Hello! Thanks again for joining me on this exciting journey through Central Oregon. This month’s question was sent anonymously, and what an interesting inquiry it is. Q: “What’s the deal with China Hat?” A: Very broad indeed, but significant and a question I was eager to explore. Because the reader did not go into specifics, […]
Joshua Savage
Becoming a Master Gardener in Central Oregon
Just what does it mean to be a Master Gardener? No, the “Master” doesn’t imply these individuals know everything there is to know about plants and gardens, but people who become one certainly have a strong desire to learn. They love to spend time outside, discover new plant types and get their hands dirty in […]
Become a Junior Park Ranger
Families who have visited one or more of the U.S. National Parks may be familiar with this motto and the Junior Ranger program. This is a super fun and educational way for kids to learn about the variety of natural landscapes throughout the country. Plus, you get to collect cool badges! I have a healthy […]
Ease the Spring Break Pain
Planning a road trip for the kids’ spring break? If not, no need to worry. Why leave Bend? Central Oregon has an endless amount of natural beauty with tons of trails and multiple parks to explore. But what about activities for kids who are tired of parents making them hike or bike all the time? […]
Savage in Bend
Hello readers! Hopefully, you all set some lofty goals at the beginning of 2024 when it comes to exploring Oregon. Because we live in such a large state, full of diverse history and geography, I set goals the beginning of each year to visit specific places. I might not get to all of them, but […]
Savage in Bend
Here we are, back again for the final “Savage in Bend” question of 2023! This one comes from Jon Jones, perhaps better known around town as The Bend Foodie, thanks to the well-known and appetizing Facebook Group of the same name. Jones heard a rumor and wants to know, “Did Bend ever have a secret […]
It’s a Snow Day!
Many may remember “Snowmaggedon of 2017”, as well as the winter of 2019, which also had a considerable amount of snow. In fact, February 25, 2019 ranks fifth on the all-time list of daily snowfall in Bend! We may not get quite as much snow this season, but more often than not the city transforms […]
Savage in Bend: Exposing the Quirks That Make Central Oregon Unique
Hello amazing readers! Here we are again for Round Two of Savage in Bend, a new column where curious individuals submit those burning questions about everything Central Oregon. Our latest question comes from avid “Source Weekly” reader Dennis D. who asks, “What do you know about the Pilot Butte airport? Nada. I have to admit, […]
What in the World to Do with a Teenager?
The transition has hit. As of this summer I officially have two teenagers living at home. As my daughters become young adults, the thought of hiking or biking any significant distance immediately elicits resistance and strong complaints from both of them. One would assume that growing up in Bend would automatically instill an appreciation and […]
Fall Excursions
The kids have started school, the days are shorter and the daily routine has returned, but no need to stop traveling. In fact, fall can be one of the best seasons to discover new adventures. Whether a day trip, a Saturday and Sunday or a long weekend (kids always seem to be getting an extra […]

