Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer or you haven’t purchased a home in the last few years, making such an important decision regarding homeownership requires careful consideration of the “carrying costs” so that we may reap the benefits of home ownership over the long term. Beyond the purchase price, there are monthly mortgage payments, and perhaps […]
Considering the Cost of Homeowner’s Insurance in Central Oregon
Posted inFilm
The Best Fest in the Northwest
To try and describe the exact vibe of the Bend Film Festival is nearly impossible because no two have ever been the same…and I should know because I’ve seen at least one movie at every fest since the first one in 2003. That year, I sat in a frigid Midtown Ballroom and watched a midnight […]
Posted inMusic
Band Brings its ‘Dashboard Heat’ to Bend
Here is a collection of words describing Smokey Bright’s music culled from various sources quoted on the band’s website: “Smokey Brights is one of the most exciting rock groups in the Emerald City. One part Fleetwood Mac (without the turmoil) and one part something all their own.” “Insane charm.” “… plays rock in its truest, […]
Posted inLocal News
Rescued Poodles Up for Adoption
The Humane Society of Central Oregon (HSCO) has been caring for more than 40 poodles rescued from a property in Alfalfa in early September. The dog’s owner, Lorinda Maxwell, is facing 49 counts of felony animal neglect. On Sept. 5, deputies and Animal Control Officers served a search warrant at Maxwell’s home on Elk Lane. […]
Posted inLocal News
Dr. Angeles, MD, FACS
Dr. Adam Angeles, board-certified plastic surgeon, wound specialist and founder of the Angeles Wound Care Institute, a division of Bend Plastic Surgery, partners with Angel Flight West to bring advanced wound care services directly to patients in remote Oregon communities with no means of transportation to specialty clinics. Angel Flight West is a nonprofit organization […]
Posted inMovies
Post-Modern Romance
One of those little cliche nuggets of wisdom about cinema that people like to bandy around has been stuck in my head after watching two romances back to back this week: movies are a visual medium. Obviously, that is a true statement because the illusion of a motion picture doesn’t even work unless you are […]
Posted inColumns
A Few More Love Lessons
As you probably know, love is my favorite topic. I need to keep it in the front of my mind or it slips to the back of it. There are tons of things that are important in life. Tons! Food regularly. Education, ideally forever. A job, to pay for much of what we need and want, […]
Posted inCulture
Black Currant Releases New LP, ‘Fast Ceremony’
Bend artist, Kelly Martin of Black Currant, released her new LP, “Fast Ceremony,” on Sept. 21. Her new release is a joining of musical antitheses: pop and experimental, dark and danceable, joyous and haunting. By adding urgent, percussive synthesizer rhythms, she forms a backdrop to ethereal vocals and melodies, which at times may best be […]
Posted inFood & Drink
Eat Pizza, Share Stories, Enjoy Life at Boone Dog in Sisters
Wander into The Barn in Sisters on a cool autumn evening and the scene feels a little like a small town block party with better food. Families sprawl out near the playground at the outdoor tables, kids dart around with a slice of pizza in one hand and a juice box in the other, and […]
Posted inBusiness News
Governor Proclaims Oct. 16-19 as Days of Earthquake Preparedness
Governor Tina Kotek has issued an official proclamation recognizing October 16–19, 2025,as a time for statewide earthquake preparedness and resilience-building activities. The proclamation supports two key initiatives led by the Oregon Department of Emergency Management (OEM): the Great Oregon ShakeOut and the Great Oregon Camp-In. The proclamation emphasizes that “the safety and resilience of Oregonians […]