saturday 4
For the second year in a row, Empty Space is playing the Moon on the 4th of July in the shadow of Pilot Butte as it erupts in fireworks. This time around, the band is teaming up with the weirdly danceable grooves of Ruins of Ooah, allowing you to celebrate your country's independence by shaking your ass off. 9pm. $5. Silver Moon Brewery, 24 NW Greenwood Ave.
Pet Parade
saturday 4
Start out the fourth right and prepare to say, "awwww," by heading to downtown Bend for this annual display of cute kids and their equally adorable pets. You'll be sure to see a variety of animals, including dogs, llamas, horses, lizards, goats, and at least a few stuffed animals at this annual tradition. Show up a bit early to snag a good viewing location. No registration is required; participants need only show up with their special pets. Just remember to leave the rabbits and cats at home...isn't it kind of sad that they have to even say that? 10am. Wall St, next to School Admin Building.
WebCyclery Firecracker 100 Road Bike Ride
saturday 4
This ride is booked as a "casual" 100km ride. Well, yeah, there's hardly anything casual about riding 100km, unless it's all downhill...and in a car. But there's plenty of riders capable of that sort of mileage (or kilometerage) here in Bend, which is why the fundraiser for Partners in Care has become such a popular annual event. Leaves from the power station parking lot at the NW corner of Alfalfa Market Rd and Johnson Ranch Rd. 8am Saturday, Jul 4. 318-6188. $15 min. donation.
The Abyssinians & Etana
tuesday 7
It's time to bust out your Jamaican braid hats - actually don't, please don't. Vocal roots-reggae trio the Abyssinians are joined by reggae singer/songwriter Etana on their 2009 tour, which is stopping off at the Old Stone. Most know The Abyssinians for their Rastafarian lyrics and tight harmonies and you might, too. 9pm. $12/adv, $15/day of show. Old Stone Church, 157 NW Franklin Ave.
Sing Out for Single-Payer Healthcare
wednesday 8
Maybe you hadn't heard (or have been too preoccupied with your MJ mourning to care), but there's a lot of talk going on right now about healthcare, which is what this free event is focused on bringing attention to. This musical event is headlined by Anne Feeney, the legendary folk singer and labor activist but also includes the music of David Rovics, Jason Luckett, Pat Dodd, Citizen's Band and others. Free. 7pm, Pioneer Park 1565 NW Wall St.
Poetry Slam
wednesday 8
Rarely a month passes without us recommending you check out the Poetry Slam. And we're going to keep hounding you until you check out our local talent, dag nabbit! Sign-ups at 7pm. Slam begins at 8pm. Silver Moon Brewery, 24 NW Greenwood Ave.
Suzanne Burns Book Release Party
thursday 9
Many of you dear readers know that Suzanne Burns is a contributor to this paper, right? Well, did you know she also has a book of short stories coming out? Celebrate the release of Burns' Misfits and Other Heroes in style at this party. Check back next week for a review of the book.
Also celebrating a new release is Matt Love with Super Sunday in Newport: Notes From My First Year in Town. 7pm Thursday, Jul 9. Between the Covers, 645 NW Delaware Ave. 385-4766.
Moonwalk
thursday 9
You didn't think our community could possibly let the passing of Michael Jackson go by without some sort of don't-stop-'till-you-get-enough dance party, did you? Of course not, and thankfully so. The Silver Moon is projecting both the "Thriller" video and Moonwalker on a big screen while MC Mystic pumps out the MJ and you try not to cry. By the end of this event you'll have forgotten all about the supermarket tabloid Michael and only remember the white-gloved pop-star...we hope. $3. 9pm. Silver Moon Brewing Co. 24 NW Greenwood Ave.
Fareed Haque and the Flat Earth Ensemble
thursday 9
The first Munch and Music is here! After a seemingly late arrival, we know that summer is upon us when it's time for this annual event series. Get a great bite to eat and listen to the world and funk music of Fareed Haque and his jam band that will be sure to get your body moving and grooving. 5:30pm-9:30pm. Free. Drake Park.
