As of Monday, Aug. 25, the fast-moving Flat Fire in Central Oregon was 5% contained. Eric Perkins, operations section chief for the Oregon Department of Forestry, reported on Monday morning that the fire stopped advancing forward. “Lots of structures in along this southern end of the fire as it moves into town … that fire […]
Flat Fire Forces Evacuations
Posted inColumns
Rewilding Words
I recently came across the word “landholder,” an indigenous term for tree. How magical! An expression that speaks in the tongue of the thing itself. How can we reshape our daily language to reflect that notion, to get us out of our word silos? It strikes me that maintaining the diversity of language guards the […]
Posted inFood & Drink
Ballers & Brews Opens Sept. 21
Ballers & Brews is opening next month in northeast Bend. It’s a mash-up of pickleball courts, cocktails and cravings. Owner Leslie Koegler is offering more than another food truck lot. There will be two covered pickleball courts that can be used year-round. In the winter, a vinyl wrap will enclose the heated courts. Court rentals […]
Posted inBusiness News
Grant Applications to Open Sept. 15
The Land and Water Conservation Fund Grant Program (LWCF) will start accepting applications Sept. 15 for the approximately $8 million in funds for the 2025 grant cycle. Applications are due by Nov. 17. The LWCF is a federally funded reimbursement grant program that provides matching grants to state and local governments for land acquisition, development […]
Posted inNews
Health Care Costs to Surge for Central Oregon Families
More than 12,000 families in Deschutes County face an annual average $1,300 increase in health care costs as federal rule changes and looming budget cuts threaten to strip coverage from over a million Oregonians. Oregon’s Medicaid program is “the backbone of our health care system,” explained Tami Cline, President of the Oregon Nurses Association in […]
Posted inNews
Flat Fire Triggers Evacuation Notices
On Friday, Aug. 22, the Oregon State Fire Marshal mobilized three structural task forces and its Red Incident Management Team to the Flat Fire burning in Jefferson County. The fire, which started Thursday, is burning west of Culver, prompting level 1, 2 and 3 evacuation notices. Gusty winds, low humidity and warm temperatures caused the […]
Posted inTake Me Home
Smells Like a Sale
When it comes to selling your home, you’ve probably thought about fresh paint, staging, and curb appeal. But here’s a secret weapon most sellers overlook- scent. The moment a buyer steps inside a home, their brain begins processing not just what they see, but what they smell. A welcoming scent can create an instant emotional connection. […]
Posted inBusiness News
Oregon Taxpayers Encouraged to Take Survey
The Oregon Department of Revenue is encouraging Oregon taxpayers to participate in an anonymous IRS feedback survey on tax preparation and filing options, which will run through September 2, 2025. Oregon is one of 25 states that partnered with the IRS to provide a free option for taxpayers to file tax year 2024 returns electronically […]
Posted inBusiness News
Central Oregon Salsa Dance Fundraiser
Get ready to move for a great cause! Join NAMI Central Oregon for an evening of dancing, community, and connection—all to support free mental health programs in our region. What: NAMI Central Oregon Salsa Dance FundraiserCost: $75 – Purchase tickets here When: Friday, September 19, 2025 | 6–9 PMWhere: Hollinshead Barn, 1235 NE Jones Rd, Bend, OR 97701 We’re thrilled to […]
Posted inBusiness News
Terry Healey to Discuss his book “The Resilience Mindset”
Roundabout Books will host Bendite Terry Healey to discuss his new book, “The Resilience Mindset”, written for anyone who is feeling marginalized or facing challenges who is looking for stronger coping skills. “The Resilience Mindset” offers an actionable framework to overcome adversity and create a more fulfilling life. The event takes place at Roundabout Books […]