Good morning, Bend.

During Labor Day weekend, smoky skies and poor air quality have reduced business for local food trucks in Central Oregon.

Some vendors now rely on take-out orders—while facing challenges as fewer customers come out.

Deschutes Land Trust is assessing damage from the Flat Fire that burned over 23,000 acres and affected Aspen Hollow, Rimrock Ranch and Whychus Canyon Preserves—officials reported that five homes were destroyed and 2,319 were threatened as teams plan next steps for recovery.

Today, the Joint Special Session Committee in Bend took public comments on Governor Tina Kotek’s transportation funding bills, including HB3991 that will raise the gas tax and add a road usage charge for electric vehicles.

Over 980 written comments were submitted + over 900 opposed the proposal, and after a 7-5 vote the bill will move to the House floor for a full vote.

The Oregon State University Extension Service has released fall gardening tips for local gardeners this September that include dividing peonies and iris, planting bulbs like daffodils, tulips and crocus, and advising to bring green tomatoes indoors if frost threatens—helping ensure plants are ready for cooler weather.

Christmas in July with Central Oregon Holiday Toy Drive Santa

Central Oregon Holiday Toy Drive has taken over for the Toys for Tots which has suspended operations in Central Oregon and Marines from MCL 1308 with support from Summit Health are taking over with our Santa on the 3rd, 10th, 17th, 24th, 31st of July and 7 of August every Thursday at 5:00 pm to 9:00 pm BRING A TOY PLEASE its needed

Child Abuse Awareness Training

5:30-7 p.m. — Sisters Library — Free entry — Learn to recognize child abuse signs and prevention strategies for community protection.

Worthy Brewing Summer Concert Series

7:30-9:30 p.m. — Worthy Brewing Company — Free entry — Enjoy live music every Wednesday night in the heart of Bend.

Party Latino @ The Capitol

8:30-11:30 p.m. — The Capitol — Free entry — Experience the vibrant energy of Latino music and dance with a Bachata lesson and DJ entertainment.

First Friday Art Walk

5-8 p.m. — Downtown Bend Business Association — Free entry — Experience the vibrant monthly celebration of art and community in charming downtown Bend.

Principles of Power Workshop

4 PM – 12 AM — 20123 Cox Ln, Bend, OR — Check event page for costs — Explore the fundamentals of power training to enhance your vitality and independence.

Sunday Morning Worship Service

10-11:30 a.m. — Boys and Girls Club — Free entry — Experience worship, biblical study, and community fellowship in downtown Bend.

Beertown Comedy Open Mic

6:30-9 p.m. — Silver Moon Brewing — Free entry — Experience laughter and local talent at Bend's top open mic night.

Kindred Craft Event

5-8 p.m. — UPP Liquids — Free entry — Celebrate community with local brewers, live music, and free food and drinks.

2025 Oregon Festival of Cars

Sept 12-14 — Deschutes Historical Museum — $15-$75 — Celebrate car culture with a weekend showcasing sports and enthusiast cars in a relaxed atmosphere.

PorchFest

3-9 p.m. — Discovery Corner Plaza — Free entry — Celebrate community spirit with live local music and food at this family-friendly festival.