For over a hundred years heart disease has consistently been the leading cause of death in the United States. In 2023, it accounted for approximately 22% of all American deaths, according to the Centers for Disease Control. The reasons for this are complex, on one hand having to do with the fact that other endemic […]
Culture
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DD Ranch
Working hard for a dream
Perhaps you’ve seen their beef at the local farmersmarkets, honey at Newport Market or even visited the ranch during their October pumpkin patches, but the true story behind DD Ranch nestled in Terrebonne is one of relentless work and unwavering determination. The Anspach family, owners of DD Ranch, not only manage to somehow maintain a […]
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Human of Steel
Superman leaps over trolls in a single bound
I‘m tired of having to point this out about movies, television shows and daily life, so I think this is the last time I’m ever going to broach this topic and I’m going to do so in a way I hope isn’t too terribly offensive: If you think the new “Superman” movie is “woke” then […]
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Horoscope Week of July 17, 2025
CANCER (June 21-July 22): Ancient beekeepers in Anatolia carved hives directly into rock faces, coaxing honey from the cliffs. This practice was designed to protect bees from harsh weather and predators while maximizing honey production. The bees adapted well to their unusual homes. I suspect, Cancerian, that in the coming weeks, your sweetness and bounty […]
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Horoscope Week of July 10, 2025
CANCER (June 21-July 22): In Yoruba cosmology, ase is the sacred life force that animates the universe. It’s divine energy that can be harnessed by humans to make things happen, to speak and act with ardent intention so that words and deeds shape reality. I am pleased to report that you Cancerians are extra aligned […]
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Breaking Through Chronic Healing Plateaus
Tools for Getting Unstuck
After 25 years in naturopathic medicine, I’ve seen it countless times: a patient who eats well, takes supplements, prioritizes movement and mindfulness—but still feels stuck. Despite all their efforts, a particular chronic issue simply won’t budge. As a new transplant to Bend, I’ve been inspired by the depth of self-care knowledge in the community—people here […]
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America Sings the Blues
A look at the best and worst of the year…so far
Well, we’re already halfway through the year, which has somehow felt like it’s lasted somewhere between two weeks and five hundred thousand years. I suppose this is as good a time as any to do a brief check-in of the best and worst movies and shows of 2025…so far. Even though some of these will […]
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In Praise of Getting Off the Couch
Netflix is nice, but human-to-human interaction can change your life
Rather than wax eloquent on the benefits of going to social gatherings, being vulnerable and experiencing life outside of your comfort zone, I actually got off my couch and attended (or attempted to attend) four different group activities in Central Oregon. It sounds cliché to say that these experiences changed my life, and yet they […]
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Building Connections Through Books
What we read can lead to improved humanity
Last week, in the span of a few days, my daughter and two friends reached out, asking, “What should I read next?” This isn’t the first time I’ve been asked for a book recommendation. I do work in a bookstore, after all, and yet, each time, I get a little thrill. Books are a matter […]
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“Welcome the Night”
High Desert Museum celebrates critters of the night
Several ecosystems begin to stir on land and in the air once the sun goes down. Most people don’t notice or are surrounded by too much artificial light to witness it. The High Desert Museum is offering a chance to “Welcome the Night.” The family friendly event on July 16 is an opportunity to discover […]
