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- Aug 18th, 2025 | Highlights
Aug 18th, 2025 | Highlights
More Than Headlines – It’s Zeit for Thought.
Bend Zeit
August 18, 2025
🌀Bend Zeit
“The spirit, stories, and service of Central Oregon – every week.”
🧭 The Essentials
YOUR BI-WEEKLY BEND EDIT
Welcome to Bend Zeit – You’re Officially Informed.
As we ride into the second half of August, Central Oregon still sizzles — but the shadows are just a bit longer, and the evenings a touch cooler. The back-to-school buzz is in the air, but there’s still plenty of time to chase sun-soaked moments.
This edition brings local gold: rooftop concerts, late-summer hikes, downtown pop-ups, and community shoutouts. We’re spotlighting a backcountry brewmaster with a wild story, a Rotary lunch with a state senator, and your next shot at solving our elusive photo clue.
Whether you’re paddling through glassy water, catching tunes under the stars, or just sneaking in a few quiet moments before September arrives — Bend’s not done with summer yet.
🌀 This Week’s Zeitgeist
“Savoring Summer’s Final Stretch”
As August winds down, Bend is alive with end-of-summer energy. Patio dining is in full swing, live music fills the evenings, and local trails are alive with hikers and bikers soaking up the last long days of sunshine. Farmers markets are at their peak, craft breweries are rolling out seasonal pours, and the city feels like it’s savoring every warm moment before autumn’s crisp edge sets in. Just ahead, early September brings Labor Day weekend festivities, fresh art walks, and the first hints of fall adventure on the horizon.
We’re breaking down the Top 3 Signals that prove the warm-weather vibe is peaking. And because Bend keeps delivering, we’re rolling out a fresh trio of our Top 3 Categories — what’s trending, tasty, scenic, or just plain awesome right now: 🍽️ Restaurants • 🏡 Homes • 🚶 Walking Trails • 💼 Local Businesses • 🌲 Outdoor Picks • 🎟️ Upcoming Events - and whatever else is catching the local vibe.
August in Bend, OR
Got a category you'd love to see featured? 👉Email us: [email protected] - we’d love to hear your suggestions!
Each week, we highlight one outstanding local business helping keep the BendZeit vibes flowing. This week’s featured sponsor:
Tucked into Bend’s vibrant Westside along Century Drive, Prost! is more than just a pub — it’s a cozy alpine escape where community, comfort food, and cold bier come together. Fuel up before your next mountain mission or unwind after a long day on the trails — Prost! hits the spot every time.
Come hungry, leave happy — and don’t skip the Schnitzel! Pair it with a crisp Bier, a side of Gurkensalat, and if you’re feeling bold, the legendary Schweinehaxen. It’s not just a meal — it’s a Bavarian celebration on a plate.
— The team at Prost! Bend
The Prost! Story | 📍 Visit Prost Bend 🕒 Hours 🍺 Swing by for German beers, patio vibes, and good company! |
🔥Top 3 Signals
1️⃣ Googly Eye Prank Hits National Headlines
Local creativity turned national news when someone began adorning Bend’s public sculptures—especially along the Roundabout Art Route—with oversized googly eyes. The playful prank sparked national chatter about the fine line between public art stewardship and joyful community mischief.
🌟 This marks a shift: Bend isn’t just a place to live, it’s a place the whole country is watching.
📍As seen on AP News and People.com
📎 apnews.com/article/2f4fce84569e3b599106199f3b6d66e3
📎 people.com/googly-eyes-prank-bend-oregon-8347921
2️⃣ Lava River Cave Makes Travel Hot List
The 5,211-foot-long Lava River Cave—Oregon’s longest continuous lava tube—was just spotlighted as a must-see natural wonder for 2025 travelers. The feature praised Bend’s unique mix of geology, history, and accessibility in outdoor adventure.
🌟 This marks a shift: Bend isn’t just a place to live, it’s a place the whole country is watching.
📍As seen on Travel + Leisure
📎 travelandleisure.com/lava-river-cave-oregon-guide-2025
3️⃣ Bend’s E-Bike Boom Gains National Attention
A surge in e-bike usage—from riverfront commuting to mountain trail rides—earned Bend a feature in a national sustainability spotlight. Experts say the city is becoming a model for blending recreation with eco-conscious transportation.
🌟 This marks a shift: Bend isn’t just a place to live, it’s a place the whole country is watching.
📍As seen on Outside Online
📎 outsideonline.com/bend-oregon-ebike-culture-2025
🥾Top 3 Category: Top 3 Hiking Trails Bend Area (per AllTrails)
Discover Bend’s best-rated adventures with our top picks, ranked by AllTrails and backed by verified hiker reviews. These three trails combine stunning scenery, local favorites, and consistent top ratings from thousands of outdoor enthusiasts.
🥇 Green Lakes / Soda Creek Loop Trail – 4.8/5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Type: Alpine trek through meadows, waterfalls, and volcanic landscapes with views of the South Sister. |  |
🥈 Bend Glacier and No Name Lake via Broken Top Trail 4.8/5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐  Type: Alpine hike featuring spectacular Broken Top and South Sister views, alpine lakes, and glacier remnants. | 🥉 Tumalo Mountain Trail – 4.7/5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐½  Type: Steady climb to a fire lookout with sweeping panoramic views of Cascade peaks and forests. |
🔬 Tech Corner: Scientists in Bend
David Dalton – From Botany Labs to Oregon’s Wild Rivers
David Dalton’s journey from North Carolina roots to Central Oregon life has been rich in science and adventure. A Duke- and Oregon State-trained botanist, David spent 32 years as a beloved Biology professor at Reed College, mentoring over 110 senior theses and securing $1.1 million in research grants. His work explored how vitamin C influences nitrogen fixation in plants—a niche that took him to conferences around the globe. David’s book, The Natural World of Lewis and Clark, reflects his passion for blending science with history. Now retired in Terrebonne with his wife Jan, he divides his time between hiking, mountain climbing, rafting Oregon’s rivers, and enjoying life with their golden retrievers, Sage and Timber.
 |  University of Missouri Press, 2007 |
💡 Bend Business Spotlight - Entrepreneurs of Bend
🌿 Bend Business Spotlight: Healing Horses with Energy & Intuition – Alex Lewis of P2P Healing
At the intersection of equine bodywork and innovative wellness technology, Alex Lewis brings a unique healing touch to Central Oregon’s horse community. With years of experience in Equine Bodywork and specialized training in PEMF (Pulsed Electromagnetic Field) therapy, Alex helps horses recover faster, perform better, and feel their best.
PEMF uses low-frequency electromagnetic waves to stimulate cellular repair, reduce inflammation, and ease pain—naturally. By combining this with hands-on bodywork, Alex targets tension, detects imbalances, and activates the parasympathetic “rest and digest” system, delivering holistic healing to each horse she works with.
PEMF and Bodywork with Alex Lewis
Equine PEMF, also known as High Energy Inductive Therapy (HEIT), with its many benefits has become a mainstream practice for horse trainers, equine vets, and riders.
“When I connect with a horse, I don’t just treat symptoms—I listen to what their body is saying. My goal is always deeper healing, not just surface relief.”
Alex’s clients range from competitive performance horses to aging companions, all benefiting from customized sessions that promote physical, emotional, and energetic balance.
📍 Based in Central Oregon
📍 Get in Touch
🌐 Learn more at: www.p2phealing.com/home
📧 Email: [email protected]
📞 Call/Text: (425) 870‑6589
📣 Explore the Services →
🧭 Around the Bend - What’s Happening This WEEK
Where every sunset comes with a soundtrack, a pint, and a reason to gather — this is Bend in August.
🎤 Counting Crows with The Gaslight Anthem
📅 Wed, Aug 19 | 7:00 pm
📍 Hayden Homes Amphitheater (Old Mill District)
A nostalgic evening as Counting Crows take the stage under the stars, joined by The Gaslight Anthem. A perfect blend of alt-rock favorites for a memorable night.
✨ Why go: A rare pairing of alt-rock icons for one unforgettable night.
🔗 bendconcerts.com/events (for Counting Crows show) visitbend.com
🤠 Lainey Wilson + ERNEST
📅 Fri, Aug 21 | 7:00 pm
📍 Hayden Homes Amphitheater
Country fans rejoice: Lainey Wilson brings her chart-topping hits to Bend, with rising star ERNEST warming up the crowd.
✨ Why go: The hottest voice in country music is bringing Nashville vibes to the High Desert.
🔗 bendconcerts.com/events (Lainey Wilson listing)
🎸 Mt. Joy Live in Concert
📅 Sat, Aug 22 | 7:00 pm
📍 Hayden Homes Amphitheater
Indie rock with soul—Mt. Joy brings its emotionally rich, intimate sound to The Mill.
✨ Why go: Perfect summer-evening soundtrack for fans of heartfelt, feel-good tunes.
🔗 bendconcerts.com/events
😂 Matt Rife – Live Comedy Night
📅 Sun, Aug 23 | 7:00 pm
📍 Hayden Homes Amphitheater
Catch rising comedic talent Matt Rife in a night of laughs and live entertainment, hosting wit and charm.
✨ Why go: TikTok’s favorite funnyman is bringing his unfiltered humor to Bend.
🔗 bendconcerts.com/events
🌴 Reggae Rise Up Oregon Festival
📅 Fri–Sun, Aug 29–31 | Various times
📍 Deschutes County Fair & Expo Center (Redmond)
Dive into vibrant vibes, immersive art, and top-tier reggae performances at the region’s premier reggae fest.
✨ Why go: The ultimate feel-good weekend with sunshine, music, and community spirit.
🔗 visitbend.com/event-calendar
🍺 Bend Beer Run — 5K & Craft Beer Stops
📅 Sat, Aug 30 | 9:00 am
📍 Drake Park & Downtown Bend
Combine fitness and fun with a scenic 5K that includes four beer tastings from local breweries along the way. Cheers to ending August on a high note!
✨ Why go: Only in Bend can you work up a sweat and enjoy a cold brew before the finish line.
🔗 visitbend.com/event-calendar
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📅 Also Happening this MONTH
🧘 Pre-Show Flow: Silent Disco Outdoor Yoga 📅 Tuesdays, through Sep 30 | 5:00–6:30 PM  A gentle, donation-based 60-minute flow class in nature—perfect for all levels to reconnect with community and calm. | 🚴 Gravity Race Series at Mt. 📅 Weekly Race | Friday Aug 22 | 3:30 –7:00 PM  Downhill mountain bike races in a friendly community series—cheer on local riders or cheer yourself on! Note: Final races conclude on August 22—don’t miss the season finale! |
🧘 Silent Disco Outdoor Yoga – Drake Park
📅 Monday, August 18, 2025 | 🕔 5:00 PM – 6:30 PM
📍 Drake Park, Riverside Blvd
Pre-show flow with DJ-led beats through headphones—bring your mat and vibe in peaceful community energy.
🎟️ Donation-based entry
Explore Even MORE → via Visit Bend events
🎤 Counting Crows – Hayden Homes Amphitheater
📅 Tuesday, August 19, 2025 | 🕠 Doors open: 5:00 PM | Show: 7:00 PM
📍 Hayden Homes Amphitheater, Old Mill District
Classic alt-rock hits live—Counting Crows headline with special guests The Gaslight Anthem.
🎟️ Tickets required
Explore Even MORE → via Visit Bend events
🍺 Little Woody Barrel Aged Brew Fest
📅 Fri, Aug 29 | 5:00–9:00 PM (continues Sat, Aug 30 at noon)
📍Deschutes Historical Museum
Taste barrel-aged beer, cider, and whiskey with eats, games, and gnome-themed fun.
🎟️ Tickets required (visit Bend calendar)
Bend's Favorite Beer Festival - The Little Woody
🎬 Movies in the Park – Mufasa: The Lion King
📅 Fri, Aug 29 | Sunset (approx. 7:00 PM)
📍 Alpenglow Park (61049 SE 15th St.)
Free screening under the stars with pre-show games and adult-free zone.
🎟️ Free family-friendly event
Movies in the Park - Mufasa, The Lion King (PG) - Bend Park and Recreation District
Note: Free for all, blankets & snacks encouraged—under-the-stars family fun.
🎟️ Bend Comedy Festival
📅 August 29 – Sunday, August 31, 2025 (Labor Day Weekend)
📍 Multiple downtown venues (The Capitol, Midtown Ballroom)
Over 20 shows featuring national headliners, local comics, and surprise pop‑ups across Bend’s theater venues.
🎟️ Festival pass required (~$100 / $150 with VIP options also available)
Explore Even MORE → via Visit Bend Festival page
🏡 The Market Minute: Bend, OR
Single Family Residential Snapshot (as of 2nd week of August):
Compared to the prior week, Bend’s housing market showed mixed signals. Prices slid, pendings dipped sharply, but sales volume jumped—suggesting more deals are closing at lower price points. Buyers remain cautious, and sellers still face pressure to meet the market.
🔽 Key Weekly Metrics vs. Week Ending Aug 9, 2025:
📉 Median Sales Price:
$860,000 — down from $962,000 the prior week → a 10.6% decline, reflecting shifting toward lower-priced closings.
⏱ Median Days on Market:
44 days — down from 45 days → a 1.1% improvement, homes are moving slightly faster, though still lingering.
📦 Active Inventory:
920 homes — down from 930 → a 1% decrease, holding steady but not shrinking enough to change buyer leverage.
🏷 New Listings:
63 — up from 62 → a 1.6% increase, signaling steady new supply trickling into the market.
🛑 New Pendings:
51 — down from 64 → a 20.3% drop, pointing to buyer hesitation or slower contract activity.
💰 Total Sales Dollar Volume:
$52.7M — up from $41.5M → a 27% increase, showing more closed transactions despite lower pricing.
🤝 Closed Sales:
45 — up from 36 → a 25% jump, a solid weekly rebound in completed deals.
🏘️ Months of Inventory:
20.4 — down from 25.8 → a 20.8% reduction, reflecting stronger sales volume relative to available inventory.
🔍 What This Tells Us
📥 Buyers
You still have leverage, with prices down sharply and inventory ample. But closed sales are rising, meaning the best-value homes don’t linger. Have your financing ready, and move quickly on properties priced right.
📤 Sellers
Closings rebounded, but only at adjusted prices. Buyers are selective and cautious. Pricing aggressively to market conditions—and presenting a turnkey product—remains essential.
🎯 Tip for the Moment
Buyers: Take advantage of lower prices, but don’t wait too long—closings are ticking upward again.
Sellers: The deals are happening, but only for homes priced competitively. Meet buyers where they are, or risk sitting.
💡 Pro Insight: With median prices dropping over 10% in one week, pendings down 20%, and closings up 25%, Bend’s market is volatile. Sellers who adapt get results. Buyers who act decisively secure value.
Pro-Tip given by BendButteProperty and 📊 Data provided by Domus Analytics — a trusted source for real estate market insights.*
* Disclaimer: Market data may vary. Always consult your local real estate professional or MLS for the most accurate and current information.
Also Interesting: 🏞️THE ULTIMATE RELOCATION GUIDE TO BEND 🏞️
🟢 #9 (of 20): Dog Owners’ Guide to Bend 🟢
Bend is often listed as one of the most dog-friendly towns in America — and it shows. From parks to patios, it’s a pup paradise for buyers who want their four-legged friends to feel at home.
📚 Earlier in This Series:
🔵 1. The Ultimate Relocation Guide to Bend
🔵 2. Top 10 Neighborhoods for Newcomers
🔵 3. Cost of Living in Bend (2025 Edition)
🔵 4. Renting vs. Buying in Bend
🔵 5. Bend Homebuyer’s Checklist
🔵 6. Your First Year in Bend: What to Know & What to Do
🔵 7. Outdoor Recreation Guide
🔵 8. E-Bike Friendly Neighborhoods & Trails
To receive the full guide:
💰 Lender Spotlight: Aaron Callahan – Hilltop Home Loans
When it comes to navigating Bend’s fast-paced housing market, having a trusted local lender isn’t just helpful—it’s essential. That’s why we’re spotlighting one of the most respected names in the business: 💰 Lender: Aaron Callahan with Hilltop Home Loans
🧑💼 Aaron CallahanBroker/Owner – Hilltop Home Loans |  |
🛠️ Builder Spotlight: LUMA Vista Investment, Inc.
Looking for high-quality new construction from a builder you can trust?
🏡 LUMA Vista Investment, Inc. has earned a reputation as one of Central Oregon’s most respected homebuilders — with over 700 homes completed across communities in Central Oregon, including Tetherow, Sisters, Redmond, and beyond.
Led by owner Tony, LUMA Vista blends craftsmanship with integrity. Based on our own experience, LUMA Vista not only delivers exceptional work, but he’s also someone you can count on — reliable, transparent, and committed to doing things the right way.
🏡 Realtor Spotlight: Tom Graup – Bend Butte Properties
(BBP / Knipe Realty)
Bend Butte Properties/ Knipe RE – Local Roots, Trusted Results
Looking to buy or sell in Bend? 🌄 Trust local Realtor Thomas (Tom) Graup of Bend Butte Properties – backed by Knipe Realty ERA Powered. With a deep knowledge of Bend and a professional background in negotiation and client service, Tom brings more than real estate expertise — he brings care, strategy, and a passion for helping others thrive in Bend.
As a licensed Oregon Realtor, I bring strategic expertise from my background in technology, government, and commercial consulting to help buyers, sellers, and investors navigate real estate with confidence. My Big 5 consulting, program management, and negotiation experience enables me to manage complex transactions, market trends, and competitive strategies with precision. Fluent in English and German, I provide a multicultural, concierge-level real estate experience, ensuring that every client receives personalized service and solutions tailored to their goals.
📞 Ready to make your next move? Tom Graup – Bend Butte Properties / Knipe Realty Caring | Competent | Committed |  Licensed Realtor #201257984 |
💬 Testimonials – Happy Customers
Family Z., July 2025 - Bend, OR
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
S. & A. Zembles
“Tom is a fantastic real estate agent!
We met him at an open house back in February and chose to work with him during our relocation from Kansas City to Bend. Six months later, we’re now settled into our new home and couldn’t be more pleased with the purchase.
During this time, Tom was consistently professional, responsive, and patient. He helped us navigate the Bend market remotely, provided thoughtful guidance on local neighborhoods, and made sure we were informed at every step. His local knowledge and attention to detail made the process smooth and reassuring. We’re grateful for his support and would confidently recommend him to anyone moving to Central Oregon. Thanks, Tom!!”
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thomas Voigt
“When I visited Bend to explore buying options, Tom went above and beyond to show me around and explain the pros and cons of each neighborhood. He was incredibly helpful and professional. Highly recommend!”
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Hovik M.
“Working with Tom Graup was an absolute pleasure. He is not only incredibly polite but also a true gentleman. I was thoroughly impressed by his deep knowledge of the Bend market. Tom took the time to explain the unique characteristics of various neighborhoods, providing us with valuable insights. He also showed us several homes, all of which we really liked. If you're looking for an outstanding agent with a thorough understanding of the Bend market, we highly recommend Tom!”
🗓️ Recognized June 3, 2025
🏔️ Parks and Recreation 🚴♂️
Learn how Old Coast Pickleball turned two courts into a thriving community and use their playbook to launch or grow your own club. Plus, get a free PDF download of 10 essential tips for opening your pickleball club.
🎲Take a Break – "ZeitSpiel" 🎲
🦎 PHOTO CLUE – AUG
Time to flex those local knowledge muscles… 🧠 This month’s clue soars a bit higher — and it’s bound to ruffle some feathers (in the best way). We spotted this awe-inspiring sculpture reaching for the sky, frozen in a moment of graceful chaos. Wings outstretched, talons ready, and petals flying — it’s a tribute to motion, nature, and maybe even a little drama. 🧩 Can you tell us exactly where in (nearer) Bend this sculpture lives? 💡 Think you’ve got it? Reply with your answer for a chance to win a $150 gift card to your favorite local restaurant — and get featured in next edition’s Winner’s Circle! 🎉 |  📍 Hint: It’s firmly rooted, highly detailed, and greets more people than you’d think — if they just look up. |
🌄 What’s Just Around the Corner in Bend & Beyond
September in Central Oregon means crisp mornings, golden light, and a calendar that doesn’t quit. Whether you're easing back into routine or soaking up the last drops of summer sun — here's what to watch for:
🍁 Hello, Fall Vibes (Already?)
• Fall festivals are popping up — from craft fairs to cider tastings 🎨🍎
• Oktoberfest events are brewing (yes, with steins!) 🍺
• Trailheads are a little quieter. Now’s your chance to hike in peace 🥾🌲
• Cool nights = fire pits, hoodies, and backyard s’mores 🔥
🎒 Back in the Groove
• School zones are active — plan those morning drives accordingly 🚗
• Local libraries are kicking off fall programming 📖
• Pumpkin patches are prepping for a mid-month open 🎃
📸 Something fun is coming in our next Photo Clue… keep your eyes peeled 👀
💌 Spread the Local Love
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📤 Forward this email or send them to join the community and stay in the loop with what’s next in Bend.
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🌀 Curated. Local. 100% Bend.
A Final Note
🍃 As August Winds Down...
August doesn’t ask permission — it shows up in full sun, turns the volume up, and dares you to keep pace. It’s a month of motion — late-night dinners, sun-warmed trails, and one more weekend trip you probably didn’t plan for.
But here’s the thing: you don’t need to chase it all. As August starts to soften at the edges, it’s okay to slow your own rhythm too.
Pick a few moments that matter — a misty sunrise paddle, an unhurried brunch, a quiet walk through your neighborhood before the school rush returns — and make those your markers of summer well spent.
Because the best part of August isn’t how much you pack in…
It’s how deeply you show up for the parts you choose.
This Week’s Sponsor Corner
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Until next time, keep an eye on the Zeit.
Stay curious. Stay connected. Stay local.
Disclaimer:
All content featured in this publication is curated from publicly available sources, official announcements, and community resources. Bend Zeit does not claim ownership of any third-party material, and every effort has been made to ensure proper attribution where applicable. No copyright infringement is intended.