We’re still buzzing from the magic of Bend Magazine’s 11th Anniversary Party. We celebrated by bringing together advertisers, contributors, partners and supporters for an evening dedicated to the people who make Central Oregon special. The celebration was centered around connection and gratitude and culminated with Gerry Lopez receiving the 2026 Soul of Central Oregon Award, recognizing his lasting impact on the region and the community he calls home.
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An Evening of Celebration
Nearly 200 guests gathered on the lawn at Oregon Media’s headquarters for a luau with live music by Bill Keale. Donner Flower Shop outdid itself with colorful floral arrangements featuring bird-of-paradise blooms and orchids that transformed the space, while Bowtie Catering delighted everyone with island-inspired cuisine. Our friends at Crafted Life kept the good times flowing with craft cocktails and a beer canoe. Sunriver Brewing provided refreshing local brews.
The relaxed atmosphere encouraged conversation and connection as friends, partners and supporters gathered to celebrate another year of telling Central Oregon’s stories.
Honoring Gerry Lopez
In 2024, Oregon Media established the Soul of Central Oregon Award to celebrate individuals who have helped shape the culture, identity and future of Central Oregon. This year’s recipient, Gerry Lopez, embodies the spirit and values of our region. Known worldwide as “Mr. Pipeline,” Gerry Lopez has inspired generations through his humility, adventurous spirit and commitment to community. A longtime Central Oregon resident, Gerry has championed the outdoors, healthy living and a life lived with purpose. Through his character, generosity, and example, Gerry Lopez truly embodies the Soul of Central Oregon. Past award recipients include developer Mike Hollern and community leader Trish Smith.
Every anniversary offers an opportunity to reflect, and this celebration was no exception. The continued support of Bend Magazine’s advertisers, contributors, partners and readers has made more than a decade of storytelling possible.
As Bend Magazine begins its next chapter, the evening served as both a celebration of the past and a reminder that the strength of Central Oregon has always been found in its people. Here’s to many more years of sharing the stories that connect our community.
