Good morning, Bend.

Bend’s local pizzeria, part of a larger franchise, was named as one of four Oregon spots ranked among America’s best by the 50 Top Pizza Guide.

The accolade highlights the growing reputation of our local pies among diners across the region.

Former Central Oregon Daily News photojournalist Steve Kaufmann won a Regional Edward R.

Murrow Award for his series Public Lands are for Everybody, which highlights diversity and accessibility on public lands. His work is now under consideration for a National Murrow Award.

Scientists predict a strong El Niño may affect Oregon's fall and winter weather, bringing either warmer, drier conditions or heavier rains.

The event is expected to develop by July and could lower next winter's snowpack and reservoir levels.

LivingOregon is offering a Summer EBT program that will give $120 per child to low-income families.

Funds will be loaded automatically onto Oregon Trail Cards starting Thursday, June 4—families on SNAP, Medicaid, or in foster care qualify while other households may apply until Sept. 1.

New wildfire-resistant building standards are in effect across Bend, Sisters and Deschutes County and let homeowners install fire-hardened materials without HOA interference.

The rules allow installation unless a written denial is provided within 90 days and have the support of local builders and safety experts.

Caldera junior Brooke Chapin and Mountain View sophomore Chase Nosler were named Athletes of the Week for May 11-16 — Chapin struck out 14 batters for a 7-6 win while Nosler ran a 10.59-second 100-meter dash on May 22; this is the final accolade of the high school season.

Worthy Brewing Farmers Market

10 AM – 2 PM — Worthy Brewing Company — Free entry — Explore local produce, unique products, and enjoy live music while sipping on beer.

Writer's Workshop

6-8 p.m. — Café des Chutes — $5 cash or Venmo — Engage in a monthly writing workshop with prompts and peer feedback.

Lord Huron Concert

7-8:30 p.m. — Hayden Homes Amphitheater — Ticket prices vary — Experience the enchanting sounds of Lord Huron in a beautiful outdoor setting.

Summer Kickoff BBQ

4-6 p.m. — Miller's Landing Park — Free entry — Celebrate the summer with a casual BBQ featuring good food and cold drinks.

2026 Oregon Archaeology Roadshow: The Archaeology of Fire and Water

11 AM – 3 PM — Deschutes Historical Museum — Free entry — Celebrate the archaeology and heritage of Oregon with interactive exhibits and activities focused on fire and water.

Badass Sound Bath

6:30-7:30 p.m. — CONTINUUM, A School of Shadow Yoga Bend Oregon — Cost varies — Experience a bold twist on relaxation through sound and movement that empowers and rejuvenates.

Sagebrush Social

5-7 p.m. — Miller's Landing Park — Free entry — Celebrate high desert conservation with activities and networking in Bend.

Thursday Night Live at Mountain Burger

6-8 p.m. — Mountain Burger — Free entry — Enjoy great music by Evan Mullins while savoring delicious food in a lively atmosphere.

Picnic With Alpacas on a Working Alpaca Farm

12:30 p.m. — Tumalo Coffeehouse — Age 2+ welcome, up to 8 guests — Enjoy a delightful picnic experience surrounded by friendly alpacas.

Yoga for Sustainable Mobility

8:30-10 a.m. — Drake Park, 777 NW Riverside Blvd, Bend, OR — Paid parking — Experience a mobility-focused yoga class to enhance strength and flexibility.