Free Nordic Ski Lesson
wednesday 28
Want to learn how to Nordic ski, but got turned off by cost of lessons? Then take advantage of this free session. You can even rent the gear from Pine Mountain Sports for free while you get real, on-snow experience under the watchful eyes of a seasoned vet. All you have to do is email [email protected] to nail down a time. Do it on your own time, because this an ongoing offering brought to you by the Central Oregon Nordic Club. Pick up your gear at Pine Mountain Sports, 255 SW Century Dr.
DJ Rascue with Emcee Belief
friday 30
Bored with the same old night scene? The California-based reggae and hip hop artist, DJ Rascue is in Bend to ensure that you get something different. Something better. Rascue's beats are backed by a positive message of social change. Add local girl Emcee Belief to the mix and you've got a solid night of hip-hop. And you know what? It's free. Yes, free ninety free. Done. See you there. 9:30pm, Astro Lounge, 939 NW Bond St.
Songs and Winter Poems
friday 30
When long-time Source contributor and naturalist extraordinaire, Jim Anderson (who's also the founder of the Nature Center) is in the story-telling mood, get ready for a treat. We rejoice when Mr. Anderson graces our office with a visit as he usually brings with him his trunk of experiences and good humor. Anderson's master storytelling along with the acoustic sounds of Cinder Blue should make for a good time. For $20 you get all of the above, plus poetry readings and refreshments. 7-9pm, Sunriver Nature Center & Observatory, 57245 River Road.
New Year's Eve
saturday 31
Whether you're one of those people who invests all their party fuel for the year in New Year's Eve, or a guy who declares NYE "amateur hour," you have to admit that you're excited that it falls on a Saturday night this year. For those still looking for something to do, flip to page 24 for a complete rundown of concerts, dinners, parties and other fun stuff that's set to go down on New Year's Eve. Remember, this could be your last one of these... if the Mayans have their way with us, or whatever, next December. Again, see page 24.
The Terrible Buttons with Willy Tea Taylor
sunday 1
Dark and lonesome with a banjo and haunting harmonies, the Terrible Buttons are an up-and-coming folk-rock band from Spokane. Lead singer and guitarist Kent Ueland often sounds a bit like a young Tom Waits with his gargling, gravelly voice. Sarah Berentson adds a bit of mystery to their sound with her soulful singing and raggedy accordion. This young band isn't scared to break out non-traditional instruments too, like glass bottles and boxes of change, which make them pretty rad in our book. Since it's only $5, you'll have money left over to buy a couple of Old Germans at the show. 8pm. Horned Hand, 507 NW Colorado Ave.
Classical Form to Romantic Intentions: Michael Gesme Takes on Beethoven
thursday 5
Kick off the New Year by boosting your knowledge of the classics. The first installment of this five-part series is a presentation from local music man Michael Gesme who explores exactly what it is that makes Beethoven so great. Learning stuff for free is pretty cool. 6:30pm East Bend Public Library, 62080 Dean Swift Rd.
Five Pint Mary with Harley Bourbon
friday 30
We gave a listen to Five Pint Mary's new self-titled album last week and we'll be dipped in dirt if those Celtic rockers didn't make us want to drink our damn faces off. The party-hardy band blends traditional Irish sounds with contemporary punk sounds for a very Flogging Molly-esque product that should go well with a pint (or five). Luckily, the show is at the M&J, so can have a drink while you jig. Also, fellow booze lovers Harley Bourbon open the show, so you'll be in good company if you arrive thirsty. 9pm. M&J Tavern, 102 NW Greenwood Ave.
