Bend’s True Property Value: Its People

With the chaos of the world accessible at our fingertips, it’s easy to get detached from what is right in front of us, something special. We don’t just enjoy the mountains, the Deschutes and the public lands that surround us, we also benefit from those who bind us together. Built by locals, newcomers and everyone in between, this article is about those who have had an outsized impact on life here in Bend. But first, let’s talk about human connection.

Since 1938, a Harvard study has followed 724 people’s lives. The study keeps landing on the same conclusion: close relationships are the strongest predictor of happiness and physical health, more than money, fame, or IQ (Harvard Health, 2023). Almost a century of happiness research shows that everyday interactions with family, friends and quick chats with strangers are the best ingredients to a good life (NYT, 2025). Psychologists also found that people who had the same piece of chocolate at the same time as someone else rated it as richer and more intense than people who tasted it alone (Psychological Science, 2014). If a single bite of chocolate becomes more meaningful when it’s shared, let me tell you about the people who are creating meaningful places in Bend.

I’ll start with John Kish of Greenhouse Cabaret. He’s built a beautiful place for the theater community. He grew up in Oregon, moved to New York City and left Broadway to bring that magic back to Bend. His most recent production of Once, the Musical sold out. One of his biggest fans, Laura Thompson, is behind something major for the growing arts community here with the Central Oregon Center for Performing Arts.

Big reader? Forget Amazon. Just call Dudley’s and order that book. It will be there in a couple of days and you can drop in to chat with Tom or Amy. That experience alone is worth more than the dollars you save when a package arrives at your door (in five days).

Like to chat sports? Go have lunch at Cuba Kitchen and talk with Chris about any team in the NFL. More of a music person? The Commonwealth Pub has music seven nights a week, thanks to Dan. Nearby you have the Volcanic Theatre Pub. It’s the best time of year to see a show there. Like a cheese plate? Drop by Wild Petals and chat with Nancy. You’ll walk away happy and ready to host.

I’m grateful to have wonderful neighbors. They organize a weekly happy hour and welcome everyone. Thank you Jane, Jim, Catherine, Andy, Carolyn. Your hospitality spans four decades and it’s contagious. This town is built on people like you who celebrate the shared experience.

Bend’s beauty doesn’t come from its scenery alone. It’s multiplied by the laughter, music and conversations we share, indoors and out. Each time we show up for one another, this town grows closer to what we all imagine it can be. Shared experiences don’t just amplify life, they’re the whole point.

This article appears in the Source November 20, 2025.