Good morning, Bend.

Boy Scout Troop 25 will lead a flag installation along the Bend Pet Parade route Saturday to honor veterans on Fourth of July and the nation’s 250th birthday.

The display will begin at the Bend Heroes Memorial at Brooks Park and continue on Veterans Memorial Bridge in downtown Bend.

The Forge Community Iceplex has raised about $10M and is seeking another $30M to build Central Oregon’s first year-round indoor ice facility on a 6.8-acre site in northeast Bend (across from Les Schwab headquarters).

The nonprofit hopes to secure these funds within one year before construction begins.

Bend’s Park and Recreation District is planning an overhaul of Whitewater Park to address safety and erosion — updating the river wave, tubing, and fish passage channel.

Landscape architect Ian Isaacson will update the board on July 21 as planning for the $15.3M project continues.

Kefi Mediterranean on Bend’s north end is up for sale after 5½ years in business—owner Nick Stanitsas is moving back to California for family reasons and hopes the new buyer preserves the Kefi concept while the restaurant remains open as usual despite a holiday weekend closure.

Deschutes Historical Museum in Bend features a new exhibit 'The Moments That Made US,' celebrating 250 years of US history & civil rights with items like Myrlie Evers-Williams' Hammond organ.

The gallery is open Tues-Sat from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Art renderings for the Empire Ave and 18th Street roundabout are on display at Larkspur Community Center and Scalehouse Annex Gallery from July 3–18 as part of the First Friday Art Walk.

Residents can give feedback on three finalist proposals ahead of a piece chosen for summer 2027 installation.

Biologists reported that the Metolius wolf pack in the Sisters area has not shown pup activity this spring (after its breeding male was killed last year), while the Upper Deschutes pack in the south has likely bred successfully despite vehicle incidents.

The Oregon Health Plan launches a new nutrition benefit to help eligible members buy fruits, vegetables, and pantry staples.

The six-month program—available this month—offers grocery boxes or prepaid cards for those with serious health conditions and low food security.

With Fourth of July fireworks a day away, veterinarians and the Oregon Humane Society warn that loud celebrations may cause pets to panic — boosting lost-pet reports — and advise locals to update pet IDs and secure escape routes to keep animals safe.

Families can enjoy a calm, 10-mile float on the Deschutes from Warm Springs to Trout Creek that offers scenic views and a relaxed outing for toddlers.

Children must wear approved life jackets (required by law) and boater passes are needed for all watercraft users.

Bend Mayor Kebler and City Manager King toured the nearly complete Nine Peaks affordable housing community in east Bend Tuesday — the 45-unit development is accepting applications, features ADA-compliant units and local art, and will open by September with rents starting at $915.

Fourth of July Open House

10 AM – 4 PM — Deschutes Historical Museum — Free admission — Celebrate the 250th Anniversary of independence with games, treats, and the new exhibit showcasing pivotal moments in local history.

Alpaca Piano Picnic

2-3:30 p.m. — Flying Dutchman Alpaca — Ticketed event — Experience a charming outdoor piano concert amidst friendly alpacas and delightful high tea.

Bend Elks & Boss Baseball Summer Camp Week 2

Mon-Fri — Vince Genna Stadium — $200 for the week or $50 per day — Develop baseball skills and enjoy camper activities with local coaches and players.

AJR Concert

6:30-8 p.m. — Hayden Homes Amphitheater — Tickets available online — Experience indie pop sensations AJR as they perform their hits and new tracks.

Munch & Music Concert Series

5:30-9 p.m. — Drake Park — Free entry — Celebrate 35 years of free live music, food vendors, and family fun in the heart of Central Oregon.

Screening of Without a Doubt

9:30 – 10:30 AM — Patagonia Bend — Free entry — Experience a behind-the-scenes look at Braydon Bringhurst’s new film with pastries and exclusive giveaways.

Second Sunday Market at Gathered Wares

10 a.m. – 2 p.m. — Old Iron Works District — Free entry — Celebrate vintage clothing and home goods with local vendors while enjoying live music on vinyl.

Beertown Comedy Open Mic Night

6:30-9 p.m. — Silver Moon Brewing — Free entry — Enjoy a night of laughs at Bend's top-rated open mic for comedy enthusiasts.

Badass Sound Bath

6:30-7:30 p.m. — CONTINUUM, A School of Shadow Yoga Bend Oregon — Cost varies — Experience an empowering sound bath with bold beats and relaxation.

A Bookish Tea Party

1:30 – 3:00 PM — Blissful Spoon & Papillon — Ticket required — Celebrate baking with a delightful tea party featuring sweet and savory treats alongside delightful baking tales.