Have you ever read a book to a 5-year-old? Their enthusiasm for choosing which book they want to read, their excitement at telling you that the stegosaurus has protective armor to save it from the meat eaters, or their giggle as they picture Pete the Cat stepping into a pile of blueberries in his new […]
Culture Features
Love to Love You
For some of us, Valentine’s Day can be less of a romantic holiday spent luxuriating in connection and more of a flashing neon sign pointing out the failure to find love. Don’t get me wrong, I’ve had a lovely V-Day or two, but more often than not, I find myself unpacking what’s missing from my […]
Books for a Healthy Mind and a Healthy Year
A 2023 Forbes Health survey reported that most New Year’s resolutions are abandoned within the first four months of the year. Sabrina Romanoff, PsyD, a clinical psychologist, attributes this to our tendency to set very specific goals, rather than general improvement, and discouragement sets in before we put the necessary time in to meet our goal. […]
The Psychedelic Frontier: Exploring Intentional Psychedelic Use in the Modern World
Q: Aside from the substances themselves, what do you find to be the single biggest factor or determinant in lasting, healing change or growth in the people you work with? Thank you for the opportunity to answer this important question. In sitting with hundreds of people navigating psychedelic realms, I’ve learned that the synthesis of […]
Musical Theater, Cabaret, Drag and Film Events Aplenty
One of the best things about living in Bend is the bottomless number of cultural events that happen on an almost daily basis. One of the worst things about living in Bend is that there are only so many hours in a day to go on these cultural adventures. Still, it’s a pretty good problem […]
Intentional Reading in 2025
As I write this month’s column, I hear bookselling chatter and bustling holiday shoppers all around me. Before I start talking about next year’s books, I want to take this moment to thank all of you for your support this year โ not just at my shop but at literary outlets all over Central Oregon. […]
The Psychedelic Frontier: Empowered to Explore
In the ever-evolving landscape, it’s crucial we occasionally pause, ground ourselves and reflect on the journey we’re undertaking โ especially when exploring the vast, unknown territories of the mind and spirit. This is one of those reflective pauses, a moment to clarify and reaffirm my heart, purpose and role. At its core, this column is […]
Winter Wonderland: Try These Outdoor Activities in Central Oregon
Winter in Central Oregon is a season of beauty, adventure and fun. Whether you’re exploring snowy trails under the stars, racing down a mountain or lacing up your ice skates, there are a variety of ways to embrace the chilly season. These upcoming events are perfect for anyone looking to stay active, connect with nature […]
Festive Fun: Holiday Events to Brighten Your Season
The holiday season is in full swing and Central Oregon is buzzing with festive events. From art sales in a snowy setting to cozy movie screenings, cookie decorating fundraisers and enchanting musical performances, there’s no shortage of holiday cheer to fill your calendar. Here’s a roundup of must-see events to make your season extra magical. […]
Give Books for a Thoughtful Season
It’s easy to forget that the darkest time of the year is when the Earth is at its closest point to the sun. The cold days and long nights draw us inward as we reflect on the year and bring our loved ones in close. The glittering ice and twinkling lights remind us that the […]

