Good morning, Bend.

Happy Trails Horse Rescue in Bend earned global recognition when the Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries awarded full accreditation earlier this month — confirming it meets strict animal care standards.

Founder Dianne Scott said the review strengthened operations and fostered greater transparency in education programs.

Mark Schuette, 74, lost his license after an uninsured crash in June and now rides an e-bike while facing safety challenges as transit fares will cost $2 starting Feb.

1 plus city officials and the Downtown Bend Business Association work to adjust planning for non-drivers in Bend.

Volunteers at Family Kitchen served meals including shakshuka, eggs, potatoes and bacon and sandwiches on a recent weekday as donations from local businesses helped feed community members.

Administrators also stepped in (short-staffed that day) to keep up with demand amid rising costs.

Natalia Spanos joined Latino Community Association as a 2025 Immigration Law fellow via Equity Corps of Oregon and Ana Bueno became its senior family empowerment manager.

Meanwhile, Andrea Wasilew was named Cascades East Transit's outreach administrator and Emily Morey became chief operating officer at High Plateau Capital LLC.

The iconic show Prince of Egypt will be staged at Ridgeview high school with a live orchestra and elaborate set elements — including pyramids — starting January 2nd; performances run through January 4th and again January 9th-11th, and tickets cost $15.

Mt. Bachelor hosts festive events from Dec.

27 to 31 (cookie decorating at West Village Lodge, early ups and a slopeside Side Bar at Red Chair, a guided snowshoe tour at Nordic Center, and a candlelit New Year's Eve Luminaria along a 2km trail). Tickets are required for events.

Franklin Avenue reopened to full traffic this week after nearly four months of partial closure, now featuring new separated bike lanes and widened sidewalks.

The $3.6 million project stretches from Fourth to Eighth and comes ahead of planned improvements that may close the Franklin Avenue tunnel in 2026.

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

Beertown Comedy Open Mic

6:30-9:30 p.m. — Silver Moon Brewing — Free entry — Enjoy a hilarious night of local comedy at Bend's favorite open mic night.

New Year’s Eve 2026 Celebration with Watkins Glen

9 p.m. — McMenamins Old St. Francis School — $28 — Celebrate the New Year with live music, specialty cocktails, and a midnight champagne toast.

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.