Ah, winter…that time of year when we’re often stuck inside waaayy more than we’d like. Sure, those studded tires are going to get you around when the snow and ice comes around, but once in a while the weather gets so bad that there’s nothing else to do besides hole up at home. But wait! […]
Bend News
“Hopelessness is not a strategy for making a difference”
The recent political season has left many disheartened and in need of encouragement. Meanwhile, others are ready for action but unsure what steps to take next. Cue the Central Oregon Social Justice Center, a great resource for taking steps toward a better future and protecting civil liberties. Its weekly newsletter offers some informative meetings and […]
Celebrating a Century
Deschutes County is Oregon’s youngest county, but this month, it’s still turning the ripe old age of 100. It was 1914 when voters approved separating a portion of Crook County—itself part of the giant Wasco County until 1882— to form Jefferson County. In 1916, voters approved the creation of Deschutes County from Crook County. Throughout […]
Problems on the Plaza
In 2010, the historic Rademacher House—home to Bend’s first mayor—was the site of Arts Central’s educational programming. That year, the organization opted to close down classes in the space, after “a vile act was committed in full view on the porch.” Inside, a group of young children were gathered for an arts class when the […]
Wonderful Spirits
Everyone is looking for something different in their Christmas and the holiday season in general. For some, it’s a way to get some time off of school or work, and for others it’s a time to reflect on what they’re grateful for while surrounded by friends and family. The holidays can also be a rough […]
Should You or Shouldn’t You?
It’s Christmas morning. Your entire extended family—including your parents and grandparents, aunts and uncles, and even cousins whose names you can’t remember— have traveled great distances to come together and celebrate. You have prepared yourself in advance by perfecting the appearance of the natural looking smile and rehearsing the ever-enthusiastic “Thank you!” The room is […]
Land of the Spotted Cow
Next up in beer reviewer Kevin Gifford’s beer trek across the nation: Wisconsin. It feels, in modern-day Bend (and Portland for that matter), that Boneyard’s RPM IPA is available at every establishment that has a liquor license. It’s ubiquitous. And across the entire state of Wisconsin—from the college bars of Madison to the rural supper […]
Letters 12/7-12/14
In Response to, “Inside the Malheur Trail,” (11/9) Thank you for your invitation to respond to the insider perspective. The well written article about how the verdict was decided clarified for me the absolute insanity of our national legal system that permits individuals to shirk responsibility for engaging in behaviors that created millions of dollars […]
Natural World: Who’s In Your Wood Shed?
One of the things I enjoy about burning wood to keep my home warm is the added enjoyment I have watching who and what falls out as I put the wood in the wheelbarrow. When I’m burning mixed conifer, wood-boring beetles seem to be the most abundant insects that fall out of the firewood, and […]
Winter Wheels
When the snow hits the ground, it doesn’t mean your bike tires have to leave it. Between the potentially slippery roads, the restrictive snowfall and the unpleasant chill, it seems like an easy choice for cycling commuters to store away their bicycles for the season. Handling winter weather can be difficult, but it’s not impossible. […]

