It’s an early spring morning, pre-dawn. The air is still, not a breath of wind stirs the sagebrush. The waning moon is a bright sliver in the eastern sky, but soon to be obscured by the dawn’s early light. The thermometer reads 25 degrees Fahrenheit but it feels colder in the morning darkness. I’ve been […]
Outside
Bend Bike Festival Rides in with Community, Sustainability and Fun
Bike lovers and outdoor enthusiasts will gather for the inaugural Bend Bike Festival taking place on April 25-27. The main festivities, including the popular gear swap, happen Saturday from 9am-5pm and Sunday from 9am-4pm at The Pavilion in Bend. The festival builds on the long-standing Bend Bike Swap, a major fundraiser for Bend Endurance Academy, […]
Five Colorful Birds to View this Spring
Some birds are showier, more colorful and arguably prettier than others. And while experienced birders get excited about all sorts of gray-coated, similar-sounding, hard-to-identify birds โ the avian equivalent of deep tracks โ others might prefer to focus on the greatest hits. For those folks, it’s time to look to the trees and the sky, […]
Run Into Spring: The Salmon Run Returns for its 37th Year
Spring has officially arrived in Central Oregon — and with it, race season. One of Bend’s longest-running traditions, the 37th annual Salmon Run, kicks off the season with scenic routes, community spirit and a good cause. Whether you’re chasing a PR or simply soaking up the spring sunshine, the Salmon Run is a chance to […]
Photographing Desert Wildlife
Eastern Oregon’s high desert is a land of striking contrasts โ sunbaked plateaus meet rugged rimrock, deep canyons surround rushing rivers and green meadows and marshes thrive next to miles of sagebrush. It’s a place of untamed beauty, where wildlife moves with the seasonal rhythms of the land. Capturing compelling images here requires more than […]
Grow, Create, Inspire: Home and Garden Workshops This Spring
Spring is the perfect time to try something new and get creative. Whether you’re interested in gardening, crafting or hands-on DIY projects, these upcoming workshops and events offer a great way to learn and embrace spring while adding creativity to your home and garden. The Cottage Craft Club Bring a craft, in-progress project or garments […]
Wildfire Wise, Wildlife Friendly: Smart Landscaping
Central Oregonians today are navigating a difficult balance between home fire protection and local wildlife habitats. Stunning landscapes and abundant wildlife were why many of us relocated to this unique area. Those who love insects and birds take it further by planting and retaining wildlife-nurturing native shrubs and wildflowers. Research shows native plants support significantly […]
A Quarter Century of Finders Keepers on the Coast
As someone who loves exploring all the natural beauty and unique activities that Oregon has to offer, I flogged myself for not even being aware of the Finders Keepers program in the central coastal town of Lincoln City, which lies four hours from Bend by car. Finders Keepers has been attracting beachcombers, whale watchers, wave […]
Climate’s Toll: Birds on the Brink
In June 2021, a devastating heat wave scorched the Pacific Northwest, with temperatures soaring from 108ยฐ to 121ยฐF. In Central Oregon, Pelton Dam on the Deschutes River reached 119ยฐF. The impact devastated wildlife, with birds among the hardest hit. Babies leaped from nests in droves, overwhelming wildlife rehabilitation centers across the region. As climate patterns […]
Cork & Barrelโs Winemaker Series Blends Fine Wine and Local Cuisine
Wine and food lovers can indulge in intimate dining experiences through the Cork & Barrel Winemaker Dinner series โ a collection of exclusive events where celebrated wineries, local chefs and creative menus come together at unique venues. Each dinner offers an opportunity to savor expertly paired multi-course meals while engaging with winemakers and winery owners […]

