Good morning, Bend.

On Dec. 31, Mt. Bachelor ski patrol airlifted a minor from the slopes to St. Charles for treatment — her condition remained unknown.

La Pine dad Steve Fuller invented the hat cinch to keep cowboy hats on during rodeos; the product was tested at the National Finals Rodeo (Las Vegas) last December and is sold direct as well as by retail partners like Teskey’s Western Store.

Fuller hopes to grow his brand.

On Jan. 2, two local businesses partnered in Bend for a free coffee giveaway when Peak Euro Auto Repair covered the first 100 cups sold at Thump Coffee; more customer events are scheduled later this year.

Redmond Municipal Airport is seeking local businesses to join non-exclusive food, beverage, retail, and vending concession opportunities.

The airport will host a pre-proposal conference on Friday, Jan. 9 (11:00 a.m.) at its terminal conference room, and proposals are due by March 31 via BidLocker.

During the recent First Friday Art Walk in downtown Bend, Red Chair Gallery held its final in-person event after 16 years as its owner prepared to retire, leaving the artists to continue showcasing their work online.

BendFilm announced Friday that Giancarlo Gatto stepped down as executive director after two years.

A new three-member team (Christina Rosetti, Clay Pruitt, and Selin Sevinç) has taken over and will guide the organization as it builds on a record-breaking festival last fall.

Mt. Bachelor is hosting free whitebark pine conservation events next week to teach outdoor enthusiasts about protecting this threatened species.

Attend a discussion at UPP Liquids in Bend on Jan. 8 from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. + a lunch and guided ski and snowboard tour on Jan. 9 from 12:00 to 3:00 p.m. on the slopes.

Redmond Municipal Airport seeks local food vendors to shape new dining options + an open house is set for Jan.

9 from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Local businesses can submit proposals for eateries as part of the airport’s expansion, with new concessions set to open in 2027.

Starting Jan. 4, Deschutes County will install signage on Old Bend-Redmond Highway, S Canal Boulevard, and O.B.

Riley Road from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday to Friday, causing delays up to 20 minutes while projects near La Pine, Redmond Wetlands, and on U.S. 97 prompt detours—drivers should plan accordingly.

Rep. Bentz met with local health providers to discuss rising insurance costs, Medicaid funding concerns and upcoming ACA changes in his district.

He noted Oregon’s $197.3 million rural health funding and potential Medicaid work requirements that could affect patient numbers and hospital finances.

Gino Vannelli Concert

8-10 p.m. — Oxford Hotel Bend — Ticket price unknown — Experience the timeless jazz vocals of Gino Vannelli at this unique venue.

Certified Irrigation Contractor (CIC) Class

8 AM - 4 PM — Ewing Outdoor Supply — Exam registration required (additional fee) — Gain essential skills for irrigation contract execution with provided lunch.

Bend Thirsty Third Thursday Networking

4-6 p.m. — The Cellar — First drink free for registered attendees — Network with design and construction professionals in a relaxed atmosphere.

Maxwell Friedman Group Concert

7 p.m. — McMenamins Old St. Francis School — $19.25 — Enjoy an evening of live music in a vibrant local venue.

CORK Mom Squad Running Group

9-10 a.m. — Miller's Landing Park — Free entry — A welcoming running group for moms of all running levels to connect and share experiences while staying active.

Comedy Night with Anthony Poponi

8-9 p.m. — Bangers & Brews Westside Bend Oregon — Ticket price not listed — Enjoy a night filled with sharp wit and quick crowd work from comedian Anthony Poponi.

Sierra Nevada Red Fox Discovery Night

7-8:30 p.m. — Tower Theatre — Free entry — Discover the elusive Sierra Nevada red fox with expert insights and captivating field stories.

Archery Summit Wine Dinner

5-9 p.m. — Tetherow Resort — Cost varies — Experience a multi-course dinner paired with exceptional wines amid the winter charm of Bend.

Western Sky Choir Concert

3-7 p.m. — Open Space Event Studios — Refunds up to 7 days before event — Enjoy a vibrant concert featuring hits from Beyoncé, Ariana Grande, and Olivia Rodrigo.