram @donald_yatomi_fineart

2019 Old Mill District Holiday Giveaway

Nowhere epitomizes Bend’s transformation from a sleepy lumber town to a world-class destination like the Old Mill District.

Once home to two of the largest ponderosa pine sawmill operations on the planet, the Old Mill District now showcases more than 55 restaurants, shops, art galleries and boutique fitness studios nestled alongside the Deschutes River.

The winter months are truly magical in the Old Mill District with SantaLand, roving carolers, Tumalo Creek’s Holiday Paddle Parade, gorgeous holiday lights and more.

That’s why we have partnered with our friends at the Old Mill District to bring you an exclusive Holiday Giveaway. One winner will be randomly chosen.

THE OLD MILL DISTRICT HOLIDAY GIVEAWAY INCLUDES:

Old Mill District – Gift Card $250

Hilton Garden Inn – One-night lodging value $200, subject to availability not valid July 1 – August 31 and expire December 30, 2020

Hampton Inn & Suites – One-night lodging value $200, subject to availability not valid July 1 – August 31 and expire December 30, 2020

desperado – $50 Gift Card

Radiant Day Spa – Swedish massage. $80 value

Bath & Body Works – Into the Night Candle and Body Care Bundle, valued at $65

Saxon’s Fine Jewelers – $100 Gift Certificate towards merchandise

Avalon Salon & Spa – $100 Gift Certificate

Flatbread Neapolitan Pizzeria – $50 Gift Card

CycleBar– 1 month of unlimited rides valued at $139

Pastini – $100 Gift Certificate

Tumalo Creek Kayak & Canoe – 2 full rental days. Rentals can be applied to your choice of a tube, kayak, paddleboard, canoe, or tandem kayak. Value up to $240

Naked Winery – 2 complimentary wine tastings and a $50 gift certificate

Anthony’s at the Old Mill District – Dinner entrees for two, up to $70

Free Spirit Yoga + Fitness + Play – 1 free adult class and 1 free kids’ open play session. Value $30

Lubbesmeyer Studio & Gallery – Signature Art Tile of your choice $49

Nashelle – Gift Card $75

Sweet Tooth Candy Shoppe– $15 Gift Card

Savory Spice – What’s Shaking spice set, $35

Greg’s Grill – $100 gift certificate

REI – Two ski/snowboard tune and premium hot wax upgrade, $120

Total value of over $2,000

The contest begins on November 22 at 5:00 p.m. and ends on December 22 at 11:59 p.m. For the complete list of rules, visit our contest policy page.

Willamette Valley Vineyards Giveaway

Enter for a chance to win a unique Oregon wine country experience!

The prize includes a night in one of two winery guest suites with luxurious accommodations, warm hospitality and breathtaking vineyard views. The Estate Tasting Room features a cozy setting with elegant fireplaces, an expansive patio and an impressive 65-foot lookout tower showcasing incredible views of the valley and Mary’s Peak. During the day, take a VIP private tour of the winery! Subject to availability.

About Willamette Valley Vineyards

Founded in 1983 by Oregon native Jim Bernau, with the dream of creating world-class Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley Vineyards has grown from a bold idea into one of the region’s leading wineries, earning the title “One of America’s Great Pinot Noir Producers” from Wine Enthusiast Magazine. All of the vineyards have been certified sustainable through LIVE (Low Impact Viticulture and Enology) and Salmon-Safe programs.

Prize must be redeemed by 6/30/2020. Winner must be at least 21 by the redemption date. Prize does not include $150 wine credit normally offered with a paid suite stay.

The contest begins on November 1 at 12:00 a.m. and ends on November 17 at 11:59 p.m. For the complete list of rules, visit our contest policy page.

Weekend Roundup September 5-8

Yes, the kids are back in school, but summer is not over just yet. There’s plenty to see and do around Central Oregon this weekend from a big air big festival in Prineville to an outdoors sports-oriented film festival in Bend. There’s the fabulous Sisters Folk Festival, the annual duck race in Drake Park, as well as the always spirited Art Walk on Friday in Bend to keep you busy.

Battle of Santiago performs at Melvin’s during the 2018 Sisters Folk Festival. Photo © Tim LaBarge 2018

Great Drake Park Duck Race

Sept. 8 | Drake Park

The annual fundraiser and community celebration has raised more than $1 million for local children and families in need. It’s also handed out some amazing prizes to the owner of the lucky duck that first crosses the finish line at the Mirror Pond footbridge. This year’s top prize is a $20,000 voucher toward a new vehicle at Robberson Ford. The event, which is organized by the Bend Rotary Clubs, includes a fun zone, food, and games at Drake Park. Festivities begin at 11 a.m. and include a free kids’ race at noon. theduckrace.com

Sisters Folk Festival

Sept. 6-8 | Multiple Venues

Sisters Folk Festival is a year-round series of music events, education, and creative collaboration, but it all culminates in three epic days of live music that envelops the entire town of Sisters. Held on the first weekend after Labor Day, the eclectic gathering draws world-famous artists to the small town for a full-throated celebration of music across dozens of venues across town.

Cascadia Film Fest

Sept. 5-7 | Bend

The inaugural Cascadia Film Festival (CAFF) debuts this weekend with four film events spread across three days at the Unitarian Universalist Church in Bend. The themes of climbing, biking, paddling, and trail running all are explored in multiple short films. The festival includes presentations from filmmakers and film subjects. A partnership with Wanderlust Tours also brings a series of side-trip adventures that play on the film themes. Individual ticket packages are offered for each of the sessions, so feel free to mix and match.

Doc and Connie Sustainable Lecture

Sept. 5 | High Desert Museum

The late Sisters rancher Doc Hatfield bucked the industrial ag model and pioneered the idea of sustainable ranching. He and his wife, Connie, founded the Country Natural Beef Cooperative to change the way ranchers interacted with the land and their consumers. The High Desert Museum hosts this annual lecture in his honor. This year’s guest speaker, rancher Jon Griggs, will discuss the latest ideas in sustainable ranching.

First Friday

Sept. 6 | Downtown Bend

Art. Walk. Sip. Repeat. You know the drill. Celebrate the last few days of summer at the September First Friday Art Walk in downtown Bend. Art galleries and other downtown business play host to dozens of local artists, showcasing local painting, sculpting, metal works, crafts and more.

Marzocchi Proving Grounds

Sept. 7-8 | Prineville

Bend’s Carson Storch hosts this Red Bull Rampage qualifying events at the Oregon Dirt Park in Prineville where steel nerved, big-feature riders will have a chance to show off their best and biggest tricks for a shot at the Red Bull tour. Tickets available through H5 events.

Adventure in the Rogue Valley

Medford, Oregon is the heart of the Rogue Valley, where adventure, food and wine come together in a world-class natural environment. If you are looking for a long weekend away, let Medford be your launchpad to all the Rogue Valley has to offer. Here are some ideas to get you started.

Take a Tour

When heading out on a new adventure, getting the lay of the land is always the first mission. So, what better way than to have a seasoned local show you around?

The folks at Southern Oregon Express deliver a variety of spirited tours of the Rogue Valley focused on everything from wine to waterfalls. Some of their newest tours include a Gastronomy exploration, Pilates in the Pines, as well as a ghost town adventures.

The Gastronomy tour is a true farm-to-table experience where you can enjoy handcrafted cheeses, farm fresh produce, tapas and more from the local southern Oregon farms. If serious relaxation and soulful experiences are up your ally, forgo the nibbles and combine two of the greatest mind-clearing activities – the outdoors and exercise! Venture high above the pines to a private viewpoint where you will begin a 45 min Pilates routine followed by 10 minutes of solitude to take in your environment.

Does your loved one or family prefer a bit of adrenaline? Then getting wild on the Rogue River with Rogue Jetboat Adventures is the way to go! The Rogue River is a world-famous waterway, and not to be missed while you’re in the region. Coast Guard-certified boat pilots take guests on thrilling jet boat tours on the river where 360-degree spins are frequent and views of the Table Rocks are exceptional. Tours run every day mid-April through mid-December. Guided fishing and overnight camping boat trips are available, too.

Downtown Exploration

Downtown Medford is brimming with exciting new urban discoveries, historic buildings revitalized into new and cool hotspots, and farm-to-table dining. Hit the pavement for a fun-filled day of food, drinks and shopping.

Start at Forage Coffee, located in an old gas station, for coffee and a bit of plant shopping, then visit Buttercloud Café for a homemade biscuit breakfast sandwich. Meander to Thirrteen Mercantile and Design to browse their fun collection of furniture and home furnishings—you’re sure to find something to take home to your abode.

Just across the street you will find a plethora of more shops including Bumble and Wren, a home and garden store and more. Hungry yet? Check out one of the food trucks parked downtown like Heart and Bowl, Peruvian Point or Victory Dogs. Or pull up a bar stool at Common Block Brewing parallel to Pear Blossom Park for wood fired pizza and a pint of Rogue Runner IPA or a Parkside Pilsner.

The place to be in the evening is The Urban Cork, a locally-loved wine bar with a twist. Many of the local wines available here are made right next door at the Pallet Wine Company, a custom crush facility. Other wines are curated from around the region to offer a variety of flights to sip on while noshing on small plates and visiting with friends and locals in this comfortable urban space.

Porter’s Dining at the Depot is a Medford institution, delivering fine dining nightly in a former 1910 train station. Here, local and seasonal ingredients are the highlight of one delicious meal after the next. Don’t forget dessert—Porter’s is known for Jack Daniels Bread Pudding.

Farm to Table

The Rogue Valley Growers Market pops up each Thursday, in season, in downtown Medford’s Hawthorne Park. From March through November between the hours of 8:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m., stroll through this charming market to take in a gorgeous array of local vendors and providers presenting healthy produce, crafts, unique gift items and more. It’s a delight for the senses and the opportunity to take something wonderful home.

Day Trippin’

All around the outskirts of Medford are even more amazing destinations for day trippers and overnight wanderers to explore and enjoy. Take a trip to Upper and Lower Table Rocks, two volcanic plateaus not far from the city. Choose a 3-6-mile hike to take in scenic vistas and plenty of wildflowers, in season.

More hiking can be found at Prescott Park or as the locals know it, Roxyann Peak. It features 1,740 acres of both paved and unpaved trails, winding through an arid forest to climb to a peak with sweeping views of the valley below. Prescott Park is also a great destination for mountain biking on these same trails, if the two-wheeled sort of adventure is more your style.

The Rogue Valley is famous for grape-growing, and over 80 wineries dot the hills and line the rivers around Medford. Pick up a map from Travel Medford, mark out a route, and set forth on a day of wine tasting and vineyard gazing. Half of the fun spent sipping wine are the gorgeous wineries and vineyards to be discovered along the way. Reds, whites and rosés are all in this very diverse wine-growing region.

Savor your long weekend in the Rogue Valley—until next time!

Chris Janson in Concert

August 29 | $35 plus fees

Not many musicians can balance on the line between country’s traditional past and it’s ever changing future, but Janson walks it like an acrobat on a tightrope. Janson’s mix of country styles that push for progress and yet still pay homage to the artists before him garnered him praise from the likes of Keith Urban, Tim McGraw, and even Hank Williams Jr. Come see what all the hype is about, and watch Janson perform this Thursday at Oregon Spirit Distillers.

Little Woody

August 30-31 | Ticket packages start at $5

The Little Woody is back in Bend to celebrate all the barrel-aged libations (and gnomes) that the Northwest has to offer. This festival offers samples of beer, cider, and whiskey from around thirty different breweries, cideries, and distilleries. Festival goers are encouraged to dress as a gnome (the official festival mascot), complete with the hat, beard, overalls, and maybe a pipe, to receive a special Big Woody snifter glass, as well as four drink tokens. The annual festival held at the Deschutes Historical Society property in downtown Bend celebrates the art of barrel aging like no other, so don’t miss out! 21 and over. (Children allowed noon to 6pm Saturday)

Sisters Fall Street Festival

August 31 | Free

Entering its twelfth year, the Sisters Fall Street Festival is once again taking over Sisters’ iconic downtown strip for a day of arts, crafts, beer, and food. There will be live entertainment and a charity fundraiser. Tents will include antiques, commercial goods, art, and of course, a beer and wine garden with some of your favorite local flavors, and maybe even something new!

Sunriver Half Marathon for a Cause

August 31-September 1 | Registration varies based on race

Run with a purpose this weekend in Sunriver at the Half Marathon for a Cause, in which all proceeds go to benefit the St. Charles Cancer Center. Catch some fresh air and stunning panoramas as you run through some of Sunriver’s scenic trails, and do so while knowing that your money went to help a cancer patient in need. Participants can choose to run the half marathon, 10k, or 5k, and kids can sign up for their own “Kids Dash.” No matter which race you choose, you’ll be running with a purpose and helping someone in need.

Descend on Bend

August 29-September 2 | Registration varies

If you’ve ever wondered just what the whole #vanlife is all about, here is your chance. Oregon’s extended van family will “descend” on Oregon’s outback for a weekend of family friendly camping and revelry, and all for a good cause. Think of it as a car show for the Westphalia crowd meets Woodstock, or maybe Pickathon. The weekend includes a Saturday night BBQ and chili cookoff, an ONDA pancake breakfast feed and unlimited moon howling. Tickets in advance required for camping, meals, etc.

Hoedown at Brasada

September 1 | Free

Celebrate the end of summer this Sunday with a full day of live music, a keg rolling race, stein holding competitions, kids’ games, food trucks, teepee bars and more. Sure, there’ll be hay barrels and dancing, but this isn’t your average hoedown.

Weekend Roundup August 22-25

This weekend is sure to have something for everyone. Make the drive up to Madras to witness aviation history. Catch some incredible live music this weekend, with Leftover Salmon playing at Oregon Spirit Distillers, and Cake at the Les Schwab Amphitheater. Art lovers can head to the Old Mill to explore a juried art fair, and adrenaline addicts can head up to Bachelor for beer and bikes. Citizens can exercise their civic duty by attending U.S. Senator Ron Wyden’s town hall, and every dog lover can win raffle prizes and auction items while supporting a cause that rescues dogs off the street.

Leftover Salmon and Watkins Glen

August 22 | $25 plus fees

Few bands have been around for thirty years, and even fewer have been as influential in the bluegrass/newgrass scene as Leftover Salmon. Always unafraid to try something new and add to their ever evolving sound, they’ve left a permanent mark on the modern jamband formula. Come watch them enter their fourth decade together this weekend at Oregon Spirit Distillers, and hear for yourself their often experimental sound.

Art in the High Desert

August 23-25 | Free

Art in the High Desert is a nationally recognized art exhibition that brings more than 120 hand-selected artists to the banks of the Deschutes River in the scenic Old Mill District. Ranked 10th in the nation for Fine Art Fairs by the Art Fair Sourcebook 2018, this celebration of creativity is sure to attract every art lover from miles around. (No Pets Allowed)

Volcanic Bike & Brew Festival

August 23-24 | Free

The rowdiest two-wheeling event of the summer is almost here. Volcanic Bike & Brew Festival is back again for its 5th straight year, going down right in the heart of West Village base area. This is a weekend you won’t want to miss, jam-packed with bike races, demos and clinics, draft pours from all your favorite local breweries, an epic lineup of live music to get you rocking, and so much more!

2019 Airshow of the Cascades

August 23-24 | Price varies

Make the drive out to Madras to experience the 2019 Airshow of the Cascades. This show includes static installments, as well as live shows with Warbirds flying through the air! You yourself can soar through the sky on a glider or helicopter ride, or even on a zipline. Along with the classic motorcycle and car shows, every Airshow visitor gets free entry to the museum which houses the largest privately owned collection of vintage Warbirds in the world!

Speak up for Public Lands—Attend Senator Wyden’s Town Hall!

August 24 | Free

Senator Wyden will be in Bend this weekend to host a town hall, and he hopes to see everyone there. This is your chance to share your opinions with one of our two State Senators. Come to the Central Oregon Community College campus and make your voice heard on the issues that actually matter to you!

Street Dog Hero

August 24 | $20 for adults, $5 for kids

Street Dog Hero’s 2019 fundraiser is coming to the Athletic Club of Bend this weekend. Come take part in the silent auction and win items like a signed Portland Trailblazers basketball, or a free, three-night stay in Whistler, Canada, all while enjoying complimentary libations courtesy of some of your favorite local breweries. Bring your furry friend for free health exams, nail trimmings, and even doga (yoga with your dog)!

Cake in Concert

August 24 | $55 plus fees

Coming out of Sacramento, California, Cake is stopping by the Les Schwab Amphitheater to bless Bend with their unique, irony-drenched, lyrics, filled with satire and pop culture references. Combining more genres than most artists know how to play, Cake created a name for themselves in the 90s with a clash of rock, pop, jazz, country, and more. This weekend, listen to them perform their biggest hits, and maybe even something you haven’t heard before! Special guests, Oregon’s own Dandy Warhols.

Weekend Roundup August 15-18

There’s something for everyone to do this weekend in Bend.

Come celebrate one, two, or even three days of local beer, wine and cider with Brewfest at the Les Schwab Amphitheater. If you’re trying to catch some history and culture this weekend, stop by Sunriver to enjoy a night of classical music. Adrenaline junkies should check out the third installment of the Gravity Race Series, where riders can white knuckle down Mt. Bachelor’s downhill tracks. For people looking to taste something new, one of this weekend’s farmers’ markets are sure to do the trick, or check out the chocolate tasting party at Roundabout Books. Finish off your weekend with a comedy show featuring some of Bend’s best local talent. As usual, there’s something for everyone to do this weekend in Bend.

Bend Brewfest

August 15-17 | Free Admission

Hopheads rejoice. One of Bend’s biggest and most celebrated events is back. Bend Brewfest is a celebration of what makes Bend so great: Local brewers making amazing beer, and sharing it with the community. Drink tokens will be available to purchase to try samples of more than 200 beers, wines and ciders. Brewfest will be open to all ages up until 5 pm, at which point it is closed off to minors. No pets are allowed, with the exception of service animals.

Sunriver Music Festival: Classical Concert II

August 15 | $38-$72

Drop down to Sunriver for a night that celebrates the roots of modern music. Corine Brouwer and Dan Skidmore, two talented and classically trained violinists, are performing six pieces of classical music from a variety of composers, time periods, and genres.

Gravity Race Series #3

August 16 | Free

Come one come all to the third installment of a four-part downhill race series. Held on Mt. Bachelor’s mountain biking course, this race is open to all ages and skill levels. Bring a bike, some friends, and try your luck going down Bend’s premier downhill racing experience. Riders who are at least twenty one years old will be greeted with a free 10 Barrel beer at the end of their race.

Black Sheep Chocolate Tasting

August 16 | Free

Free Chocolate? You heard us right. Roundabout Books is partnering with a new local confectioner, Black Sheep Chocolate, to host a chocolate tasting party where customers are invited to stop by, try some free artisan treats, and check out Roundabout’s new summer book sales.

Bend’s Farmer Markets

August 17 | Free

Two farmers markets mean twice the local and twice the fresh. Happening in both downtown Bend and NorthWest Crossing, the local farmers markets are the perfect place to find fresh ingredients and more. You should expect to see a bounty of fresh produce as per usual, but you might see something that surprises you. A farmer’s market gives local artisans a chance to showcase their hard work, so you never really know what you might find.

Sunday Funday: Comedy Showcase

August 18 | $7 online, $10 at door

Looking to cure those end-of-weekend blues? Sunday Funday offers you a last chance to drink and laugh before starting your work week. Featuring local favorite comedians like Chuck Bronson, Steve Harber, Cole Robeson and Stan Whitton, this night is sure to keep you entertained. Leave the kids at home; this an 18 and over show.

Travel Medford Wine and Dine Giveaway

Enter to win a Wine & Dine Getaway! Let Medford be your launchpad for sampling everything Southern Oregon has to offer. Sip wine. Run Rapids. Play nine. Explore trails. Create stories. Visit Medford.

Giveaway Includes:

(1) Night Stay at Medford hotel of winner’s choice

Stay in your choice of Medford’s perfectly located hotels in the heart of the Rogue Valley. With your comfortable and conveniently located home base, you will be positioned to maximize your wine tasting experience in our beautiful wine country.

(2) Bear Creek Wine Trail Passports

Enjoy two Bear Creek Wine Trail passports which include thirty nine tastes at thirteen different award winning, world class wineries in and around Medford.

(1) Pomodori Dinner Voucher for $100

Wine and dine at Pomodori in downtown Medford where they are known for their thoughtful and exciting cocktails as well as their extensive wine list. In addition to their love of libations, they craft exquisite plates of cascade cuisine with an Italian flare.

(1) Over Easy Brunch Voucher for $75

Experience one of the best brunch spots in Medford and the Rogue Valley. Over Easy began as a pop up brunch business whose massive success set the course for the owner to open his very own brick and mortar in downtown Medford.

Winner will be chosen on September 3, 2019

Package to be utilized by the end of 2019

The contest begins on August 1 at 12:00 p.m. and ends on August 31 at 11:59 p.m. For the complete list of rules, visit our contest policy page.

Share this giveaway with your friends on Facebook, Twitter or email and receive additional entries for each of your referrals.

Weekend Roundup August 1-4

The last full month of summer offers plenty for locals and visitors alike around Central Oregon.

Photo courtesy of Deschutes Fair & Expo Center

The marquis event is the Deschutes County Fair and Rodeo, which celebrates its centennial this year complete with music, rides, agricultural expositions and much more. In Bend, the annual Flashback Cruz is a must see for vintage car buffs and hot rod aficionados. Adrenaline junkies can head to Mt. Bachelor for the Gravity Race, a white knuckle ride down the mountain’s bike course, which concludes at West Village with a complimentary beer from sponsor 10 Barrel.

Deschutes County Fair and Rodeo

July 31-August 4 | Redmond | $12 Adult

This weekend, celebrate 100 years of music, rides, and deep fried twinkies with the Deschutes County Fair and Rodeo. Bring some friends to enjoy the wild rides, the food, and listen to Old Dominion, The Nitty Gritty Dirt Band, and other artists perform live at the expo center in Redmond. A daily livestock auction will be taking place at 10 a.m., and a special memorabilia room will be open all day to commemorate 100 years of fair history.

Flashback Cruz

August 3 | Free

The Flashback Cruz car show is back! Drop down to Drake Park anytime from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday to catch a glimpse of 400 of the hottest rides around. As if the cars weren’t enough, there will be plenty of food trucks, beer gardens, live music, a climbing wall sponsored by the Oregon National Guard, and a raffle drawing that sends the proceeds to the Veterans Association.

Munch and Music

August 1 | Free

A tried and true Bend classic, Munch and Music will be happening this Thursday. With plenty of beer, music, and a wide variety of food vendors, this is the perfect place to meet up with friends and get a bite to eat while enjoying some live talent. The Original Wailers will be performing reggae favorites with special guest, The Cutmen.

Cascade Lakes Relay

August 2-3 | Free

The 12th annual Cascade Lakes Relay takes place August 2-3. This daunting 216-mile relay race begins down by Diamond Lake, and concludes in downtown Bend. The route is designed to highlight the beautiful scenery of central and southern Oregon, and it will be walked/ran by more than 300 teams this year!

Gravity Race

August 2 | Mt. Bachelor | Free

The fifth annual Gravity Race series sends off its second race this Friday, from the West Village of Mt. Bachelor. This downhill joyride is split into two divisions, elite and open, to allow a rider of any skill level an opportunity to compete. And if a rider is over 21, they will be able to enjoy a beer, complimentary of 10 Barrel Brewing, upon completing the race. Everyone is welcome to come watch and share in the camaraderie.

Beer Fest at Pronghorn

August 3 | $5

Head to one of Bend’s nearby resorts for a night of libations. The second annual Beer Festival at Pronghorn Resort will be kicking off this Saturday, August 3, with a selection of beer tastings from several local brewers. You’ll be greeted by some of your favorite craft brews, and you might even discover something new. Don’t miss out on their cornhole tournament, where you could win a cash prize and beer.

Weekend Roundup: May 29-June 2

There are so many good events to fill your weekend calendar.

Cascade Cycling Classic

May 29-June 2 | Bend | Prices vary

After a one-year hiatus, this uber-popular stage race returns to Bend for its thirty-ninth year, with the race moving from mid July to early June. The Cascade Cycling Classic draws the best male and female cyclists from around the world.

Dean Hale Woodpecker Festival

May 30-June 2 | Sisters | Prices vary

200 species of birds were seen last year at the Dean Hale Woodpecker Festival. Birders flock to Sisters each year to join the four-day event. Explore the region, meet other birders and get the opportunity to see an incredible amount of birds throughout the weekend.

BendFilm Power of Film Fundraiser

May 31 | Bend | $50 Individual or Table $425

Bend Film Festival’s annual community fundraiser celebrates the power of film to inspire social action. This year’s event serves as a fundraiser for Healthy Beginnings, a local non-profit dedicated to providing early childhood development tools to parents and families in need. The event includes a catered meal, drinks, limited-ticket raffle and the debut of a locally produced documentary on the Healthy Beginnings program.

Sunriver Brewfest

May 31-June 1 | The Backyard at Sunriver Resort | Free admission + souvenir and beer token purchase

Sunriver Brewfest will kick off the summer beer festival season this weekend. Two dozen breweries from around the Pacific Northwest will be offering fifty different taps, including beer, wine and cider. The festival is a fundraiser for La Pine Sunriver Habitat for Humanity and takes place at the The Backyard at Sunriver Resort. A $20 beer mug is required for entry and comes with five tasting tokens. Survive!

The Oregon Trail

May 31 | High Desert Museum | $45 per team of two

The cult-favorite video game comes to Bend IRL in Survive! The Oregon Trail. This one-day event is produced by the High Desert Museum. Grab a friend and tackle the obstacle course at the museum grounds. Test your wood-cutting, roping and butter-churning skills. After the race, stay for dinner and prizes.

Bend Beer Chase

June 1 | Worthy Brewing | Prices vary

This is the ultimate running event for beer lovers and runners. This one-day relay race starts in Bend then travels to Redmond and back, totaling fifty-five miles and countless ounces of beer. The is the fifth annual Bend Beer Chase produced by Cascade Relays.

Stand On Liquid Giveaway

Founded in 2010 and based in beautiful Bend, Oregon, Stand on Liquid’s guiding principle is that there’s a perfect board for every type of paddler and lifestyle. We believe we’ve created a dynamic SUP development lab, obsessed with bringing you the best quality products designed and tested by paddlers.

The contest begins on June 3 at 12:01 a.m. and ends on June 16 at 11:59 p.m. For the complete list of rules, visit our contest policy page.

Share this giveaway with your friends on Facebook, Twitter or email and receive additional entries for each of your referrals.

Weekend Roundup: May 22-26

There are some great events that the whole family can enjoy this weekend, including Kid’s Day in Sunriver, the finale weekend at Mt. Bachelor and the Tumalo Jam.

Kid’s Day
May 25 | Village at Sunriver | Free

This free event is all about the kids. Held at the Village in Sunriver, Kid’s Day takes place from 11 a.m to 4 p.m. and will have a petting zoo, bounce houses, a rock wall, power jump, art and crafts and more. Bend’s firefighters and police officers will also be there for kids to tour their vehicles and learn more about public safety.

Sunchaser Spring Finale Weekend
May 25-26 | Mt. Bachelor | Free

Ski season comes to a close this weekend, and Mt. Bachelor is going all-out for the finale. You can hit the mountain biking trails from Sunshine lift or ski from Pine Marten and Skyliner—there are prizes for people who do both—then relax in the sun and snow with beer from 10 Barrel. And don’t miss the iconic Pond Skim Championships starting at 10:30 a.m. on Sunday.

Sisters Stampede
May 26 | Sisters | $30-$60

A favorite mountain biking race is happening in Sisters on Saturday. The Sisters Stampede race takes place on the Peterson Ridge trail network, with the start and finish (and after party) at Three Creeks Brewing. Racers will compete for $1,000 cash prizes and more.

Tumalo Jam
May 25 | 65125 Hunnell Rd., Tumalo | $25, kids 12 and under free

The Tumalo Jam is a new event this year. There will be live music, food trucks, a raffle and a costume sale. It’s a family-friendly event with a limited number of tickets sold. The event is a benefit for the local Cascades Theatre Company.

Odds & Ends

The Bend Farmers’ Market is held each Wednesday afternoon at the Brooks Alleyway. This Friday is the Fourth Friday Arts Stroll in Sisters. And Sunday the annual Happy Girls Run takes place in Bend.

Bigstock 2018

Thank you so much for a great Bigstock Bend 2018!

All of us at Bend Magazine are so grateful for the support of all the attendees and sponsors of Bigstock Bend.

We are gearing up for Bigstock 2019 and have already booked a few bands for next year’s event. You can expect to see The Freddy Jones Band, the return of The Sleepless Truckers, and the headliner Big Head Todd and the Monsters!

Get your tickets early, because we are anticipating this year’s limited tickets will sell out well before we see you next August.

Thank you once again for supporting Bigstock Bend and Oregon Adaptive Sports.

Here are some of the great moments from this year’s Bigstock Bend event.

Compass Commercial Real Estate Services: Navigating Economic Trends

Central Oregon’s most diverse commercial real estate company analyzes the successes of 2018, indicators for this year’s market.

As national media continues hailing Bend as one of the top places to live and work, Compass Commercial Real Estate Services wrapped up 2018 as its best year in the company’s twenty-year history. Factoring the current state of the economy, along with all indicators pointing to a strong commercial real estate market, they anticipate another great finish in 2019.

Market data from the national level and locally in Central Oregon tells a compelling story. Fourth-quarter economic reports from the U.S. Commerce Department revealed a 2017 growth rate of 2.6 percent, continuing one of the longest periods of economic expansion in U.S. history.

The Q4 2018 Compass Points® market report forecast was correct. “We’d predicted this trajectory would energize our ability to deliver the results you can expect from a team that has many professional accreditations, decades of experience and industry knowledge, and is dedicated to serving the needs of each client,” said Howard Friedman, partner and the managing principal broker for Compass Commercial.

A favorable market wasn’t the only factor driving remarkable results for Compass in 2018. Their expertise as the only commercial real estate firm in the region offering in-house asset and property management and construction services led to an exceptional year as well.

“Whether you want to buy, sell or lease commercial real estate, schedule tenant improvements, or consult with an asset and property manager to protect and grow your investment, we provide this for everything from office, retail and industrial to land and multifamily property investments,” Friedman said.

Why the 2018 Market Mattered

From Bend’s office and retail market to industrial and multifamily trends, the successes of 2018 were due to factors that will support another prosperous year. Bend’s office market vacancy rate dropped from 3.6 percent in Q4 2017 to 3.4 percent in Q4 2018. Lease rates held steady, too.

Last year, the office vacancy rate dropped for the eighth year in a row. In 2010, vacancies were 22 percent of the total market. Today it’s a fraction of that, with just over 87,000 square feet available.

Bend’s retail vacancies dropped at the end of last year, landing at less than 3 percent in Q4 2018, while rental rates held strong. “Restaurants and new retail projects are commanding high rates, despite the construction of many new projects,” Friedman said.

In the industrial sector, Bend’s vacancy rate dropped for the fifth consecutive year, from 3.3 percent in 2017 to an amazing 1.7 percent last year. In Redmond, those vacancy rates dropped for the seventh consecutive year, from 3.5 percent to just 1.9 percent in Q4 2018.

Office rental rates will remain strong as the supply in Bend remains tight. “This mirrors national trends as the economy continues its steady growth,” Friedman said.

Meanwhile, strong construction and labor costs continue locally. Some companies cite tariffs contributing to price increases in steel and appliances. This will continue to squeeze the office market’s supply. “Projects like Crane Shed Commons and Deschutes Ridge Business Park saw successful leasing during 2018, and there are few new office projects on the books for 2019,” Friedman said.

Robust Sectors and the Rent Question

Central Oregon’s retail market continues its robust growth and low vacancies. Last year, Compass Commercial cited a few projects that are still in the beginning stages, including the former Ray’s Food Place, to become Westside Village Marketplace, a mixed-use retail and multifamily complex, currently under construction. “Many redeveloped retail properties also saw strong absorption in 2018,” Friedman said.

In the industrial sector, rents are strong as the supply remains limited in Bend and Redmond. However, a decade-long collaborative effort was approved for industrial development on 949-acres south of the Deschutes County Fair & Expo Center in Redmond.

Multifamily building in Central Oregon continues. This has eased the housing crunch, but affordability is still an issue. Local community leaders are attempting to ease this, but it is challenging.

Oregon enacted residential rent control this year. “Something must be done to help our neighbors live and work without fearing homelessness or displacement from our growing region,” said Friedman, who is also CEO and board president of the Bethlehem Inn homeless shelter in Bend.

What’s Ahead

Some predict a national economic slowdown, but Central Oregon’s commercial real estate is not expected to be affected. “We predict it will continue to be strong, with rent increases slowing, but values staying robust in 2019,” said Friedman. “Capitalization rates (the rate of return on an investment property based on the income it’s expected to generate) should rise a bit considering increases in interest rates. All in all, we see a bullish market ahead.”

Do you have questions about Central Oregon commercial property market trends? Would you like expert consultation on leasing or selling commercial property, property management or tenant improvements? If so, the experts at Compass Commercial are ready to help. Give them a call at 541-383-2444.

*Statistics and quotes are from the Q4 2018 Compass Points®. To subscribe to the quarterly market report, go to compasscommercial.com/market-research.

A New Hip Gives a New Lease on Life

For Darla Naugher, the decision to have hip replacement surgery became clear while on a beach vacation in Mexico. Instead of running on the beach with her sisters, as she usually would, she simply could not keep up with them. In fact, she could hardly walk at all, because of the pain in her hip.

Like many Central Oregonians, Naugher has a passion for fitness and outdoor recreation; exercise and running were part of her routine and part of her identity, as well. At age 50, she had no intention of slowing down, until she learned more about what was happening to her hip joint.

“I’d been dealing with some foot problems, especially with the joint in my toe, and I assumed that my uneven gait was making my hip hurt,” Naugher explained. She found help from a chiropractor and physical therapist, but eventually she was sent to Dr. James Hall, an orthopedic surgeon at The Center in Bend. Her x-rays clearly showed how the cartilage in her hip socket had degraded, leaving the ball of the femur bone-on-bone in the socket.

Naugher understood that a total hip replacement was the best treatment to relieve her pain, but she wasn’t ready yet. “Dr. Hall said I’d know when it was the right time for surgery,” she said. “But I thought I was way too young—hip replacements were for old people!” said Naugher. Missing out on the fun on her beach vacation was the turning point. She worried that life would soon start passing her by, and she decided to learn more about joint replacement.

About Hip Replacement Surgery

When wear-and-tear arthritis breaks down the smooth cartilage that cushions bone movement within a joint, often the only treatment is a total joint replacement. The surgeon removes the damaged parts of the hip joint, and replaces them with implants made of metal and ceramic or a durable plastic. These implants fit into the bone and recreate the ball and socket of a healthy joint.

New advancements have changed the way this surgery is done, with less disruption to surrounding muscles and tissues.

“Our techniques are so much better now. The incisions are minimal, and the new components have better longevity,” explained Dr. Hall.

Traditionally, hip replacements were only done in a hospital setting, where patients stayed for one or more nights. With the recent advancements, hip replacements can now be done at outpatient surgery clinics. Patients leave the surgery center within hours after the procedure, and begin their recovery in the comfort of their own home.

Choosing Outpatient Care

Dr. Hall found Naugher to be a good candidate for outpatient surgery. “It’s important that patients are in good health overall, and are very motivated to work with the physical therapists,” said Hall. Outpatient surgery candidates also need a key person to stay with them for several days, who communicates with the surgery center staff and supports the patient’s recovery. Naugher fit all of those conditions.

Not every patient finds outpatient surgery to be the appropriate choice. For patients over age 65, Medicare restrictions only cover traditional hospital settings for joint replacement. Some health conditions, including chronic pain problems and sleep apnea, make in-patient surgery a better option. But fit, active patients like Naugher often prefer to avoid hospital settings.

Cascade Surgicenter was the first surgery center in Central Oregon to offer outpatient joint replacement in October of 2015. The surgical group based their protocols on well-established best practices from outpatient centers around the country, and built a support team of nurses, nurse practitioners, and physical therapists with expertise in joint replacement recovery. The trend towards outpatient surgery is growing, according to Dr. Hall, especially among Bend’s population of outdoor enthusiasts.

Naugher felt confident about choosing outpatient surgery for her hip replacement after talking through her concerns with nursing staff at Cascade Surgicenter. “They answered all my questions so thoroughly. I can’t say enough about how good they are,” she said.

Recovery At Home

For the first few days after surgery, Naugher needed help from her sisters. The discomfort was manageable and the need for pain medication was short-lived. The greatest challenge for an active person, like Naugher, may be to follow the doctor’s orders to take it easy.

“The healing happened quickly. I had to promise to do no exercise the first six weeks, and that was the hardest part,” said Naugher. “I felt good, but I just had to stay out of the gym and let it heal.” After a few days of using a walker for balance, she began walking without support. Two weeks later, she returned to work. Once she was cleared to begin physical therapy, Naugher made it a mission to get back to her previous level of fitness.

One year later, Naugher is on the move again, and barely notices any limitations. “It’s a new lease on life, really. I can do anything—I can hike, go to spin class and yoga. I can wear cute shoes again too!” she laughed.

Because her other hip also shows signs of cartilage damage, Naugher has chosen to replace running with hiking, to minimize the impact on that joint. Fortunately, the hiking opportunities in Central Oregon are plentiful, and she heads out to the trails regularly with her dog at her side.

Smith Rock is a favorite destination, and climbing up to take in the views are all the sweeter these days, with no pain to hold her back.

Her advice to anyone considering hip joint replacement surgery? “Once you learn that your pain won’t get better without surgery, don’t wait. Don’t give up all that time, and miss out on a good quality of life while you wait for your hip to get better.”

The Center Orthopedic and Neurosurgical Care offers free seminars on outpatient total joint replacement at OSU-Cascades Tykeson Hall. To learn more or to register for a seminar, contact The Center at 541-322-2211

Life & Time Grand Opening Giveaway

No longer do you have to sacrifice healthy, real food for speed and convenience. At Life & Time, you can have it both ways. We are excited to see this healthy new alternative to conventional fast food, that’s why we’ve partnered with our friends to bring you the opportunity to win a gift card to their brand new restaurant. One winner will randomly be chosen.

“Our food is real and packed with nutrients to fuel all of life’s adventures. We are honored to lead the Real Food Revolution, and change the face of fast food forever.”

The contest begins on February 1 at 12:01 a.m. and ends on February 17 at 11:59 p.m. For the complete list of rules, visit our contest policy page.

Share this giveaway with your friends on Facebook, Twitter or email and receive additional entries for each of your referrals.

Weekend Roundup: January 9-13

With live music, an adventure film and desert talks on the calendar, it’s a great weekend to be in Central Oregon.

BendFilm Presents “Dawn Wall”
January 11 | Tower Theatre, Bend | $15, Free for BendFilm Members

Legendary rock climbers Tommy Caldwell and Kevin Jorgeson star in “The Dawn Wall,” a documentary from directory Josh Lowell. The film follows the pair in January 2015 as they attempt to climb The Dawn Wall, the steepest section of the 3,000-foot-tall El Capitan rock wall in Yosemite National Park.

Jazz at the Oxford: Kat Edmonson
January 11-12 | 10 Below at the Oxford Hotel, Bend | Sold out

Singer-songwriter Kat Edmonson has been the jazz crossover darling for the last decade. Edmonson takes over Jazz at the Oxford for the weekend with three performances of music that she calls “vintage pop,” influenced by the likes of Fred Astaire, Rita Hayworth and Cole Porter. She’ll play in Bend this weekend to a sold-out show.

Cascade Wedding Show
January 12 | Riverhouse on the Deschutes, Bend | $10

If you’re planning a wedding in 2019, you don’t want to miss out on the Cascades Wedding Show. Local vendors and businesses will be at the expo at the Riverhouse on the Deschutes to answer all questions about planning a wedding in Central Oregon. There are also great prizes and raffles, including a honeymoon getaway.

Live Music

There’s a great lineup of live music this weekend. On Friday, Spoken Moto hosts local band Brandon Prinzing & Old Revival. Saturday night’s headliner is Woodstock veteran and Lovin’ Spoonful founder John Sebastian who appears at the Tower Theatre. On Sunday, Radolescents, The Hajj, Bomb Shot and Crow Fisher will be at The Capitol and Howlin Rain with Garcia People’s will be at Volcanic.

Supervolcanoes and Flood Basalts
January 15 | Worthy Brewing, Bend | Free

ONDA begins its 2019 High Desert Speaker Series with “Supervolcanoes and Flood Basalts” a talk from geologist Daniele McKay. The talk will explore how geologic events shaped the landscape and history of Oregon’s high desert. The talk begins at 7 p.m.

The Old Mill District Holiday Giveaway

The Old Mill District is much more than a shopping mall. It mixes your love of shopping, dining and the outdoors into one spectacular place. Riverside restaurants, trails, shops and shows—Bend is here! That’s why we have partnered with our friends at the Old Mill District to bring you an exclusive Holiday Giveaway. One winner will be randomly chosen.

The Old Mill District Holiday Giveaway includes:

$350 Old Mill District Gift Card
4 tickets to Regal Cinemas
Pastini gift certificate ($100)
4 dinner entrees from Anthony’s at the Old Mill District (~$100)
Hilton Garden Inn Breakfast for two ($25)
Desperado gift certificate ($50)
Bend Day Spa Cascade Vibrant Anti-Aging Facial ($120)
Savory Spice Cascadia Collection ($57)
$50 gift certificate to Naked Winery
Tumalo Art Co 18 x 24 signed and numbered print of “Another Day in Paradise” ($65) and eight cards ($24)
Avalon Salon Balancing Facial ($85)
CycleBar month of unlimited spin classes ($129)
REI Co-op Flexlite Chair Underquilt Bundle (Les Schwab Amphitheater-friendly) ($99)
Ben & Jerry’s certificate for a delicious medium customizable cake ($30)
Free Spirit 1-Month Adult Unlimited Membership ($99) & 1-Month Kids Unlimited Membership ($49)
2 full day equipment rental certificates from Tumalo Creek Kayak & Canoe (excluding Hobie Sailboats)($240)

Valued Over $1,500

The contest begins on November 15 at 12:01 a.m. and ends on December 15 at 11:59 p.m. For the complete list of rules, visit our contest policy page.

Share this giveaway with your friends on Facebook, Twitter or email and receive additional entries for each of your referrals.

Weekend Roundup: October 25-29

There are a lot of great events around town this weekend, from the Bend Design Conference to fun seasonal events for kids and families.

Warren Miller Ent. Film — Still photo from Warren Miller’s “The Face of Winter”

Bend Design Conference
October 25-27 | Bend | $185 for three day, $75 for students

Bend Design is a three-day conference that brings talented people from around the world to Bend to speak about all things design. From architects to writers to engineers to entrepreneurs, the speakers cover a wide range of topics about how to use design thinking for social good.

The Addams Family
Through November 3 | 2nd Street Theater, Bend | $25 adults, $22 students/seniors

If you’re looking to get into the Halloween spirit, 2nd Street Theater is producing “The Addams Family,” a new musical comedy based on the spooky family. In this story, Wednesday is growing up and wants to marry a “normal” boy from Ohio. Don’t miss out on this fun show for the season.

Batacular!
October 27 | Deschutes National Forest office, Bend | Free

Kids and families are invited to Batacular!, a free event at the Deschutes National Forest office in Bend to learn about bats and join fun activities. There is also a “batwalk” where kids can showcase their Halloween costumes. The event takes place from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Warren Miller’s “The Face of Winter”
October 27-28 | Tower Theatre, Bend | $21

For those looking for some snow-season stoke, head to the Tower Theatre this weekend to watch Warren Miller’s “The Face of Winter.” This is the sixty-ninth installment of the popular movies created by Miller that showcase the best ski and snowboard athletes on insane adventures around the globe. There are two screenings on Saturday and one on Sunday.

Live Music

On Wednesday, catch David Mayfield Parade play a free show at McMenamins Old St. Francis School. Also that night Diggin Dirt and Company Grand will be playing at Volcanic Theatre. It’ll be a high energy funk/soul concert that is sure to be a party ($12 advance, $15 door).

Weekend Roundup: Aug 8-12

Click here for Bend Brewfest Weekend Roundup: August 15-19

From art festivals to music festivals to a running event at Wanoga Sno Park, here are our picks for the best events around Central Oregon this weekend.

banner-haulin-aspen-race-runners-bend-oregon-finish-1024x600 — Photo courtesy of Lay It Out Events

Bigstock Bend
August 11 | Tumalo

Call us biased, but we think the place to be this weekend is in Tumalo listening to Bruce Hornsby & The Noisemakers and a great lineup of local bands, eating delicious food and drinks, and supporting an organization that helps everyone enjoy the outdoors. Yes, we’re talking about Bigstock Bend, and we want you to be there. Your ticket (and get it now because they’re almost sold out) gives you access to this all-day music event, one free meal voucher for local food trucks onsite, free drinks all night and a great seat to enjoy a classic summer sunset over the Cascades.

Haulin’ Aspen
August 11 | Wanoga Sno Park

This tongue-in-cheek running event is Central Oregon’s only full marathon that takes place completely on trails. Starting and finishing at Wanoga Sno Park are 6.5 mile, half-marathon, and full marathon races that all wander through the scenic forests nearby. Post-run celebrations include great brews and food. It’s a perfect event for those hoping to stretch their legs this weekend.

Sunriver Art Fair
August 10-12 | Sunriver

The annual fine art fair brings dozens of professional artists to Sunriver for a three-day outdoor gallery. There will also be live music, local vendors, and an arts and crafts area for kids. It’s the ninth year for this juried festival that – for two consecutive years – has been named America’s Best Small Town Arts Fair.

Sunriver Music Festival
August 10-22 | Sunriver

Each year, world-class musicians come to Sunriver for a series of classical music performances in August. There are a variety of concerts to watch, as well as masterclasses and open rehearsals. The first classical music performance of the festival will be held at the Tower Theatre in Bend on Thursday evening.

Live Music

The rock, folk, and soul singer-songwriter Amos Lee (“Windows Are Rolled Down” ring a bell?) comes to Bend on Thursday on tour with his most recent self-produced album at the Les Schwab Amphitheater. Find rock-reggae band Tribal Seeds on Friday night at Oregon Spirit Distillers. On Saturday night, Joe Russo’s Almost Dead will take the stage at the Athletic Club of Bend playing “mostly Grateful Dead songs.”

CVT Giveaway: Win a Mt. Shasta 2+ Person Rooftop Tent

Enter to win a Mt. Shasta 2+ person CVT rooftop tent.

Home is where you park it. At least that’s the motto of Cascade Vehicle Tents (CVT), a Bend-based and family-owned company that brings consumers the best way to get off the grid and explore. Outfitting your car with all the necessities for adventure, CVT offers the latest models of rooftop tents and off-road trailers.

The entire prize package is valued at $1,895. The Mt. Shasta by CVT is a 2+ person tent with an extended vestibule for additional room inside the annex room, making it a 2 story roof-top tent. As a part of the Pioneer Line, this tent is equipped with 280-gram canvas rip-stop that is perfect for four-season camping.

The contest begins on July 1 at 12:01 a.m. and ends on July 15 at 11:59 p.m. For the complete list of rules, visit our contest policy page.

Share this article with your friends on Facebook, Twitter or email and receive additional entries for each of your referrals.

The New Camp Cookbook Giveaway

Win a copy of The New Camp Cookbook: Gourmet Grub for Campers, Road Trippers, and Adventurers by Linda Ly

Linda Ly and her husband, along with their toddler, love to take overnight road trips with “no plans, no schedule,” Ly said. “If there’s a squiggly road we see on a map, we’ll tend to take that instead of an interstate or highway.” Ly is the chef and blogger behind Garden Betty, a website devoted to slow cooking and minimal living, and she recently moved to Bend with her family. Their summer adventures across the West were the inspiration for The New Camp Cookbook, a collection of more than 100 recipes to be cooked and enjoyed outside. Though the recipes, which range from savory breakfasts on a skillet to foil-baked dishes over a fire, may seem daunting for a weekend camping trip, Ly insists that they are all easy to prepare away from the convenience of a kitchen. She includes hacks and tips throughout the book to make the cooking process easier, and created the recipes using as few dishes as possible to keep cleanup fast so you can get back to enjoying your trip. Created for car camping—Ly’s family motto is, “If it fits, bring it”—these recipes will elevate any camp meal.

Win a copy of The New Camp Cookbook: Gourmet Grub for Campers, Road Trippers, and Adventurers by Linda Ly.

The contest begins on July 1 at 12:01 a.m. and ends on July 31 at 11:59 p.m. Three winners will be chosen. For the complete list of rules, visit our contest policy page.

Share this article with your friends on Facebook, Twitter or email and receive additional entries for each of your referrals.

Weekend Roundup: Apr. 11-15

Whether you’re in the mood for a live show or a one-of-a-kind gourmet meal or want to explore some trails, there are lots of great events happening in Central Oregon this weekend.

Big Wave Challenge Mt Bachelor — Photo courtesy of Mt. Bachelor

Brewery Smackdown
April 11 | Tetherow, Bend

The second installment of Tetherow’s Brewery Smackdown will feature Silver Moon and Crux going to head-to-head with Sunriver and GoodLife. The event is a five-round food and beer pairing competition where guests, brewers and distributors choose the winner.

Disaster! The Musical
Opens April 13 | 2nd Street Theater, Bend

An homage to classic disaster films of the 1970s, the comedic musical follows a group of people at a casino discotheque that undergoes a series of natural disaster. Disaster! The Musical opens this Friday at 2nd Street Theater and runs through May 5.

Gerry Lopez Big Wave Challenge
April 13-15 | Mt. Bachelor, Bend

The annual style-based and surf-inspired snowboarding competition at Mt. Bachelor returns this weekend. Don’t miss watching this fun competition that features sweeping turns and banks that mimic ocean waves. There’s also a kickoff event at the downtown Bend Patagonia store Friday evening where surfing and sailing pro Liz Clark will be talking about her new book, “Swell.”

Guest Chef Dinner at Suttle Lodge
April 14 | The Suttle Lodge, Sisters

Antica Terra’s winemaker Maggie Harrison and chef Timothy Wastell will be at The Suttle Lodge west of Sisters this weekend hosting a prix fixe dinner. The four-course dinner will include a wine pairing with Antica Terra’s acclaimed wines.

Sunriver Music Festival Piano Showcase
April 13-14 | Tower Theatre, Bend

This two-day event at the Tower Theatre in Bend is a celebration of all things piano. There will be concerts in a variety of piano styles as well as workshops for “music-makers and music-appreciators.” The Piano Showcase is presented by Sunriver Music Festival.

Spring Hiking Trails

Spring is here, which means that some great trails around Central Oregon are starting to open up. Here are a few ideas for where to go this weekend if you’re in the mood to fill a backpack with snacks, dust off your hiking boots and hit the trails. There are hikes with some history and some hikes that might be new to you and hikes guaranteed to be snow-free and also a few urban hikes in Bend.

Weekend Roundup: Feb. 8 – Feb. 11

Head to Hoodoo for its Winter Carnival, stick around town to see a cappella performances and live music or jump in the river for a good cause. Our list includes the best things to do around Central Oregon this weekend with ideas for the whole family.

A Cappella Festival
February 9-11 | Tower Theatre, Bend

This is the third year for the A Cappella Festival, a singing competition that takes over the Tower Theatre and downtown Bend for the weekend. A Capella groups from junior high, high school, college and beyond come to Bend to perform and compete. If you can’t make the main stage performances, head to the Old Mill to watch the ACA-pop performances from the groups.

Live Music
February 9-10, 11 | 10 Below at the Oxford Hotel, Bend and Redmond Performing Arts Center, Redmond

In the third installment of the Jazz at the Oxford series, musicians Paul Creighton and Jerrod Lawson will be performing “A Tribute to Stevie Wonder,” featuring the jazz and soul songs of Stevie Wonder. On Sunday, head to Redmond to listen to Tien Hsieh, an award-winning pianist who will be performing in the event from the Redmond Community Concert Association

Hoodoo Winter Carnival
February 10 | Hoodoo Ski Area, Sisters

Head to Hoodoo for a daylong festival featuring games and activities for the whole family. From a ski javelin throw and a team tube race to a pie-eating competition and Frisbee golf, the Hoodoo Winter Carnival will entertain your family on and off the slopes.

Polar Plunge
February 10 | Riverbend Park, Bend

Brave the chilly water for the Deschutes River for a good cause. The Polar Plunge is an annual benefit event for Special Olympics Oregon, where participants take part in an early morning dip into the river.

We Banjo 3
February 11 | Sisters High School, Sisters

Smoke from wildfire season may have canceled the Sisters Folk Festival in September, but the Winter Concert Series is in full swing. We Banjo 3, an Irish string band considered “the hottest thing in Irish music,” returns to Sisters for the performance.

Bend Magazine’s Most Popular Stories of 2017

Our most popular stories of the year, from top-of lists to historical features.

1. 5 Classic Drive-Ins You Have to Eat at This Summer

Nothing says, “summer is here!” like a burger hot off a sizzling grill with a side of piping hot fries, preferably served with a milkshake. No Central Oregon summer vacation or staycation is complete without a stop at one of several nostalgia-rich, drive-in burger joints sprinkled around Central Oregon.

Read the full story.

2. Mr. and Mrs. Smith: Visionary Duo Transformed a Town

Bill Smith at his office at William Smith Properties in Bend, Oregon.

It’s approaching midnight on the Deschutes River and the scene is unusually quiet at the Brooks-Scanlon lumber mill in 1973. A workers’ strike has silenced the churning economic backbone of Bend, which, in 1973, supports many of the nearly 15,000 residents, directly or indirectly. The night watchman patrolling the riverbank has no clue his contributions would one day make an “undeniable impact on changing the face of Bend and what it means to visit here.”

Read the full story.

3. Four Hikes That Are (Usually) Snow-Free

In Central Oregon, hiking season is year-round. When there’s snow in the mountains, head to these lower elevation trails throughout the region. Closer to town or in canyon country, these trails usually stay clear of snow throughout the winter months.
Read the full story.

4. The Coldest Cold Case

A brazen bombing remains at the heart of a ninety-year-old mystery that rocked the small mill town at the height of Prohibition.

Read the full story.

5. Flyte Camp Builds Retro Camping Trailer With Modern Luxuries

Anna and Justin Scribner, owners of Flyte Camp, a vintage trailer restoration company in Bend, Oregon. — Photo by Carol Sternkopf

Flyte Camp, a vintage trailer restoration company in Bend, breaks the mold in the camp trailer industry with its new line of trailers that look vintage, but have modern luxuries.
Read the full story.

6. Bend She Shed Doesn’t Sacrifice Style for Space

Valerie Yost's she shed in Bend, Oregon.

Named in the same vein as the “man cave,” she sheds are often built by and for women. The outbuildings offer a dedicated space to pursue hobbies and crafts.

Read the full story.

7. NW Green Panels Makes Instagram-Worthy Greenhouses

Dutch doors, French windows and wainscoting are not terms you would expect to use when describing a backyard greenhouse. Then again, these are not run-of-the-mill greenhouses. Custom designed, made with Incense Cedar, and handcrafted with wood and stone details, the greenhouses made by NW Green Panels are immensely Instagram-worthy.

Read the full story.

8. Hiking the Mt. Bachelor Summit Trail

Mt. Bachelor, Summit Trail | Photo by Allison Miles

What better way to start a workday than with a mountain summit? Mt. Bachelor may seem a little intimidating, but the trail to the summit is beautiful and totally doable. With 2,600 feet of climbing in about 3 miles, it’s only about twice the distance of hiking Tumalo. Usually you’ll have the mountain to yourself, though occasionally you’ll see a lone skier hiking to a high snow-patch for a morning turn.

Read the full story.

9. 7 Ways to Stay Cool This Summer

Cliff jumping at Steelhead Falls in Central Oregon — Photo by Adam McKibben

Central Oregon is known for its almost unnaturally cool summer evenings, but the days are another story. Come July and August, the High Desert begins to live up to its name. If you don’t have air conditioning, it can be tough to beat the heat. (And who wants to sit inside, anyhow?) Thankfully, our wealth of rivers, streams, reservoirs and high alpine lakes offer boundless opportunities to soak, splash and even surf.
Read the full story.

10. Whitewater Kayaking in Central Oregon

With irrigation-moderated flows, scores of rapids and a variety of runs, rivers in the Bend area make for great year-round kayaking. Whether you’re front surfing at the whitewater park or running rapids on the Deschutes River, share the water and paddle safely with these practical tips while enjoying the best regional places to point your kayak downstream.

Read the full story.

Wild Oregon Foods Joins the Bend Factory Stores

Wild Oregon Foods brings a modern take on classic deli food from a seasoned Bend chef in southeast Bend.

When James Fink was growing up in the Bay Area, his family would drive forty-five minutes to get sandwiches at a small, hole-in-the-wall deli tucked between a tanning salon and a bank. His nostalgia for that place, and the sandwiches, kept him coming back years later when he was starting his career as a chef.

When he and his wife, Sarah, decided to open their own restaurant here, a location in the Bend Factory Stores, tucked on a corner next to Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, brought back James’ memories of that deli from his childhood. Walking into the space for the first time, “I just had that weird, tingly feeling of it being just the right spot,” said James, who before opening his own spot helped craft dishes at Jackson’s Corner, Brasada Ranch and most recently Deschutes Brewery. Within six months, he and Sarah opened Wild Oregon Foods, a modern diner serving a fresh take on casual, deli-style food. A variety of soups, salads and sandwiches are all made using ingredients sourced as locally as possible.

Khrisma Carter, the property manager at the Bend Factory Stores, said she thinks Wild Oregon Foods will thrive in this neighborhood. “I’m really excited about this one, because it’s locally sourced,” said Carter. “I think in this community it’s really going to take off.”

Located on Third Street in southeast Bend, the Bend Factory Stores is the home of Oregon outdoor brands such as Nike, Columbia Sportswear and Pendleton as well as national brands such as Coach and Eddie Bauer. There are more than twenty shops and retailers in the walkable location, and Wild Oregon Foods is the only full-service restaurant there. Carter said that Wild Oregon Foods fits in with the hometown feel of the Bend Factory Stores.

“Wild Oregon Foods being so locally sourced is a good fit for where we’re trying to go,” said Carter. Plus, “their food is delicious.”

Making local and organic food accessible and affordable is something that James and Sarah value.

“We really want to make sure that organic food isn’t a privilege, but something that all of us are invested in,” said Sarah. “Because it’s too expensive, or you can only go to certain places to buy it, large swaths of our community get excluded. That was one of the reasons we chose southeast Bend. There really is nothing down here like it.”

Wild Oregon Foods serves lunch and dinner, and has a marketplace with local snacks and drinks. The restaurant also has a generous happy hour menu, with housemade cocktails inspired by local ingredients. Soon, Wild Oregon Foods will start serving breakfast, too. Sarah and James hope that it becomes a destination for families seeking quality and healthy comfort food, much like the deli from James’ childhood.

“We are trying to pave the path for new, healthy living for a lot of people that wouldn’t have the opportunity two minutes from their house,” said James.

With Wild Oregon Foods, James is on a mission to expose people to better ingredients, and in turn, better food.

“There’s not much to it,” said James of the menu. “It’s very simple, comfort, pure love in the food.”

Wild Oregon Foods

Open Tuesday – Friday, 11 a.m. – 8 p.m., Saturday 8 a.m. – 8 p.m., Sunday 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.
61334 S Hwy 97 Suite 360
Bend, OR 97701
541-668-6344
wildoregonfoods.com

Bend Factory Stores

Open Monday – Saturday, 9:30 a.m. – 8 p.m., Sunday 11 a.m. – 6 p.m.
61300 S Hwy 97
Bend, OR 97702
541-382-4512
bendfactorystores.com

From the Flames: The Reinvention of Anjou Spa

Anjou Spa, a local spa in Bend, found itself in a pinch when the building it was in burned down last September. Over a year later, owner Jenna Walden and her team have reinvented the spa as it rises from the ashes in a new location.

Jenna Walden was stunned when Anjou Spa was destroyed in a fire last September. With seven years of ownership under her belt, a natural disaster was one thing the seasoned entrepreneur hadn’t expected.

Walden, who has a background in architecture and real estate development, soon came to view the tragedy as an opportunity. “We did some soul searching,” said Walden. “Managing the day-to-day operations of a business that was open seven days a week meant that we never had the time to dive deep. Once the shock wore off, we had the chance to rethink everything.”

The former location just east of downtown, said Jacqueline Smith, PR representative for Anjou, had never been entirely ideal. “Parking and visibility were challenges,” she said. It was immediately clear that fire wouldn’t be the end of Anjou’s story. By November, Anjou had taken up residence in a temporary location, a vacation rental house on Bend’s west side. Then the decision-making began around a permanent home for Anjou. Rebuilding meant rethinking everything from locale and floorplan to paint, spa slippers and service menu. It was a chance to recreate Anjou with an eye toward creating a premium experience for clients.

When a new-construction space at the base of college hill on Bend’s west side became available, Walden took it. The advantages were clear: Anjou could be designed from the studs up, in the heart of a flourishing neighborhood near the homes of many of the spa’s local client base.

“We thought a lot about what kind of Bend spa we are, how do we fit in this place that is popular and trending,” said Walden. Rather than go for busy centers like downtown or the Old Mill District, Walden chose calmer, more accessible digs that where locals and visitors alike would feel welcome. The new location “is a restful space between the west side and NorthWest Crossing,” she said. “We are of course open to the tourist population, but the core of our clientele is local. We wanted to cater to that.”

Rethought, too, were Anjou’s guiding principles. “We’d always been Bend’s green spa and organic spa,” explained Smith. “Now was a chance to re-own that and to challenge ourselves to do it even better.” Anjou re-committed to organic products, including Eminence Organics, a line out of Hungary so pure that its products are edible, for treatments. But “organic” didn’t stop with cosmetic products—the filter was applied to everything the spa would need to operate, from brochure paper to spa robes. “Local” was the secondary filter applied, leading Walden to round out the spa’s offerings and accoutrements with Oregon-made items. “We embraced the makers,” said Walden. “There are so many artisans and artists working in Bend.”

Place and philosophy in order, now it was on to the design. Walden drew on her past experience in architecture and real estate design to reimagine Anjou. “I like to create a backstory for each project,” she said. “It helps me focus.” For the new Anjou, the backstory was rooted in Bend’s past. Walden imagined a family living on the western frontier around 1910, creating wealth from timber and ranching. Eventually, that family moves to town and builds a home. What would it look like?

Walden said, “Our style is Edwardian with high ceilings and rustic touches. It’s a modern aesthetic accented with materials of the region, like Ponderosa pine, Douglas fir, and volcanic rock.” Entering the spa will feel like entering someone’s home. The lobby has slate floors, natural light and casual seating. “The relaxation room is a formal space, with a fireplace. Colors are warm and light low. The couple’s treatment room is lush, like a master bedroom, with nice touches like crystal lamps.” The overall feeling is welcoming and true to place. “We’re a friend recommending to people—this is how you can relax in a way that is unique to this place.”

An amenity that the old Anjou didn’t have but that is sure to be a hit is the sand room, or Korean sauna. Six inches of sand sits over a floor with radiant heating. The room has infrared heaters with a starry night LED light show installed overhead. “It’s a great place to stretch, relax and meditate,” said Smith. At 140 degrees, the sand room is cooler than a traditional Swedish sauna, but because it’s lit with infrared heat lamps, the heat warms the body directly, instead of the air. “It’s a great place to heat up your body before a treatment,” explained Walden.

Anjou is set to open in early October, just over a year after the devastating fire. The fire may be in the past, a lingering catalyst to the new amazing Anjou, but Walden doesn’t intend for it to be forgotten. Purposeful touches throughout the spa will remind guests—and staff who stuck with Walden through the rebuild process—of Anjou’s origin story. The lobby is accentuated with wood that has been charred and lacquered, in a Japanese process called shou sugi ban. Explained Walden, “Plants will emerge from this charred wood, representing what we’ve been through. Fire brings life; even devastation can make us stronger.”

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