The Source ‘Daily’?

Who says print media — particularly that which is independently owned — has gone the way of Crystal Pepsi, Zima and other relics of the late millennium?

As you can glimpse on the new billboard on NE Revere Avenue near the Bend Parkway on-ramp — or, more conveniently, right here at bendsource.com, we’ve initiated a daily digital publishing model, delivering news, culture, food and events as they happen.

At a time when many local newsrooms are shrinking, the Source is investing in independent journalism that remains free and accessible to the community, supported in part by the Lay It Out Foundation. Expect in-depth storytelling, thoughtful reporting, diligent fact-checking and a perspective grounded in equity, curiosity and local connection.

“Access to free, local news matters — especially in a place like Bend that’s changing as quickly as it is,” says Aaron Switzer, publisher and founder of the Source. “This is about showing up every day with reporting people can trust.”

Clayton Franke, who covers city hall and urban development, signed on with the Lay It Out Foundation, whose stories are published in the Source, in March 2026, shortly after Jesse Coronado joined the Source ranks as calendar editor and reporter.

“I never thought I’d see myself on a billboard — as a newspaper reporter,” Franke said, reclining in his office chair, hands laced behind his head. “I wish I would have worn a slightly brighter shirt.”

Yours truly has been producing long-form, investigative reportage since joining in March 2025. Franke and I are supported by the Lay It Out Foundation, which enjoys a nonprofit donor model.
“We’re not changing who we are — we’re changing how we show up,” said Switzer. “Bend doesn’t wait a week for news anymore. Neither should our readers.”

New stories are now published every day right here, with daily newsletters including the Cascades Reader highlighting the latest reporting and updates. While expanding its digital presence, the Source will continue to publish its weekly print edition, maintaining the in-depth storytelling and cultural coverage we’re known for. Signature features and community-driven content — including favorites like the Restaurant Guide, the Summer Guide, and the Best of Central Oregon — remain a core part of the publication.

Readers can also subscribe to specialty newsletters focused on local food and drink, business news, and events happening across Central Oregon. Locals and visitors can follow along on social media for real-time coverage as stories develop.

This evolution allows the Source to do both: keep pace with news in real time while continuing to deliver the deeper, creative coverage readers expect each week.

The Source, headquartered in downtown Bend, was founded in 1997 and remains independently owned by Aaron and Angela Switzer, serving Central Oregon with trusted coverage of local news, arts, music, food, outdoors and community issues.