CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): A newly planted orchard spends its first year growing roots, not fruit. Underground and unseen, the real work happens. I surmise that’s like what you will be doing in the coming months, Capricorn: mostly invisible stabilization and preparation. If anyone asks you what you’re producing, smile inscrutably and say, “Depth.” Be […]
Culture
Posted inCulture
A Night of Stand-Up with Adam Carolla at the Midtown Ballroom
It’s not his problem if you’re offended
Adam Carolla is coming to Bend for an hour of stand-up. I spoke with the legendary comedian about burning houses, building houses, California’s slide into the s*****r, and bidets. the Source: Have you been to Bend before? Adam Carolla: I did a show in Eugene and then I drove to Bend. I believe there’s a […]
Posted inColumns
Have a Happy New Year?
Yes, that IS a question mark after the headline above. Not a typographical error. So, what’s up with the question mark? Here we go… I like and can live merrily with, Merry Christmas. Likewise, I like and can live joyfully with, Happy Hannukah. Although originally celebrated for 12 days, Christmas currently is often a one […]
Posted inFilm
Spectacle Fatigue
Avatar: Fire and Ash is more of the same (for good and bad)
I don’t think I’m in love with the “Avatar” films as much as I should be and that might be directly correlated to the number of movies that I’ve seen across the years of my life. I’m fully aware that James Cameron and his team of technical geniuses have, with Pandora, built a world that […]
Posted inColumns
The Psychedelic Frontier Dec. 25
Traditional vs Modern Approaches
Q: After 20+ years in traditional indigenous ceremonies with mushrooms, peyote, and ayahuasca in South and Central America, I’m watching local options emerge with both curiosity and apprehension. Most seem facilitated by mental health professionals or those with limited connection to indigenous roots. What’s the difference between these approaches and traditional circles? Are there benefits or […]
Posted inColumns
Star Quality
Observations about what’s above us
A few years ago I headed to Oregon’s Summer Lake Wildlife Area to meet friends for our annual spring bird-a-thon. Armed with binoculars, the Merlin Bird ID app and bird books, we good humoredly tried to outdo each other’s species count. Come nightfall, I took in the staggering beauty of the Milky Way that claimed […]
Posted inFilm
A Year of Excellence
The best (and some worst) films and shows of 2025
Every year, when it’s time to make my end-of-the-year list, I realize there are still too many new releases that I’ve yet to see, which is somewhat ridiculous since I actually managed to catch around 150 releases from 2025. That’s plenty. Feels like plenty. Along with all the new shows I tried to catch, I […]
Posted inCulture Features
Make 2026 the Year of Reading
Recommendations to start your book list
The frenzy of the holidays is almost behind us and 2026 is just around the corner. For many, using the new year to set goals and resolutions is a time-honored tradition. Some of you may join a gym or commit to Dry January. Perhaps you want to do more for our local community. Volunteer at […]
Posted inCulture
A Variety of New Year’s Eve Celebrations in Bend
From snowbound parties to a speakeasy to Latin dancing, there’s something for everyone
As 2025 comes to a close, Bend has no shortage of events to help you ring in the New Year with style. From luxurious dinners and endless dancing to champagne toasts shared with friends, there’s truly an event for everyone looking to end the year on a high note. One of the many events taking […]
Posted inCulture
Free Will Astrology Week of Dec. 18
Sagittarius will have a Mozart-like aptitude in the coming months
SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): According to legend, the genius composer Mozart heard entire symphonies in his imagination before he wrote down any notes. That’s a slight exaggeration. The full truth is that he often worked hard and made revisions. His inspiration was enhanced by effort and craft. However, it’s also true that Mozart wrote at […]
