Good morning, Bend.

Central Oregon Partnerships for Youth, part of the Deschutes County Sheriff's Office, is hosting a 3.5-hour training class on Jan.

17 to prepare volunteers as mentors for children with incarcerated parents. Participants will learn program policies, mentoring techniques and the effects of incarceration on families.

From Jan. 8 to 14, live music events will take place at local Bend venues, ranging from open mic sessions to performances by local singer-songwriters at The Winery, The Lot, Silver Moon Brewing, and other spots — check local schedules for details.

AAA Oregon/Idaho reported that Bend’s gas prices fell to $3.27 a gallon this week, and Oregon+Washington saw the nation’s largest declines as lower demand and winter fuel blends drove down costs.

Births at St. Charles Heath System increased in 2025 to 2,490 at its Bend and Madras hospitals + a record high for the decade, even as statewide and national birth rates declined.

Local experts credit population growth for driving the increase.

A list of six cheap eats in Bend features spots like Reed Crossing Market, Americana Burger, I Love Ceviche, Spork, Wildwood and Bangers and Brews (each featuring menu items priced between $4 and $13) so locals can enjoy affordable meals almost any day.

Hoodoo Ski Area will open tomorrow in Sisters with lifts running 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. It forecasts up to 50 inches of snow this week and plans for Thrifty Thursday lift ticket pricing on Jan.

8 — more details will be on hoodoo.com.

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.

Darkness to Light Stewards of Children Training

5:30-8 p.m. — Deschutes Children's Foundation - Rosie Bareis Community Campus — Free entry — Learn vital skills for preventing child sexual abuse in your community.