Oregonโs Senator Jeff Merkley announced in a press release Sept. 18 a groundbreaking resolution asking the President to recognize a Palestinian state. It’s the first time the U.S. Senate has ever formally called for recognizing a Palestinian state while also supporting a secure Israel. The announcement comes just two days after Central Oregon activists staged […]
Sarah Isak-Goode
Sarah is a local writer with a knack for interviews and research. She is passionate about representing the human experience, no matter the subject. When not writing, she enjoys painting, reading historical texts and hiking with her dog, Thor.
Being Bond in Bendย
Ordering a martini โ shaken, not stirred โ can make anyone feel like James Bond. But in a laid-back town like Bend, that classic line might come off a bit too polished. For a drink that nods to timeless style without trying too hard, consider an Old Fashioned. Itโs vintage, itโs classy and it fits […]
Raise a Glass at Sisters Saloonย
Step through swinging cowboy doors and into a slice of Central Oregon history at Sisters Saloon, a beloved gathering spot in downtown Sisters. Housed in the restored Hotel Sisters, originally built in 1912, the saloon blends Old West charm with a welcoming, modern-day vibe. The establishment features heavy wood furniture, a copper ceiling and western […]
Central Oregon Faces Worst HIV Crisis on Recordย
Beth thought the hardest part was over when her COVID symptoms finally cleared in late 2022. Like many Central Oregonians, she had delayed routine health care during the pandemic, focusing instead on getting by while the world shut down around her. But months later, a routine blood test at Deschutes County’s health clinic revealed something […]
Redmond Fire and Rescue Earns Peds Ready EMS Certificationย
Redmond Fire & Rescue has earned official recognition as a Peds Ready Emergency Medical Systems agency by the Oregon Emergency Medical Services for Children Program, highlighting the department’s commitment to emergency care for kids. A Peds Ready agency is an ambulance service or hospital emergency room that’s been evaluated and found to have the right […]
COVID-19 Vaccine Access Limited in Oregonย
Since 2021, the COVID vaccine has been available to healthcare providers. However, federal changes to the 2025-2026 COVID-19 vaccine program have introduced strict eligibility requirements and reduced availability, raising concerns among thoseย who currently don’t qualify for the vaccine. In the coming days, state and local officials hope to gain more information about how federal policy […]
Bendโs Welcoming Week is Backย ย
Bend is kicking off its eighth annual Welcoming Week today (September 12-21) with events celebrating the “Stories We Share” โ bringing together longtime residents and newcomers through cultural celebrations, conversations and community gatherings.ย The City of Bend and St. Charles Health System are leading the charge, but dozens of local organizations are hosting everything from […]
Bend Municipal Airport Tower to be Completed in 2026 ย
Bend Municipal Airport, Oregon’s third-busiest airport, is expected to have a finished air traffic control tower in early 2026. Construction crews began building the tower in August 2024. As of this month, Tracy Williams, airport manager, says that the project is about 80% complete. To finish the project, the road needs to be paved, fencing […]
Budding Businessesย ย
The City of Redmond has approved two marijuana dispensaries, months after the City Council voted to allow dispensaries within city limits. Oregrown plans to open its fifth location around the holidays at 2127 U.S. Highway 97, Suite 110, in a strip mall near The Back Porch and Company. The new store will join the company’s […]
Deschutes County Hosts Events for Suicide Prevention Awareness Monthย
Deschutes County is hosting several community events throughout September to raise awareness about suicide prevention and connect people with mental health resources. โSuicide Prevention Awareness Month is especially important as it can help bring visibility, understanding, and hope to a health issue that is often surrounded by silence and stigma,โ said Caroline Suiter, mental health […]

