MONTH OF JANUARY  2008

Monday, January 1, 2008, New Years Day, Resolution Ramble with The Fobbits at The Badlands
Meet at Flatiron Trailhead, Milepost 16, Highway 20. Reserve a place with David Eddleston, Organizer of Friends of the Badlands - "The Fobbits"
The tour will start at Flatiron Rock Trailhead, located opposite Milepost 16 on Highway 20, and hike in about a mile north on the Ancient Juniper Trail. We'll then hike cross - country to the West, for about a mile, to a unique area, and then make a loop northwards back to the trailhead. Hot drinks (and those adult ones, think Scottish, enabling a start to the New Year), and dessert will be served. Part of the assignment will be looking for illegal digging activity northwest of the trailhead. About 3 hours, 6 miles. See our photos of this event: soon.

Friday, January 4, 2008, First Friday Gallery Walk in downtown Bend Oregon
The streets of Bend fill with art patrons on the first Friday of every month as Downtown Bend and Old Mill District art galleries stay open late with receptions for guest artists and special presentations of new exhibits.

Saturdays in January, 2008, Deschutes Brewery Tours
Saturdays from noon to 4pm enjoy a free tour through the brewery and visit the tasting room. Special arrangements may be made by calling 541-385-8606.
The Deschutes Brewery is located at 901 SW Simpson Drive at the Simpson-Colorado Roundabout in Bend. See photos soon.

Tuesday, January 8, 2008, TUG Meeting, USFS, Bend Ft-Rock Ranger District, Trail User Group Meeting
We will be meeting at Red Oaks Square at 6:30PM. (This is our 13th year as a member of this USFS Advisory Committee!)

Wednesday, January 9, 2008, 7PM, Cascades Mountaineers Presentations of Member Outings in 2007
Cascades Mountaineers club members take the floor for short presentations on whatever stirs them. Subjects can vary from the serious and technical, to attempts at what border on climbing related improv comedy. Previous years have also included club members good natured rants on equipment likes/dislikes. Many of the presentations include slideshows or video.

Thursday, January 10, 2008, 6:00PM, Deschutes Democrats' Candidate Night at the Bend Community Center
"Meet candidates for Oregon's Attorney General and Secretary of State, and Judy Stiegler for Oregon House District 54, at the Deschutes Democrats' Candidate Night at the Bend Community Center, 1036 NE Fifth Street. 6:00 pm no-host bar and meet the candidates. 7:00 pm buffet dinner of chicken rosemary, vegetarian lasagna, spaghetti, salad, bread, beverage, dessert ($12.50 in advance, $14.00 at the door). 7:30 pm candidate remarks. Not necessary to buy a dinner ticket, just come to hear/meet the candidates if you wish. Attorney General candidates are John Kroger and Greg Macpherson; Secretary of State candidates are Brad Avakian, Kate Brown, Rick Metzger and Vicki Walker. Judy Stiegler is running against Chuck Burley, no friend of the environment, for House District 54 (Bend). Contact Connie at 330-1886 for reservations. Oregon's Primary is May 20th, which is arguably equally if not more important than the General Election for the two statewide positions. This is the only opportunity to see all these candidates together before the Primary." --Gretchen Valido, Sierra Club. See our local political action photos.

"Please join the Sierra Club in its efforts to elect and protect environmental champions by donating to the Sierra Club Political Action Committee! Your donation in any amount counts, and we count on YOU! Our priorities? Electing more pro-environment state/national legislators and county commissioners, funding for the DEQ to regulate polluters, forward sensible clean energy projects, close loopholes that allow factory farms to despoil rural communities and the Columbia River Gorge, protect salmon and wildlife, and defend Oregon's forests and open spaces."

Wednesday, January 16, 2008, Climate Change and the Law: How Oregon and Other States Are Responding to the Growing Risk in the Absence of Federal Leadership. Dan Galpern, of the Western Environmental Law Center, is the lead attorney for the coalition fighting the EPA's denial of California's request for a waiver of the Clean Air Act rule that prohibits states from enforcing their own emissions standards. Without the waiver, California and also Oregon and Washington are not able to implement their greenhouse gas emissions reduction laws for passenger cars and light trucks. COEC, 7:00 PM, sponsored by 3E Strategies.

  Saturday, January 19, 2008, "Real Backcountry Survival Strategies", a presentation for 104 Eastern Oregon 4H high school students by Robert Speik
The Oregon State University Extension Service Deschutes County 4-H Program has asked me to teach 52 4H kids and leaders for 4 hours in the morning and repeat the class for 52 more in the afternoon during their 2008 Retreat at Eagle Crest Resort in Oregon. With the help on our proprietary Power Point programs, handouts and some interesting experiments, I think we will have a lot of fun. Everyone knows to BE PREPARED but exactly how do you do this?

Sunday, January 20, 2008, The Patagonia Winter Sale has begun at Patagonia by Pandora's Backpack in downtown Bend!!
"Come on in to take advantage of the great savings including: 25% off of select clothing, outerwear, and capilene, 25% off of all Watergirl.25% off of all kids' clothing and accessories. Patagonia by Pandora's Backpack Downtown Bend, St. Clair Place Building 920 NW Bond Street (541) 382-6694"
Note: What to pick up?  Read More from TraditionalMountaineering

Monday, January 21, 2008, Martin Luther King, Jr. Day!

Monday, January 21, 2008, 6:00 PM, First Fobbit Indoor Meeting of 2008, at Central Oregon Environmental Center
The Friends of the Badlands continue with the stewardship of the Badlands Wilderness Study area, a worthy endeavor for this high desert jewel, so close to Bend.
I'll be looking for some input from Fobbits for the next three months and would like to discuss some of the following.--David, Chief Fobbit.

Wednesday, January 23, 2008, Bend Hiking Group Meet-Up at the BBC
Who should come? Old members of the group, new members of the group, prospective members of the group wanting to check us out and see if we are normal people. Where? Bend Brewing Company, on Brooks Street behind the Bank of America in downtown Bend. Meet the Leaders, plan new hikes. Bob Speik will talk about his Navigation Noodle in The Badlands.

Saturday, January 26, 2008, Friends of Library Winter Book Sale
Where: Book Cellar of Old Bend Library, 507 NW Wall Street, 10Am to4PM, Free.

  Saturday, January 26, 2008, 9AM to 3PM, FREE Navigation Noodle® in the Badlands, no matter what the weather!
This is a FREE field exercise for folks who have learned a bit about modern land navigation techniques with map, compass and "optional" GPS.
Click for photos of a previous Noodle   Limited to 10 people. You must Reserve a place!  Print the Flyer for a friend.
Call Bob Speik at 385-0445 for your Reservation, the location of the meeting place and a detailed Prospectus.

Bob's FREE Navigation Noodle® in The Badlands, Central Oregon, USA

  (My personal vanity plates from the 1970s --Webmeister Speik)
Thursday, January 28, 2008, "Spirit of the Marathon" at the Old Mill Theaters
This is a must-see documentary for all serious recreational runners! It will show again on February 21 2008 at the Regal Old Mill Stadium 16 theater.

MONTH OF FEBRUARY  2008

Seventeen people braved the snow storms. The folks from Klamath Fall understandably could not attend!
  Saturday, February 2, 2008, 9AM to about noon,
 "Staying found in the Backcountry with Map, Compass and GPS, together"
You just can’t “stay found” with GPS alone! You need the right map and a compass too. But how do you use them together, for a day hike, a backpack, a hunt or a mountain bike adventure?

We will talk about USGS Quad maps ($7) and affordable TOPO map computer programs ($99), that help you print your own small maps. Free Forest Service maps at Trail Heads have UTM Grid lines and give you important locations in UTM NAD27 coordinates. How do you use these maps and grids?

We will talk about how to use a simple base plate Compass, not to just point to North, but to plot a bearing back to car or camp using the compass on the map as a simple protractor

A simple Garmin eTrex H GPS ($99) is just as accurate as a GPS costing $650. There are just five basic pages needed to find your way, to find a location on the map and to plot the way back along trails, traces and contours. Those participants who have a GPS will learn how to use these pages.

Our proprietary Power Point program covers all the information. Then, with a five page workbook, we will work in pairs and threes on drills and real life situations. Handouts include an eleven page printed summary too. We provide the maps; you can use your compass and GPS or try ours.

Cost per student is $35.00,  benefiting the not-for-profit website www.TraditionalMountaineering.org. 
In fairness to all, you must Reserve a place!
For more information and to hold a place, email info@traditionalmountaineering.org or call Robert Speik at 541.385.0445.
Print the flyer for a friend.  See photos of last year's class.   See photos of USFS Volunteer Training.  See this year's class!

Saturday, February 2, 2008 Mason Williams & Friends in Concert at the Bend High School Auditorium
Mason Williams is the composer of the hit song Classical Gas, a Three-Time Grammy Winner, a Two-Time Emmy Winner and Musician Laureate State of Oregon!
Don't miss the debut performance of Mason's national tour right here in Central Oregon! Ticket Prices: only $35.00 & $55.00. www.cascademusic.org Call: 541.383.2202

Tuesday, February 5, 2008, 7AM, Robert Speik talks about Traditional Mountaineering on the ABC station KOHD, Channel 9 in Bend
Note: I met the very friendly and interesting production staff at Bend's new ABC HD station. The control room was operated by six or seven guys and gals who let me snap digitals as I waited to go "on the air" I was introduced by morning hosts Jim Brinson (and Co-Anchor Lauren Biskind) and talked about winter backcountry travel, the Four Basic Responsibilities and Ten Essential Systems, showing my winter daypack and the new Spot Satellite Messenger system (which works where you cell phone is out of touch). I am told it went well thanks to the relaxed competence of the staff at KOHD. Thanks! --Bob Speik See photos soon!

Friday through Sunday, February 8 to 10, 2008 8th Annual Bend Winterfest
"This is the premier winter carnival in Oregon and is Bend Winter Fest's 8th anniversary celebration. Featuring our ever-popular ice carving exhibitions, fireworks, races at Mt. Bachelor, Mojo Music Eruption in the Festival Center, children's activities at Snowflake Village, the Rage Films Rail Jam, ice skating, and Arts Central LIVE, LibertyBank Bend Winterfest will feature an expanded Winter Wine an Barley Hop of Bend, headline entertainment at the Tower Theatre, the Winterfest Marketplace, a snowman building contest, and a polar bear plunge. Where: Troy Field next to McMenamin's on Bond Street, FREE, but buy a WinterFest button for $6.00". See our photos of last years event.

Wednesday to Sunday, February 6 to 10, 2008, Level 2 Avalanche Safety Course at COCC
"Classroom time will be used to review the contributing factors related to avalanche hazard, as well as introduce the latest in snowpack assessment, decision making and avalanche rescue using transceivers, probes, etc. On-snow time will be used to hone skills in various methods of testing the snowpack, practice avalanche rescue techniques, and gain further experience in trip planning and decision making in a field setting. Students must have completed a Level I Avalanche course within the past 5 years, be intermediate level snowriders, and have adequate fitness to travel extended distances in the backcountry. Students are expected to provide their own avalanche safety gear (transceiver, shovel, probe; a limited number are available to rent). Snow study kits, maps and 4 1/2 days of expert instruction will be provided. Instructors: Roger Averback, former owner and lead guide of Wing Ridge Ski and Aaron Lish, Outdoor Leadership professor at COCC. (2 credits, plus $75 course fee = total cost approx. $200) Call 383-7760 or email alish@cocc.edu for more info."

Sunday, February 10, 8:00 AM Snow Shoe Hike, The Bend Hiking Meetup Group!
With a bit of luck the trails should be in great shape after all the new snow. Join me for a short snowshoe hike in one of the snowparks. The exact destination and length of hike will depend on the snow conditions but we'll plan to make this a relatively short hike - suitable for less experienced hikers. Depending on the conditions, we'll aim to hike to one of the huts. Maybe Swampy lakes or perhaps the Edison Shelter. I'll see you at Starbucks on Century Drive at 8AM ON SUNDAY..
--Tom Ryan, Learn more here: http://hiking.meetup.com/309/calendar/7265719/

Tuesday, February 12, 2008, USFS, Bend Ft-Rock Ranger District, Trail User Group (TUG) Meeting
We will be meeting at Red Oaks Square at 6:30PM. (This is our 13th year as a member of this USFS Advisory Committee!) See pictures of this TUG Meeting.

Wednesday, February 13, 2008, 7:00 PM, Ice Climbing Clinic at the Central Oregon Environmental Center
"Ice Climbing Clinic and General Networking Night for Climbers, presented by Cascades Mountaineers Club Members. Anyone having an interest in ice climbing is encouraged to attend. Whether you are experienced or looking to try it, we would like to have you here. We will have all types of ice climbing gear explained and available for handling. Mountain Supply will bring over some of the newest gear for you to check out! The club will also be providing blocks of ice in order for those interested in seeing placement of ice screws and making a V-thread for rappelling. We will be taking donations to help pay for the ice!" See our photos of this Clinic.

Thursday, February 14, 2008, Traditional Valentines Day!

Saturday, February 16, 2008, 10AM at the Oregon State University Extension Service 4-H High Desert Idea Fair at the County Fairgrounds
Seminar on Real Outdoor Survival Strategies: Four Basic Responsibilities and the Ten Essential Systems. Not open to the public.

Tuesday, February 19, 2008, 8PM, "Real Outdoor Survival and Map Compass and GPS Together" for the High Desert Squadron, Civil Air Patrol
"We would like to take this opportunity to ask our visitors to the backcountry of Oregon to plan for the unexpected." "Visitors are reminded to tell a Responsible Person where they are going, where they plan to park, when they will be back and to make sure that person understands that they are relied upon to call 911 at a certain time if the backcountry traveler has not returned." Not open to the public.

Tuesday, February 19, 2008, 8PM, $10.00 21 and over, "Higher Ground" an indy film at McMenamins, A benefit for Cascades Mountaineers
Nature junkies of all types will dig this “mountain culture climbing film” that was an official selection of the '07 Alpinist Film Festival, the '07 Vancouver International Mountain Film Festival and the '06 Banff Mountain Film Festival. Have a McMenamins ale while you’re with us.
Here is the link to the film maker's website www.hg-productions.com.

  (My personal vanity plates from the 1970s --Webmeister Speik)
Thursday, February 21, 2008, "Spirit of the Marathon" at the Regal Old Mill Stadium 16 theater.
This is a must-see documentary for all serious recreational runners!

Thursday, February 21, 2008, 5:30 to 7:30, meet the ONDA Badlands Wilderness Campaign Organizers at the BBC
This get together is sponsored by the ONDA folks for two new Green Corps Organizers, Ruth Morrison from Bowdon College and Ben Walsh from University of Vermont. Free Beer and chips for folks who can get involved with this campaign. RSVP to Gena Goodman-Campbell gena@onda.org  See our pictures of this event.

Saturday, February 23, 2008, at the High Desert Museum, Mid Oregon Credit Union's Free Family Saturday
Experience the nationally acclaimed Museum for free! Sponsored by Mid Oregon Credit Union. See our photos of the High Desert Museum. Wolves at the Museum!

Thursday, February 28, 2008, 7:00 to 9:00PM, Retirement Reception for Jane Meisner at Pine Mountain Sports
"One of Bend's favorite outdoor recreation enthusiasts is retiring. For many years, Jane Meissner has been an invaluable resource for outdoor enthusiasts, sharing her love of cross-country skiing as a COCC Community Learning Instructor. Pine Mountain Sports is very proud to host a drop-in party in Jane's honor. If you know Jane, please stop in to show your appreciation for all she's done to promote and support outdoor recreation in Bend."
Note: In the 1990's, I took several beginning cross country ski classes from Jane Meissner. When I retired from skiing, she said to me, "Thank goodness Bob, before you hurt yourself or someone else!" --Webmeister Speik

Friday, February 29, 2008, Leap Day
Remember Daisy Mae? How old are you?

MONTH OF MARCH 2008

Tuesday, March 4, 2008, 7PM, Badlands Supporters Meeting, Environmental Center at 16 NW Kansas in Bend.
A key window has just opened for Central Oregonians to push this designation forward and so we have the best opportunity we have ever had to protect this wild, high desert beauty. Join the Friends of the Badlands and ONDA to find out how we can make it happen. Read the complete news release.

Wednesday, March 5, 2008, 6:30 PM, The Pacific Crest Trail History and more Free at the Bend REI store
Come learn more about the Pacific Crest Trail history and protection of the trail. You will also have the opportunity to learn how you can get involved with volunteer opportunities. Hear a little about hiking the trail and more.

Wednesday, March 5, 2008, 6 to 8 PM, High Desert Museum Exhibit preview reception: Amerikanuak! Basques in the High Desert
Discover how European Basque culture helped make the High Desert a distinctly different part of the West, particularly in sheepherding. Hundreds of artifacts dating back to the 1890s tell this compelling emigrant story. Members, be sure to RSVP. Open to the public on March 7, 2008.

  Saturday and Sunday, March 8 and 9, 2008, WILDERNESS FIRST AID taught by WMI of the National Outdoor Leadership School (NOLS), Sponsored by TraditionalMountaineering.org FULL
Every serious outdoor recreationist and outdoor Leader should take this nationally recognized two day Wilderness First Aid (WFA) class. Accidents occurring beyond the planned immediate response time of our national emergency rescue net should be handled with techniques very different from those taught in Red Cross First Aid classes.

Wilderness Medicine Institute of NOLS is nationally recognized, offering special Certified training for medical professionals and backcountry, climbing and river guide services. Wilderness First Responder (WFR) training by WMI takes two weeks. This WFA class qualifies as a recertification for WFR Certificate holders.

Fast paced and a lot of fun, the WFA class includes realistic accident simulations in the outdoors. This two day adventure will be held at a private ranch in Tumalo, near Bend. Some folks may wish to car/tent camp at the ranch and enjoy a community cook-out and bon-fire on Saturday evening.

Minimum of 15 and maximum of 30 participants. Fee is $125. These WFA classes usually cost from $135 to $182. You must Reserve and pay the fee in full as required by WMI. For more information call Robert Speik at 541-385-0445 or email info@TraditionalMountaineering.org  Read the Prospectus.  Photos of this training.

All 30 places at this low-priced weekend are now Reserved with fully paid enrollments. Do you want to take this same class in a couple of months? Send me an email! --Bob Speik, 541-385-0445!

March 9, 2008, Daylight Savings time begins!
What?!?

Monday, March 10, 2008, 9 PM, WebCyclery Movie Night at McMenamins: THE SIX-DAY BICYCLE RACES
"Come join the crew of WebCyclery for The Six-Day Bicycle Races -- a documentary covering the glamour sport of the 1910’s, 20’s, and 30’s—
The Six-Day Bicycle Track Race. Discover the original American form of bicycle racing. Six-Day bicycle racing—the original multi-day physical contest—enjoyed phenomenal popularity in cities around the United States and across Europe", $5 per person, 21 & over.

Tuesday, March 11, 2008, TUG Meeting, USFS, Bend Ft-Rock Ranger District, Trail User Group Meeting
We will be meeting at Red Oaks Square at 6:30 PM. (This is our 13th year as a member of this USFS Advisory Committee!)

Wednesday, March 12, 2008, 6:30 PM, Members slide show and discussion on what to pack for an single day Alpine climb with Cascades Mountaineers.
Club Members will present some of their outings and adventures. If you are interested in presenting, please bring your slide show on a USB flash drive and limit your presentation to 15 minutes. Please contact Dave Slavensky at info@cascadesmountaineers.org or by phone to let him know you want to present.

MONTH OF APRIL 2008

Thursday, April 3, 2008, 8PM, Arlo Guthrie's "Solo Reunion Tour - Together at Last"
Benefit for 106.7 KPOV, Bend Community Radio. Bend High School Auditorium. Tickets will go on sale in February. Call 541-322-0863. Print the flyer for a friend.

Friday, April 4, 2008, First Friday Gallery Walk in downtown Bend Oregon
The streets of Bend fill with art patrons on the first Friday of every month as Downtown Bend and Old Mill District art galleries stay open late with receptions for guest artists and special presentations of new exhibits. See Mark Quan at the Painted Pony and have a glass of wine!

Friday, April 4, 2008, Patagonia by Pandora's Backpack is proud to announce the opening of their sister store, Fleet Feet Sports, Bend
The owners of Patagonia by Pandora's Backpack, Rod and Katie Bien, are proud to announce their new store, Fleet Feet Sports at 1320 NW Galveston, Bend.
Owner Rod Bien says, "as a runner and fitness enthusiast, I am excited to be opening up a focused retail environment where our sole purpose will be putting people in the right footwear. From someone who just needs a comfortable, well fitting shoe all the way up to the elite athlete, we have the experience and knowledge to handle every customer who walks in our door." Any questions? Give them a call at 389-1601. See Fleet Feet Sports, Bend for the race calendar and for local running and walking news and events.

Saturday, April 5, 2008, Summit High School Auditorium, "Straight No Chaser"
Straight No Chaser brings their incredible blend of vocal talent and exciting stage presence to Central Oregon! Don't miss out on the performance that's sure to be the talk of the town -- the national a cappella phenomenon Straight No Chaser with an opening by Summit High School's own Skyliner Jazz!
1:30pm Matinee Tickets: $15, Free to students with Student ID Card; 7:30pm Evening Performance, Tickets: $20 ($22 At the Door)

Sunday, April 6, 2008, Horse Butte Ten-Miler Sponsored by FootZone
This annual race is held as a fund-raising benefit run for ONDA. Learn more at: http://www.footzonebend.com/events. Contact davidt@bendbroadband.com, Race Director, for volunteer opportunities.

Tuesday, April 8, 2008, TUG Meeting, USFS, Bend Ft-Rock Ranger District, Trail User Group Meeting
We will be meeting at Red Oaks Square at 6:30PM. (This is our 13th year as a member of this USFS Advisory Committee!)

Tuesday, April 8, 2008, The Sierra Club offers previews of this year's hikes and work parties in Oregon’s desert wildlands
See how the Club is working to obtain permanent wilderness designation for three Wilderness Study Areas: Spring Basin (John Day Basin), Soda Mountain (Cascade-Siskiyou Nat'l Monument) and the Badlands (east of Bend). Learn about the under-the-radar issue of energy sighting corridors in Oregon. These proposed corridors will result in swaths of clear cut and access roads which are controversial when they intersect potential and existing wilderness/sensitive areas in our state. Maps and photos will highlight contemplated piping and transmission line grids. Followed by Q&A. 6:30 social/snacks, 7:00 program, Central Oregon Environmental Center, 16 NW Kansas, Bend.

Wednesday, April 9, 2008, 7 PM, Experiences as an Adventure Racer Presented by Cathy Sassin for Cascades Mountaineers at the Environmental Center
It was Cathy's interest in team dynamics and working with other people that made her a good candidate for a new idea, the non-stop expedition race "Eco-Challenge". But it was her ability to suffer and keep moving forward that propelled her to the top of the pack. Quickly Cathy's name became synonymous with the elite in the emerging 'adventure racing' world. She has competed and led in Raid Gaulosies, a prestigious and grueling race that has become legendary as the prototype of the modern adventure race. The details are often beyond comprehension of even the most avid outdoor enthusiast.

Thursday, April 10, 2008, 7 PM, FREE, NOAA Weather Spotter orientation at Crooked River Ranch
"The National Weather Service needs volunteers to provide severe weather reports. Spotters relay their reports to the Weather Service as they see it. This information is used by forecasters to track storms and alert the public to dangerous weather situations. Time and time again, reports from trained weather spotters have saved countless lives, especially during heavy rain, thunderstorms and wind storms. This two-hour course will include information about the National Weather Service, tornadoes, thunderstorms, flash floods, dust storms, high winds and winter storms. Students who complete the course will receive a training certificate." See our Weather Spotter page.

Thursday and Friday, April 10 and 11, 2008, 7 PM, "Mission: Wolf" Returns to the High Desert Museum
Get face-to-face with these legendary, charismatic predators, and learn about their crucial role in a diverse, balanced ecosystem from Mission Wolf, a Colorado refuge and educational program. If you've ever wanted to see live wolves close-up or learn about the plight of this splendid and controversial animal, here is your chance. Tickets: Call 541.382.4754 ext. 241 See our photos of the previous wolf sighting. See the Museum!

Friday, April 11, 2008, The Alpinist Film Festival from Jackson Hole, at the Tower Theater
"The event will retain the unique look and feel of the master Festival, including a cocktail hour with New Belgium beer, a live DJ, silent auction and presentation of films by star athletes and the director of the Alpinist Film Festival, Christian Beckwith. The Bend Event will be a fun gathering of the local community in an ongoing celebration of the adventure lifestyle. Stay tuned for more information about the Bend Event". Print the poster for a friend. See the website.

Saturday, April 12, 2008, Skyliners Summer Sports Swap at the Mt. Bachelor Bus Barn
All proceeds to MBSEF. For information call 541-388-0002.

Friday through Sunday, April 11 to 13, 2008, ONDA Annual Meeting at the Hancock Field Station
This year's annual meeting will again be held at OMSI's Hancock Field Station near Clarno. The field station is set in an optimal place for exploring the John Day Fossil Beds, Spring Basin WSA and the Pine Creek Conservation Area. As always come prepared to get dirty, eat great food, have fun and meet people passionate about preserving Oregon's Desert wildlands. If you haven't been to a meeting before it's a great opportunity to meet the staff at ONDA and spend some time on restoration projects in the area. Ticket prices are $55 for members and $65 for non-members. Become a member and your $55 registration fee will cover your annual membership dues! This year we are offering family tickets for 2 adults and 2 children at $145 for members and $160 for non-members. See photos of last years event. Join the Oregon Natural Desert Association! Learn more at www.ONDA.org .

Saturday, April 19, 2008, Earth Day Fair & Procession of the Species Parade
If you like to celebrate all that is natural and green, join in the fun at The Earth Day Fair and Procession of the Species Parade in Downtown Bend. The Earth Day Fair features fun kids activities, unique earth friendly vendors, and music & dancing. For more information on either of these events, call 541-385-6908. See our photos of a previous Fair.

Saturday, April 19, 2008, 6:30 PM, Desert Nights Gala at the Museum
Big band. Martinis. Great hors d'oeuvres. A fabulous fundraiser for the Museum's exhibits and education programs. Tickets: $200 for two; Members, $150 for two.
Call 382.4754, ext. 368; or purchase online at highdesertmuseum.org

Saturday, April 19, 2008, 7 PM, William Sullivan Slideshow: New Hikes in Eastern Oregon at Pine Mountain Sports
255 SW Century Drive. Free; RSVP required, due to limited seating. Email Michelle or call 385-8080.

  Saturday, April 19, 2008, 9 AM to about 3 PM, a Fee Class at the Environmental Center in downtown Bend
BASIC WINTER MOUNTAINEERING FULL with 16 mountaineers!
An indoor, hands-on skills class with Robert Speik: Responsibilities, essentials, clothing, winter risk mitigation, reasonable trip planning with map, compass and optional GPS, snow cave and tent camping, cooking, climbing steep slopes with minimum gear and skills, identification of possible avalanche risk and more. Meet new friends,
This class is similar to winter basic mountaineering training provided by many major mountaineering clubs in the United States.
Read the Prospectus.   Ice Axe Arrest and of  Technical Steep Snow Climbing.
We are limiting this class to about 10 participants. No drop-ins please! Cost is $20.00. Prepaid Reservations only, by April 10, 2008!
Information from Instructor Robert Speik at 541-385-0445, info@traditionalmountaineering.org See the photos of this gear.

        
Illustrations from Mountaineering: The Freedom of the Hills

Videos by the Mountaineering Council of Scotland 
See video of the correct way to belay and arrest
See video of Roping Up For Glaciers
See video of Crevasse Rescue

  Sunday, April 20, 2008, 9 AM to about 3 PM, Free Seminar and Practice near Mt. Bachelor
Climbing and descending steep snow slopes, ice axe belay and arrest and crevasse rescue! FULL with 18 mountaineers!
We will meet near the Mt. Bachelor parking lot at about 9AM. From there we will a short hike on consolidated snow to certain appropriate slopes for steep snow climbing skills and ice axe belay/arrest practice, skills needed for Aconcagua, Hood, Shasta, Jefferson, Adams, and all the others. Learn about skills and gear for rope protected climbing and rappelling steep snow, rock and ice slopes on major peaks, avalanche risk avoidance, crevasse rescue gear and set-up. Designed for basic to advanced participants.
Read the Prospectus. See the photos of Ice Axe Arrest and of Technical Steep Snow Climbing.
Participants must have their own climbing helmet (no bike helmets), mountaineering length ice axe, climbing harness and belay device.
Participants must have the positions and method of instruction for snow climbing and Ice axe belay and arrest in mind.
We are limiting this class to about 10 participants. No drop-ins please! Reservations only, by April 10, 2008!
Information from Leader Robert Speik at 541-385-0445, info@traditionalmountaineering.org.  See the photos of this event!

    
  Friday and Saturday, to be announced, 2009, Free Seminar and Practice near Mt. Bachelor
Snow camping from bivy to base camp! We will do this overnight in January 2009!
Learn and employ skills and gear for safer bivy to base camp fun in deep snow near parked cars and privies! This basic to advanced training can be completed in this interesting FREE overnight seminar. Handouts will include a printed summary of the class information.
This is a FREE outdoor, hands-on, interactive skills Seminar with Robert Speik.

Reserve your places! We are limiting this class to "10 or so" participants!
For more information and to join this free Seminar: email info@traditionalmountaineering.org or call Robert Speik at 541-385-0445.
See a recent flyer!  See the recent Prospectus!  See our photos of this Seminar!

Sunday and Monday, April 20-21, 2008, Banff Mountain Film Festival at Summit High School
"The Banff Mountain Film Festival is an international competition featuring the world's best films and videos on mountain and adventure subjects. Experience the adventure of climbing, mountain expeditions, remote cultures, and the world’s last great wild places –all brought to life on the big screen. The Banff Mountain Film Festival is a fundraiser for the Mt. Bachelor Ski Education Foundation." For more information, call 541-388-0002. See the list of films. See you on Monday night.

Monday, April 21, 2008, 6 PM at the Redmond Library
"The National Weather Service needs volunteers to provide severe weather reports. Spotters relay their reports to the Weather Service as they see it. This information is used by forecasters to track storms and alert the public to dangerous weather situations. Time and time again, reports from trained weather spotters have saved countless lives, especially during heavy rain, thunderstorms and wind storms. This two-hour course will include information about the National Weather Service, tornadoes, thunderstorms, flash floods, dust storms, high winds and winter storms. Students who complete the course will receive a training certificate." See our Weather Spotter page

Thursday, April 24, 7 PM, FREE Patagonia Movie Presentation at Pine Mountain Sports
Take a unique virtual journey through Northern Patagonia, discovering enchanting beauty, world-class fly fishing, and the deep history and hospitality Chileans are famous for. RSVP required, due to limited seating: Call 385-8080 or email Michelle.

Friday, April 25, 2008, Arbor Day
Plant a Ponderosa to replace one of those cut down in Bend last year. Then wait 200 to 300 years for this "renewable resource" to grow to replacement size.

Week of April 27 to May 3, 2008, National Volunteer Week
600 Mazamas give 44,000 hours of their precious time, annually. Mazama volunteer time reflects a value of over $800,000 and 24 staff positions! Thanks to our army of volunteers, Mazamas led 800 hikes and 357 climbs, taught 17 courses in mountaineering and first aid to 1200 students, and offered 12 outings around the world.

Sunday, April 27, 2008, 9 AM to 4 PM, Alder Creek Paddle Festival and Sale at McKay Park on the Deschutes
This annual sale is a great opportunity to see boats, try them out and get advice from the experts at Alder Creek. See our photos of an earlier event.

Wednesday, April 30, 2008 9 to 5, Seniors FREE at the High Desert Museum
Special Events of the Day Include: 10:15 & 1:00 Wildlife Show Rehearsals; sneak peak as we train animals for our summer show: 1:00 to 3:00 - 1880 High Desert Homestead Ranch; Transport yourself back in time and meet the residents of the historic high desert portraying life on an 1880's Homestead Ranch. Join them in tending to daily chores about the cabin, cooking supper or panning for gold. There is plenty of help needed around the ranch stead, lend a hand and experience life 125 years ago.
11:30 Wolves in the High Desert.

MONTH OF MAY 2008

Friday, May 2, 2008, 5:30 PM, First Friday Art Walk in downtown Bend, Oregon
The streets of Bend fill with art patrons on the first Friday of every month as Downtown Bend and Old Mill District art galleries stay open late with receptions for guest artists and special presentations of new exhibits. See the photographs of friend Clyde Keller near the Tower Theater on Wall Street near Minnesota. Watch for the ONDA folks if you have questions about the Badlands Wilderness.

Saturday, May 3, 2008, 10:00 AM, Fobbits Fence Pull in the Badlands
The First Fobbit Fence Pull in the Badlands is scheduled for May 3, 2008, starting from the Obernolte Trailhead, 1/2 mile south of Dodds Road. We'd be glad to have experienced fence pullers sign up and those who have not removed fence before. Tools will be provided and it doesn't take long to learn how to roll and coil. Obernolte Trailhead off Dodds Road. Limit 20 members and guests: RSVP to http://volunteerism.meetup.com/143/

Saturday and Sunday, May 3 and 4, 2008, The 17th Annual Smith Rock Spring Thing
This two day event focuses on restoration projects to protect and enhance the Smith Rock State Park area. Registration is at 8 AM by the main fee station at Smith Rock State Park. Parking passes included for all volunteers  Free dinner for volunteers starts at 6 PM with video of the day's events, and the ever popular auction and raffle. Photos.  Photos of last years event.   More photos!  See photos of a recent event.  Volunteers party 2006.

Monday, May 5, 2008, Cinco de Mayo
Help celebrate the rich history of Mexican Americans!

Saturday, May 10, 2008, Barack Obama in Bend, Oregon at Summit High School
Doors open: 9:30 AM, Program begins: 11:30. The event is free and open to the public; however, seating is limited and tickets are required. Admission is on a first-come, first-served basis. Limited tickets are available for the event and can be picked up from noon to 9 PM at the following location on Friday May 9, 2008: Obama for America Office in Bend,  373 NE Greenwood Ave., Bend, Oregon.  See our photos of the Bend Town Hall Meeting.  Day by day  See photos of our 2007 Peace March in Bend.
See Barack in Oregon. See Barack with 75,000 Americans in Portland.

Saturday, May 10, 2008, Alder Springs hike with The Sierra Club
Don't miss this fantastic hike. Meet 9:00 am, hike Alder Springs approx. 8 miles, moderate. Beautiful canyon rock formations and wildflowers. One stream crossing (bring rubber sandals and/or hiking stick). For information call Robert Speik 541-385-0445.  Be aware!

Saturday, May 10, 2008 at 8:30 AM 2008, NW Hikers Annual hike to Alder Creek
It's Spring in the High Desert. The hike takes us down the valley of Wychus Creek to its junction with the Deschutes River. From the trailhead we drop some 400 feet into the canyon then hike approximately 4 miles to the junction of the two rivers. On the way we pass some great lava formations, ford the creek and finally pass through a stretch of forest that's more reminiscent of Costa Rica than Central Oregon. The highpoint of the day is fording the creek. It is about 20 feet wide, knee deep and can be bitterly cold. It is a good idea to bring some water sandals for this. For moderately fit hikers. This is an 8 mile hike with all of the uphill in the last mile. The hike also involves fording a 20 foot wide creek. --Nahid and Tom Ryan.  Be Aware!

Saturday, May 10: 9:00 AM - 2:00 PM, Deschutes River Clean-Up, Meet at the Les Schwab Amphitheatre
"Come join the Upper Deschutes Watershed Council and the Deschutes River Conservancy to keep our river and its riparian area clean! Do your part during the Deschutes River Clean-Up and feel great about contributing to the health of the river. Meet at the Les Schwab Amphitheatre at 9:00 AM for bagels, coffee, & juice. Learn about all of the different clean-up sites, and then head out at 10:00 AM with a team leader for a few hours of service, smiles, and stewardship. Information: 633-3765."

May 11, 2008, Mother's Day

Tuesday, May 13, 2008, Editor/Photographer George Wuerthner will discuss his new book, "Thrillcraft"
He will show photos documenting the havoc and destruction wreaked to our natural environment by ATVs, dirt bikes, monster trucks, dune buggies, jet skis, etc. 
He'll talk about the psychology of "motorized wreckreation" and issues of liberty and responsibility, fascination with machine power, estrangement from nature, and frustrations that induce ORV drivers to abuse the landscape.  6:30 PM social gathering, 7:00 program. Central Oregon Environmental Center, 16 NW Kansas, Bend.

Wednesday, May 14, 5:30pm at Silver Moon, Brewery Badlands 'n Brews volunteer meeting!
Oh, how time flies when we're working hard to make Badlands a Wilderness! At the meeting we'll be basking in the past month's accomplishments, as well as hearing news from the Wyden-front and exploring some new directions for our Badlands campaign. There are some plans in the works, but we would really like to hear from our wonderful, creatively dynamic volunteer base. Yeah, that's YOU!

Wednesday, May 14, 2008 at the Central Oregon Environmental Center Experiences as a Freelance Journalist Presented by Tim Neville
The past year has been a busy one for Tim Neville, a freelance journalist based in Bend who travels the world to write about outdoor adventure for Outside, National Geographic Adventure, and Skiing magazines among others. The string of assignments started last winter when he attempted to build an igloo village deep in the Deschutes National Forest for a story that appeared in Outside's January 2008 issue. From there he was to Chamonix, France, for Skiing magazine to write about speed flying, a sport whereby skiers descend bold lines with modified paragliding wings. That story recently earned him a slot in the 2008 anthology of The Best American Sports Writing. Cascades Mountaineers host the meeting.

Thursday, May 15, 2008, at Bend Community Center, David Barsamian Addresses Public Radio Decline
David Barsamian, renowned media critic, author, lecturer and director of Alternative Radio, will speak on “The Decline and Fall of Public Broadcasting: What Can Be Done About It,” at 7 p.m., Thursday, May 15, at the Bend Community Center, 1036 NE Fifth Street, one block north of Greenwood Avenue. His presentation, part of a week-long Oregon tour, is sponsored by 106.7 KPOV, Bend Community Radio. Admission is $5; refreshments will be available.

Saturday, May 17, 2008, U.S. Bank Pole Pedal Paddle
The U. S. Bank PPP draws racers of every type as teams, pairs and individual participants, alpine ski, cross-country ski, bike, run, canoe/kayak and sprint to the finish, in this competition from Mt. Bachelor to the finish line at Les Schwab Amphitheater in the Old Mill District near downtown Bend. Division starts the alpine ski leg at 9:15AM. Spectator festivities start at 11AM at the Les Schwab Amphitheater area of the Old Mill District and include food & beverage booths, sponsor booths with everything from apparel to raffles, live music and a Beer Garden. For more information, call Mt. Bachelor Ski Education Foundation at 541-388-0002. See all stages of the new PPP course. Candid photos at the 2006 finish.

Saturday, May 17, 2008, 10 AM,. FREE, Hike the historic Huntington Wagon Road
Join John Frye from the Deschutes County Historical Museum in a guided hike of the Historic Huntington Wagon Road, Central Oregon’s piece of the Oregon Trail. Learn the history of the Native Americans, adventurers, soldiers and immigrants who passed this way long ago. Visit the campsite where obsidian arrowheads have been found. See the Target Tree where bullets dating from 1869 were removed. It’s an easy 2 mile hike in sandy soil. Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring water. To get there, between Bend and Redmond on Hwy 97 go east at the Deschutes Market Overpass, turn left just after the railroad tracks on Morrill Road. Turn right on McGrath Road. Stay on McGrath for approximately 2 miles until it turns to gravel. The trailhead is on the right just past the fence. For more information contact Jeff Boyer 317-9115

Sunday, May 18, 2008, Pond Skimming Championships 2008
The 7th Annual North American Pond Skimming Championships return to Mt. Bachelor. The Liberty Bank Pond Skimming Championships brings brave (and slightly crazy) skiers and riders from all over the region and country. Each participant has one goal- cross the icy pond successfully- and, with luck and skill, showing off style and costume! To raise the stakes Mt. Bachelor will be raffling off a 2008-2009 Unlimited Season Pass for all participants. See our photos of Pond Skimming.

Wednesday May 21, 2008, 5 to 8 PM, Travel Management Plans & OHV Routes & Regulations for the Deschutes & Ochoco National Forests:
An informational public open house at the Deschutes National Forest Supervisor's Office, this is a display rather than a set presentation, so this can be viewed at any time
between 5 to 8 as a casual walk-through with discussions with agency staff there to answer questions and accept comments. Scoping comments on the coming EIS are preferred by or before June 15. Please contact Asante Riverwind for the Sierra Club conservation concerns, perspectives, and to help address Travel Management Plans and OHV issues. Asante Riverwind, Eastern Oregon Forest Organizer, Oregon Chapter Sierra Club, (541) 322-4065 office, (541) 306-7737 field.

Saturday, May 24, 2008, FREE Central Oregon Saturday Market
In Downtown Bend, at the parking lot across from Library between Bond and Wall St. Every Saturday, May 24-Sept. 6, 2008


Sunday, May 25, 2008, Modest Mouse in concert at the Amphitheater
Les Schwab Amphitheater's Wells Fargo Bend Summer Concerts celebrates Memorial Day Weekend with a show featuring Modest Mouse with The National and The Breeders. Show at /6:30pm and Gates open at 5pm; $35/General Admission, plus Ticketmaster fees.

Monday, May 26, 2008, Memorial Day!

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We respect and support our nation's full time professional military forces and the all the men and women of the Army Reserve and National Guard
who have been called away from their civilian lives for extended duty, fighting and dieing
for their elected Commander in Chief.
These men and women and their families are carrying a disproportionate share of the burden of this "preemptive" war.

Tuesday, May 27, 2008, Senator Ron Wyden will hold a press event at the Badlands to talk about moving forward with Badlands Wilderness legislation.
"It is pretty rare for a Senator to make a visit to a specific area, so supporters of Badlands Wilderness are anticipating good news!

The event will be held at 10 AM at the Badlands Rock Trail Head. To get there, head East on Hwy. 20 out of Bend and turn left approximately 1/2 mile after Milepost 17. There is a sign on the highway marking the trail head entrance, but there will also be signs along the way to direct attendees to the event. Please arrive by 9:45am.

We're encouraging everyone to carpool or take one of the buses we'll be providing to the Badlands. The buses leave from the Mt. Bachelor Park and Ride lot (at the corner of SW Simpson and Colorado) at 9:30am, so please get there by 9:20am to park and get a space on the bus. The buses should return by 11:30 AM. Please contact Gena at ONDA (gena@onda.org, 330-2638) if you would like to reserve a seat on the bus, as space will be limited." See our photos and story soon!

Friday, Saturday and Sunday, May 30 to June 1, 2008, High Cascades Volunteers FREE Training Weekend near Sisters, Oregon  FULL
The High Cascade Forest Volunteers annual training events in the spring prepare you to help volunteer on trails in the Deschutes and Willamette National Forests. Please have a look and see if there is something you'd like to learn to help keep our Cascade forest trails open and in good shape.
Click here http://www.fs.fed.us/r6/willamette/admin/volunteer/training/index.html , and click here: http://www.fs.fed.us/r6/willamette/admin/volunteer/index.html 
To Reserve a place contact Judy Mitchell at 541-225-6319 or email her at hayjudy@comcast.net

Note: I participated in a similar weekend of free training in 1994 and became a Volunteer Backcountry Ranger, hiking all over the Three Sisters Wilderness for the next three summers!  I participated with Judy's Volunteer Training Weekend last year, teaching about 60 people about Staying Found with Map, Compass and GPS. This year I am learning more about Wilderness trail construction.  See photos of this last year's event. There is a lot to learn! Remember, "He who knows naught, knows not that he knows naught". You will see our trails with new eyes.
See our photos of this years event.  --Robert Speik

 

 

 

MONTH OF JUNE 2008

Sunday, June 1, 2008, 9 AM, Heaven Can Wait Run 5K Run in Drake Park
5K starting and finishing in Bend's beautiful Drake Park. The course takes you south toward the historic Old Mill District and Mill Point Business Park, winds back through McKay Park and residential neighborhoods, and returns to Drake Park where festivities and the finish line await. The route is mostly flat with hills on Columbia and Shevlin-Hixon. The course will be well marked. Registration and packet pick up 7:30-8:30 am/Gather for race 8:40am /Race Starts 9am/Survivor picture at finish line 10:30am/Awards & Prizes 10:45am.

Saturdays in 2008, Free Deschutes Brewery Tours!
From noon to 4pm enjoy a tour through the brewery and visit the tasting room. Special arrangements may be made by calling 541-385-8606, 901 SW Simpson.

Sundays, June 1st, 8th, 15th, 22nd & 29th, 2008 Free Summer Sundays Concerts at the Les Schwab Amphitheater
This FREE Sunday concert starts at 2:30 and ends at 4:30 PM. All musicians are world class and would typically require a ticket to see elsewhere. Bring your pup, your kids, your grandparents and your picnic to enjoy some great tunes and family time on the banks of the Deschutes River.

Tuesday, June 3, 2008, 7 PM, Sergei Khrushchev on "Can Russia Have Two Tsars?" at the Tower Theater
Cost: $15 general reserved, $25 premier reserved, including a post-event reception with Khrushchev

Wednesdays, June 4th, 11th, 18th & 25th, 2008, Free Bend Farmers' Market at the Brooks Street Riverfront Plaza at Mirror Pond
Every Wednesday June 4th -Oct. 8th, 10:00 AM.

Friday, June 6, 2008, Free First Friday Gallery Walk
The streets of Bend fill with art patrons on the first Friday of every month as Downtown Bend and Old Mill District art galleries stay open late with receptions for guest artists and special presentations of new exhibits. The First Friday experience also includes musical performances and refreshments at selected galleries. 5-9pm.

Saturday, June 7, 2008, Volunteer to help brush out the trail at Tumalo Falls
"Thanks to all who attended the Allingham trail work training session last weekend--it was a great success thanks to your super participation. Here is your first opportunity to take the next step to help the trails! Even those of you who couldn't make it to the training, here is your chance to learn about brushing by helping clear a trail in need.

Frank Huebsch is leading a work party this Saturday to clear the first 1/2 mile of the North Fork Trail at Tumalo Falls. There is a lot of brushing and limbing to do to prevent this spectacular trail from becoming completely overgrown. If you are available to help, please contact Frank at FJHrun@aol.com no later than this Thursday. Join the fun and see the spectacular spring snow run off leaping over the falls AND help many others enjoy this great trail." --John Schubert, Trails Specialist & Volunteer Coordinator
Deschutes National Forest jschubert@fs.fed.us 541-383-4743.

Saturday and Sunday, June 7 and 8, 2008, Balloons Over Bend
"Grab your blankets and chairs and watch the majestic show as over 20 hot air balloons, soar simultaneously from the ground, coloring the skies of Bend. The balloons will launch from Jewell Elementary with a festival and Night Glow happening along the river at The Shops in the Old Mill. See our photos of an earlier event.

Volunteer Opportunities with the Deschutes Land Trust courtesy of Rod Bien of Patagonia by Pandoras Backpack
The Land Trust's mission is to work cooperatively with landowners to conserve land for wildlife, scenic views and local communities. Their vision includes:
-Healthy lands that support diverse populations of native plants and wildlife
-Communities that are closely engaged with the land, that value the natural world, treat it with respect and are invested in its futures
-A region that, even as it grows, retains its natural attributes forever.
The Land Trust has conserved more than 7,200 acres in Central Oregon since 1995.

Here are a few of the upcoming volunteer opportunities with the Deschutes Land Trust.

Tuesday Weed Warriors
When: June 3, 10, 17, 24 2008
Time: 10am-3pm
Join fellow outdoor lovers and Land Trust friends to fight invasive species. Work will begin at 10am and includes an hour break for a brown bag lunch and socializing. Come for the whole day or just part. Contact Larry Weinberg to register, (541) 610-9023 or larry@deschuteslandtrust.org

Indian Ford Meadow Aspen fencing and potluck
When: June 7, 2008
Time: 9:30am-12pm
Join the Deschutes Land Trust at Indian Ford Meadow Preserve near Sisters to help fence a restored aspen stand and then stay for a potluck. Or just come for the potluck at noon. Either way help celebrate the restoration of Indian Ford's aspen stand! Registration required, please call (541) 330-0017 or visit www.deschuteslandtrust.org. FREE!

Dirty Half Trail Run
When: June 8, 2008
Time: 7:30am-12pm (shorter shifts available)
This fun event is a benefit for the Land Trust and we'll need lots of folks to help in a variety of ways. No running involved! We need folks to help with bag stuffing, aid station staffing, start and finish line help, bike corral parking and more. Contact Sarah Mowry if you're interested in helping, (541) 330-0017 or sarah@deschuteslandtrust.org

Wednesday, June 11th at the Central Oregon Environmental Center, Cascades Mountaineers Meeting
Members will show slides of their recent adventures.

Second Saturday Weed Warriors
When: June 14, 2008
Time: 10am-3pm
Join fellow outdoor lovers and Land Trust friends to fight invasive species. Work will begin at 10am and includes an hour break for a brown bag lunch and socializing. Come for the whole day or just part. Contact Larry Weinberg to register, (541) 610-9023 or larry@deschuteslandtrust.org
For more information, visit http://www.deschuteslandtrust.org. Top volunteers will receive cool Patagonia gifts.

Saturday, June 7, 2008, Badlands, Bluegrass, Burritos and Bitter
"Learn more about the Oregon Badlands on National Trails Day. Friends of the Badlands and Pine Mountain Sports invite local residents to celebrate with a trip to the Oregon Badlands for an educational hike followed by festivities held outdoors at Pine Mountain Sports.

“The Oregon Badlands, a 30,000 acre high desert gem containing fascinating lava flows, ancient junipers and Native American pictographs, is just fifteen miles east of Bend,” says David Eddleston of Friends of the Badlands. “On a recent visit to Central Oregon, Senator Wyden pledged to introduce Badlands Wilderness legislation into the Senate. This is exciting news for local residents who would like to see this area protected.”

The National Trails Day event, dubbed Badlands, Bluegrass, Burritos and Bitter, is designed to help those interested to find out more about the Badlands, its hiking trails, flora and fauna, and why Central Oregonians might want to help protect it as a Wilderness area.

The event will begin at 9:30 a.m. with a shuttle ride from Pine Mountain Sports to the Oregon Badlands where participants will hike and learn about the area proposed as a Wilderness Area. Two separate hikes, 3.5 – 4 hours in duration, will depart from the Flatiron Trailhead and the Badlands Rock Trailhead. At 2:00 p.m., shuttles will return hikers to Pine Mountain Sports.

The day will conclude with a gathering with burritos, a special Badlands Bitter Double Bad brew from Silver Moon Brewing and live bluegrass music by Bend 'n Strings at Pine Mountain Sports. The party, from 3:00 p.m. to 5 p.m., will also include a short program presented by David Eddleston of Friends of the Badlands, and a raffle with prizes donated by Pine Mountain Sports.

$10/person includes round-trip shuttle from Pine Mountain Sports, guided hike, live bluegrass music, burritos, and a special Badlands Bitter by Silver Moon. $5 fee for 3:00 p.m. onwards includes bluegrass, burritos and beer. RSVP required for the hike due to limited shuttle space. Visit Pine Mountain Sports to save your spot, or call 385-8080 for more information."

Sunday, June 8, 2008, Footzone Dirty Half Marathon
At Phil's Trail area, Bend. Sign up at the Footzone in downtown Bend.

Tuesday to Thursday, June 13 to 15, 2008, 68th Annual Sisters Rodeo & Parade, KOA Campground, Sisters
This is the 68th year for one of the most popular rodeos on the West Coast circuit. Held in a rodeo arena with scenic views of the
Three Sisters Wilderness, this is a family fun event!

Saturday, June 14, 2008, Sutton Mountain hike free with the Sierra Club
Meet 9:00 am, hike Sutton Mountain, approx. 6 miles, moderate. Explore this Wilderness Study Area above the painted hills and watch for hedgehog cactus which may be blooming. Wear comfortable boots and appropriate clothing for the weather for all hikes. Bring plenty of water and your lunch. Meet at a designated location and voluntarily carpool to the trailhead. The trip officially starts at the trailhead. Call leader Alison Hamway, 382-2035, for meeting location and to confirm your attendance.

June 16-22: Commute Options Week
More information soon.

Sunday, June 17, 2008, Father's Day! 

Saturday, June 21, 2008, First Day of Summer! 

  Saturday, June 21, 2008, 9AM to about noon,
 "Staying found in the Backcountry with Map, Compass and GPS, together"
You just can’t “stay found” with GPS alone! You need the right map and a compass too. But how do you use them together, for a day hike, a backpack, a hunt or a mountain bike adventure?

We will talk about USGS Quad maps ($7) and affordable TOPO map computer programs ($99), that help you print your own small maps. Free Forest Service maps at Trail Heads have UTM Grid lines and give you important locations in UTM NAD27 coordinates. Your GPS will give an exact position on your map, not possible with Lat-Lon grids. How do you use these maps and grids?

We will talk about how to use a simple base plate Compass ($30), not to just point to North, but to plot a bearing back to car or camp using the compass on the map as a simple protractor

A simple Garmin eTrex H GPS ($99) is just as accurate as a GPS costing $650. There are just five basic pages needed to find your way, to find a location on the map and to plot the way back along trails, traces and contours. Those participants who have a GPS will learn how to use these pages.

Our proprietary Power Point program covers all the information. Then, with a five page workbook, we will work in pairs and threes on drills and real life situations. Handouts include an eleven page printed summary too. We provide the maps; you can use your compass and GPS or try ours.

Cost per student is $35.00, benefiting the not-for-profit website www.TraditionalMountaineering.org.  (Call for the couples discount and scholarships.)

For more information and to hold a place, email info@traditionalmountaineering.org or call Robert Speik at 541.385.0445.
Print the flyer for a friend.  See photos of a recent class.   See photos of a USFS Volunteer Training.  See this year's February class!

Recent rescues, tragedies spur hiker-safety reminders on KTVZ
Check KTVZ.com for this segment!  

June 21-22, 2008, all day, free, Bite of Bend in downtown Bend Oregon
Bend's premiere food festival celebrates its 6th year. Featuring more than 40 restaurants, coffee, dessert and local beer and wine tents.
See our prior photos of this event.

Monday, June 23, 2008 at 9 PM, WebCyclery Movie Night at McMenamins
Join WebCyclery for a special screening of one of the most anticipated mountain bike films of 2008. The Central Oregon premiere of Seasons! Seasons is a film that follows seven of the worlds top mountain bikers through the course of four seasons of one year. The film explores what it means to be a full time rider as told through the lives of downhill racers, slope style competitors, and big mountain free riders. Seasons features some of the most amazing riding and scenic footage of any mountain bike film to date. The way in which the film was made is nearly as amazing as the riding itself. Check out the link below to get a glimpse of what's in store. While WebCyclery Movie Night at McMenamins is a fund raiser for Central Oregon Trail Alliance, it is mostly an excuse to get together with 120 like-minded cyclists to watch an extraordinary bicycle movie, drink your favorite beverage, and get a chance to win some exciting door prizes from Helly Hansen. 21 years and older! Contact: Henry Abel - 541-318-6188.

Thursday, June 26, 2008,  7 PM Tower Theatre, Spirit of the Marathon
A benefit for Girls on the Run of Deschutes County, this award winning film, Spirit of the Marathon, is the first ever non-fiction feature film to capture the drama and essence of the famed 26.2 mile running event. Tickets are on sale for $10 at the box office, on-line at www.towertheatre.org or by calling (541) 317-0700!

Friday, June 27, 2008, 5 PM, FREE, Deschutes Brewery 20th Anniversary Celebration
Location: Deschutes Brewery & Public House 1044 NW Bond Street. Join us at the pub where it all started 20 years ago for burgers,
beers and live music on our "back patio."

Friday to Sunday, June 27 to 29, 2008, The Pacific Crest Sports Festival in Sunriver
Each year, during the last weekend in June, athletes, joined by their family and friends, converge on the Sunriver area to take part in the Pacific Crest Sports Festival. 2008 marks the 12th year for this event that is expected to draw 4,000+ athletes. The Pacific Crest Sports Festival includes the Half Iron Triathlon, Endurance Duathlon, Marathon & Half Marathon, Olympic Distance Triathlon & Duathlon, 5K & 10K Run/Walks, and a Kid's Splash Pedal-n-Dash Triathlon. The Half-Ironman is the TRI NorthWest Long Course Championship. The Marathon is a Boston Qualifier. Want to volunteer? Attend the Volunteer Pizza Feed, hand out water to the racers and enjoy this event!  To volunteer and be part of this event, call Bob Speik at 385-0445.  Race weekend information here.  Photos of a past event.