Deschutes County is NOT ready for Phase Two re-opening

This will probably ruffle some feathers and rub some people the wrong way, but with Deschutes County applying for Phase Two re-opening from the COVID-19 pandemic lockdown this week, I just have to say that I do not believe the County should be opening. In fact, I don’t believe Deschutes … Continue reading

Affordability and housing in Bend: Two viewpoints

Two articles in recent weeks on affordability in Bend, both in wages and housing, present a pretty stark difference in viewpoints on where Bend is at, economically, these days. Compare and contrast… First, from CNBC: Bend, Oregon, is becoming a commuter town for Silicon Valley despite the 10-hour drive While most … Continue reading

The Tourism Issue

This summer seems to have been the tipping point for tourism in Bend—namely, that we are starting to see backlash against the number of tourists and the possibility is being raised that too much tourism is a bad thing for Bend. Not that local negativity against tourism is a new … Continue reading

Bend Startup Weekend

Seven new local companies – one vying for title at Global Startup Battle Just before the Thanksgiving holiday, Bend Startup Weekend held its first event gathering more than 100 participants. After hearing several pitches From those, 7 teams formed. One team (H20 Photo Project) has advanced to the Global Startup … Continue reading

Cary’s Produce Patch – Going out of business

Last night I received an email from Cary’s Produce Patch. While it’s no surprise that it’s the end of the season for fresh produce (frost on the ground this morning!) I was bummed to learn they won’t be back next year. It is with sadness & great relief; we have … Continue reading

Riley’s Market is closing

Riley’s Market is the lone grocery store/deli over in NorthWest Crossing, and will be closing after this Saturday (the end of July). It’s in today’s Bulletin. Kacy Logeais, who opened the store in September 2007 with her husband, Shain, said part of the closure is related to debt on the … Continue reading

2nd Street Theater is closing

More sucky local economy news: The Source breaks the news today that the 2nd Street Theater is closing. I just got word that, after nine years as a main player in Central Oregon’s theatrical world, 2nd Street Theater will be closing for good following the upcoming run of Harvey. “It … Continue reading

Living Local coupon book

There’s been something of a "local economy" movement floating around lately ("make local habit" is the prominent phrase I keep seeing) and now there’s a local coupon book that is embracing that philosophy. It’s called Living Local: A Community Coupon Book for Central Oregon, and has been out since May … Continue reading

Working Wonders is closing, Oct. 4

As many have probably heard, Working Wonders Children’s Museum in the Old Mill District is closing, effective October 4th (Saturday, October 3rd will be their last day). They weren’t able to meet their fundraising goals (some $200,000, I heard on the news), and the overall model apparently isn’t financially viable. … Continue reading