MONTH OF JANUARY 2009

Thursday, January 1, 2009, New Years Day!
Friends of the Badlands "New Years Day Resolution Ramble", Badlands Wilderness Study Area, January 1, 2009.
The Fobbits will be on "The New Years Day Resolution Ramble", in the Badlands Wilderness Study Area on January 1, 2008, resolving to keep up our stewardship role in the Badlands. The Resolution Ramble will start at Larry Chitwood Trailhead, just off Dodds Road and hike in about a mile and a half south on the Eastern Loop, (sounds confusing but it really ain't)! We'll then hike off-trail to the West, for about a 3/4 mile, to a unique formation, and then loop back to the trailhead. It's about three miles in total. Hot drinks, and those adult ones, think Scottish, toasting in the New Year, and dessert will be served on the unique volcanic formation, which has great 360 degree views. Join the Fobbits Meetup Group: http://www.meetup.com/www-Fobbits-FriendsoftheBadlands-org/calendar/9380947/

Friday, January 2, 2009, 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, 2009, 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.

Wednesday, January 7, 2009, 7pm, Bend Hiking Meetup Group, Pub Night to plan fall hikes at the BBC
Tom Ryan says: "Let's meet to plan some hikes for the fall season. Come along with your suggestions for hikes and I'll put them on the calendar." Not a Member? Drop by and check us out!

January 7, 2009 to February 18, Pt. 1 Traveling Basics, March 4 to 25, 2009, Pt. 2 Integration/Conversation: French for Travelers Class with Hilloah
If you’re traveling to France and would like to go with a better knowledge of the language and culture, this 7 week, small group class could be just for you! We will cover the basics for getting around airports, train stations, restaurants, hotels, & shops. This course is great for the person with little or no experience. Part 2 integrates using Part 1 with conversation. We will work out of a book and handouts. 6:00 – 7:30 pm Wednesdays, $120 for Part 1 / $80 for Part 2  For information: Hilloah Rohr M.S., hzr@bendbroadband.com, http://www.hilloah.com, 541 330 6621

Thursday, January 8, 2009, 6:30 Coffee, 7pm meeting time, Deschutes Democrats at the Central Oregon Environmental Center
Come celebrate our volunteers and our election successes! Get an update on how our organization will be moving forward! Learn about the February election of officers! It's time for the Deschutes Democrats to reorganize and give others the opportunity to take on leadership roles. The election of new officers will take place at our February 12, 2009 meeting. Our current officers do not intend to continue in office. We are looking for people who will continue to build the party and infuse new ideas into the organization. There are no "insider" candidates - the field is wide open. The new officers will inherit a healthy treasury, a database of hundreds of volunteers and support from past officers. Please don't be shy - step forward and get involved.

Friday, January 9 to 11, 2009, Strong Medicine Exhibit - High Desert Museum
From Sweat Lodges to Snake Oil: A Century of High Desert Remedies Faced with the perils of life on the remote High Desert frontier, pioneers were forced to devise novel ways of gaining relief from injury and sickness. Vast expanses of treacherous terrain and the dangers associated with raising livestock and other animals left the area’s early inhabitants in dire, constant need of health care.

Tuesday, January 14, 2009, 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 15th year representing Mountaineering as a member of this USFS Advisory Committee!)

Wednesday, January 14, 2009, 7pm, Cascades Mountaineers host Cathy Sassin and Aaron Lish, at the Environmental Center
Cathy Sassin, is a sports nutritionist and a Legend in the Adventure Racing World. Aaron Lish is a COCC outdoor recreation Instructor. The subject will be endurance training for climbing.

HOW DO YOU FIND YOUR WAY BACK IN UNEXPECTED BLOWING SNOW?

Seventeen people braved the snow storms last year!
  Saturday, January 17, 2009, 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? How do you find your way back when blowing snow has covered your tracks. How do you actually use that GPS anyway?

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 $750. 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 $40.00,  benefiting the not-for-profit website www.TraditionalMountaineering.org.  Ask about couples discounts, scholarships, etc.

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 a recent class.  See photos of USFS Volunteer Training.  See last year's class!

Saturday January 24, 2009,  2pm, “BEST OF THE ALPS” photo presentation at Bend Public Library, Sunriver Public Library on Sunday January 25 at 2pm.
European hiking & cultural guide, Hilloah Rohr will be presenting a virtual tour through the Berner Oberland including the Tour of the Jungfrau, La Vanoise Park National and the Italian Langa wine region. In addition she will include a special collage of some of her best photos with music. For more information please see: http://www.hilloah.com or call 541 330 6621.

Tuesday, January 27, 2009, 9pm, at McMenamin's, The Backcountry Film Festival Comes to Bend!
Bend Backcountry Alliance is bringing The Backcountry Film Festival to Bend! Enjoy an evening of backcountry skiing films that will invigorate, inform and leave you dreaming about the bliss of winter adventures. Win prizes from outdoor industry sponsors, enjoy great people and support a worthy cause! The festival showcases thought-provoking films from grassroots filmmakers that will inform you about backcountry and environmental issues as well as entertain you with exceptional skiing. Doors will open at 8:30.

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 the photos of last years event!

  Saturday, January 31, 2009, "Real Backcountry Survival Strategies",
a presentation for 100 Eastern Oregon 4H high school students by Robert Speik
The Oregon State University Extension Service Deschutes County 4-H Program has asked me again this year, to teach 4-H kids and parents about exactly how to "be prepared". I think we will have a lot of fun. Again, everyone knows to BE PREPARED but exactly how do you do this?

MONTH OF FEBRUARY 2009

February 3rd until March 31st, Learn How to Build a Wooden Kayak or Canoe with Greg Bridges
Learn how to build a fine wood/epoxy canoe using the strip-built technique. Students will work as a group to build a 15’ Prospector Ranger canoe, originally designed by the Chestnut Canoe Company. Each class session includes hands-on demonstration and application of techniques. Building methods will transfer between kayaks, canoes, duck, and drift boats. Parents with children older than 12 are encouraged to sign up. Greg Bridges teaches the same class through COCC in the fall and has a wait list. For More Information Contact: Greg Bridges (541) 771-2147 gregbridges@bendbroadband.com, Dates: on Tuesdays and alternate Thursdays, Time: 6 pm-9pm, Location: Private Shop in Tumalo. Cost: $220. Starts February 3, 2009. Print the Flyer for a friend.

  Wednesday, February 4, 2009, FREE "Real Backcountry Survival Strategies" 6 to 8pm at the Bend Public Library
Everyone knows to "Be Prepared". Exactly how do you do this? Show and tell for Bend residents by Robert Speik
Everyone knows to "BE PREPARED" but exactly how do you do this? This is not a Survivalist talk. We will have some fun and learn some new stuff.
This FREE talk is offered at the Bend Public Library from 6pm. to 8pm., on a first come first served basis. Please do not call to reserve a place. Best for older teens and for adults who like to hike, hunt, ski, snowshoe and explore in the backcountry. Print the flyer for a friend. (About 30 people attended and we had a great time!)

The months of February and March, 2009, a Display of the Ten Essential Systems at the Deschutes County Library in downtown Bend
In a display case near the Information Desk on the second floor of the library, we have disgorged the Essential contents of a sunny weather winter day pack (near Mt. Bachelor) and added the right boots and snowshoes, the right shoes for light and fast spring crampons (Mt Adams), light poles and a modern ice axe, too. Check it out and pick up the latest Green Card that lists the Four Basic Responsibilities and the Ten Essential Systems for a friend.

Friday, February 6th - 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. In addition, the First Friday experience also
includes musical performances and refreshments at selected galleries. 5-9pm.

Tuesday, February 10, 2009, 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 15th year representing Mountaineering as a human powered Member of this USFS Advisory Committee!)

Tuesday, February 10, 2009, Patagonia by Pandora's Backpack Winterfest Sale Starts Today: Save 40-60%
"Our Winterfest Sale is on! This is your chance to score this season's hidden stash. Starting today, you can save 40-60% on select Patagonia products.* Pick up great gear for the snowy months ahead or take care of next year's holiday shopping while prices are right. Drop in online or at the Patagonia store nearest you. Sale ends February 19, 2009.

Wednesday, February 11, 2009, 7pm Climb Denali with Markian Hawryluk the Central Oregon Environmental Center
In 2007,Reporter Markian Hawryluk climbed Denali, the highest point in North America, sending dispatches to the Bend Bulletin on his way up and down the mountain. Markian will talk about his training for the climb, the gear he took and the logistics of a three-week expedition. He will also show a short video with clips from the climb.

Saturday, February 14, 2009, Traditional Valentines Day!

Wednesday, February 18, 2009, 5 to 6 pm, Robert Speik interviewed on "Open Air" on KPOV 106.7FM
I was asked to give a long interview live on the program Open Air, by Dawn Newton, the hostess. Dawn was a great interviewer, and we talked about the Sport of Alpine Mountaineering, the value of traditional instruction about the Sport, about the Four Basic Responsibilities and the Ten Essential Systems. My wife said it was one of the best interviews she had heard, and it must be so because she is very critical and speaks her mind!

Thursday, February 19, 2009, 10 am to 3 pm, Fobbits Day in the Badlands
We plan to install some trailhead signs provided by BLM. Good fun with like minded folks. Call me for more information!

Saturday, February 21, 2009, Free Family Day at the High Desert Museum
Nationally recognized for telling the story of America's High Desert, the museum offers close-up wildlife encounters, living history
performances and art and cultural exhibitions. Experience this nationally acclaimed treasure for free.

Tuesday, February 24, 2009, WebCyclery Movie Night at McMenamins: PRO - The Movie, 9 pm
Join the crew of WebCyclery for a special Central Oregon screening of PRO, an impressive and honest film that documents the US professional road racer.
PRO follows many of the teams that attended the Wachovia Cycling Series and US PRO in 2004, which includes the Trenton, Lancaster and Philly road races.
While WebCyclery Movie Night at McMenamins is a fund raiser for Central Oregon Trail Alliance (cotamtb.com), it is mostly an excuse to get together with a theater full of like-minded cyclists to watch an outstanding bicycle movie, drink your fave beverage, raise some money for local trails, and maybe win a cool door prize.

Friday, February 27, 2009 Deschutes Polar Plunge
The Polar Plunge is a unique opportunity for individuals, organizations, and businesses to support Special Olympics Oregon athletes by jumping, walking or slowly crawling into the frigid and icy Oregon waters. The event is open to the public, and all spectators are welcome free of charge. Participants must raise a minimum of $50 for the right to take a wintry dip in the river in February and will receive a commemorative long-sleeve t-shirt and a bowl of soup, plus bragging rights!

Friday and Saturday, February 27 and 28, 2009, Telluride Mountain Film Festival
Currently in its 31st year, the MountainFilm Festival is a four-day, six-senses experience of art, adventure, culture and the environment. It attracts filmmakers, photographers, conservationists, mountaineers and explorers from around the world. Telluride Mountain Film Festival is a weekend of high-quality, thought-provoking films about mountain people, culture, adventure and conservation. Tickets are $17.50 in advance per night or $30 for both nights (different shows each night). $20 per show at the door. Purchase your tickets now at www.towertheater.org. This event is a benefit for the Central Oregon Environmental Center. 7:00 PM. Contact: Central Oregon Environmental Center - 541-385-6908.

MONTH OF MARCH 2009

The months of February and March, 2009, a Display of the Ten Essential Systems at the Deschutes County Library in downtown Bend
In a display case near the Information Desk on the second floor of the library, we have disgorged the Essential contents of a sunny weather winter day pack (near Mt. Bachelor) and added the right boots and snowshoes, the right shoes for light and fast spring crampons (Mt Adams), light poles and a modern ice axe, too. Check it out and pick up the latest Green Card that lists the Four Basic Responsibilities and the Ten Essential Systems for a friend.

Friday, March 6, 2009, First Friday Gallery Walk in downtown Bend
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. In addition, the First Friday experience also includes musical performances and refreshments at selected galleries. 5-9pm. The Quons will be at Giuseppe's, 932 NW Bond, Downtown Bend at 7 pm. Photographer Mike Putnam will be at Patagonia from 5 to 8 pm with several of his images.

Sunday, March 8, 2009, time to spring forward!

Tuesday, March 10, 2009, 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 15th year representing Mountaineering as a human powered Member of this USFS Advisory Committee!)

Wednesday, March 11, 2009, 7pm at the Central Oregon Environmental Center, Mountain Link, presented by Robert Link
Robert Link will give a presentation describing his mountaineering guide service, Mountain Link, headquartered in Bend.
From their website: "Mountain Link is a premier international mountaineering guide service offering instructional seminars, guided climbs and expeditions. We lead small groups to destinations all over the world. We have led a number of people to some of the most beautiful places on earth to experience the satisfactions of mountaineering firsthand. Mountain Link participants have created some wonderful memories in the process. Many finish their trip with new friendships and new skills. We are honored that many of our participants come back for another trip with us!"

Thursday, March 12, 2009, Backcountry Navigation, a special class for CS Construction. FULL

Saturday, March 14, 2009, the Grin and Bear It run/walk for Healthy Beginnings
A community fun run providing a 5 and 10K and a one-mile Family Fun Walk or Run through the Old Mill District for Healthy Beginnings. This non-profit provides a 12 point kid inspection program for parents. Check it out at www.healthybeginnings.info

Saturday March 14, 2009, The John Craig Memorial Wilderness ski and tour along McKenzie Pass
"Come ski the Pacific Northwest's most scenic and historic Nordic event. The course traverses the beautiful Cascade Mountains just west of Sisters, Oregon and offers views of Mt. Hood, Mt. Jefferson, Mt. Washington, and the Three Sisters".

Sunday, March 15, 2009, Jim Jam with Mark Quan, 3 pm at Silver Moon Brewing, 24 NW Greenwood, Bend, OR
A very personal event to celebrate the spirit of my best friend Jim Witty. Not a show really, just a big jam session. Bring your instruments, voices, or just your thirst. Be ready for sing-alongs and a lot of fun. --Mark Quan

Tuesday, March 17, 2009, St. Patrick's Day

FREE Navigation Noodle® in The Badlands WSA, near Bend in Central Oregon

Saturday, March 21, 2009, 9AM to 3PM, somewhere in The Badlands east of Bend, Oregon
FREE Navigation Noodle® in the Badlands  RESERVATIONS CLOSED
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  Jim Witty wrote about a Noodle for The Bulletin. 
Limited to 10 people. Basic to Advanced. You must Reserve a place! Call Bob Speik at 385-0445 for your Reservation, the location of the meeting place
and a detailed Prospectus.  Print the Flyer for a friend

Saturday, March 21, 2009, 10am to 12pm, free SKYWARN Weather Spotter Training Class in Bend
The Pendleton National Weather Service Weather Forecast Office will hold a SKYWARN Weather Spotter Training Class in Bend at KOHD TV, 63049 Lower Meadow Drive, Bend The public is invited to attend this free class. Amateur Radio operators are especially encouraged to attend this class. See our comments on Weather Spotter Training.

Friday, March 20, 2009, Spring (Break) begins (already!)

Wednesday and Thursday, noon to noon, March 25 and 26, 2009, Steep Snow Climbing and Camping Skills for Professionals
A FREE outdoor skills class for private group of four Outdoor Professionals. FULL

Thursday, March 26, 2009 and several following days and evenings, Winter Photography Workshop with Robert Algi and Brent McGregor
The three part Workshop includes an evening seminar, a photo field trip on snow machines and an evening critique session, cost not to exceed $225.00. Email Robert Algi at robertalgi@bendcable.com or call 541-382-1705.

HOW DO YOU FIND YOUR WAY BACK IN UNEXPECTED BLOWING SNOW?

  Saturday, March 28, 2009, 9am to about noon at the Environmental Center in downtown Bend
"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? How do you find your way back in the dark or when blowing snow has covered your tracks. How do you actually use that GPS anyway?

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 declination adjustable base plate Compass, not to just point toward 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 $750. 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.  Ask about couples discounts, scholarships, etc.

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 a recent class.  See photos of USFS Volunteer Training.  See last year's class!

MONTH OF APRIL 2009

    
  Saturday and Sunday, April 4 and 5, 2009, Free Seminar and Basic Practice near Mt. Bachelor
FREE Snow camping from bivy to base camp!   RESERVATIONS CLOSED
Learn and employ skills and gear for safe 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 lead by Robert Speik.
Reserve your places! We are limiting this Seminar to "10 or so" participants!  *** In fairness to all, you will need to commit ASAP
For more information and to join this free Seminar: email info@traditionalmountaineering.org or call Robert Speik at 541-385-0445.
See the flyer!  See the Prospectus!  See our photos of this Seminar!

Saturday, April 4, 2009, 1pm to 4pm at the Central Oregon Environmental Center, Cascades Mountaineers Gear Swap
Come and bring those items that have been sitting in your garage for the last few years unused because they were replaced by a newer, lighter, stronger version.

Saturday, April 4, 2009, The Desert Orthopedic Great Nordeen Ski Race near Mt. Bachelor
This race is a celebration of Central Oregon ski history! Just once a year a trail is groomed through 30km of lava flows, hemlock, fir, and pine forest stands in remembrance of Emil Nordeen, the decorated Central Oregon ski pioneer. The manageable terrain and distance makes this point-to-point freestyle race a great event for first time racers and recreational skiers. Beginning at Mt. Bachelor, skiers will tour on the generally downhill course from the Sunrise Lodge to the Wanoga Snow Park. Busses will shuttle competitors back to the Sunrise Lodge. New this year is a category for a 15km Skijoring, and a 15km ski with your dog class. Great Nordeen Trail Map 2009

Afterwards, make sure to attend Saturday night’s post-race festivities. The banquet and awards ceremony will feature food and entertainment, and great raffle prizes. Make sure to purchase banquet tickets with your registration or at the door. Family and friends are very welcome to attend.

Wednesday, April 8, 2009, Cascades Mountaineers Members Slide Show Night at the Central Oregon Environmental Center
Please contact Larry Wallace, larryw@bendbroadband.com, if you are interested in presenting one of your trips, climbs or adventures.
 

April 12, 2009, Easter Sunday

Tuesday, April 14, 2009, 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 15th year representing Mountaineering as a human powered Member of this USFS Advisory Committee!)

Tuesday, April 14, 2009, Two Dollar Tuesdays at McMenamins in downtown Bend:  GRAN TORINO (R)
8:50 pm, $2 per person,  21 & over. "Disgruntled Korean War vet Walt Kowalski sets out to reform his neighbor, a young Hmong teenager, who tried to steal Kowalski's prized possession: his 1972 Gran Torino."

Saturday April 18, 2009, 20th Annual Earth Day Fair at Troy Field -- next to the Bend Environmental Center, corner of Bond and Louisiana
There will be an Earth Day Fair and Procession of the Species Parade which starts at 11am on Louisiana and runs along Bond and Wall back to Troy Field. The parade will end at Troy Field with the traditional drum circle in front of the stage. The Earth Day Fair and Procession of the Species Parade engage all people in a celebration of that which we hold dear, our natural environment. See our photos of Earth Day

Saturday and Sunday, April 18, 5:00 p.m. and April 19, 2009, 4:30 p.m. Mission Wolf at the High Desert Museum
"Look into the eyes of these live, legendary, charismatic predators. Learn about their crucial role in a diverse, balanced ecosystem. A unique educational program from Mission Wolf, a Colorado wolf sanctuary. Plus: • how to talk to your dog like a wolf • "In the Eye of a Wolf," slide show, • the status of wolves and wolf hybrids, • lessons from wolf reintroduction in Yellowstone National Park". This event sells out fast! Tickets: $20. Members, $10. Purchase by phone, 541-382-4754, ext. 241, or at the Museum. See our photos of wolves at the Museum. See our photos of the Museum.

  Saturday, April 25, 2009, 9 AM to about 3 PM, a Fee Class at the Environmental Center in downtown Bend
BASIC WINTER-SPRING MOUNTAINEERING
An indoor, hands-on skills class with Robert Speik: Responsibilities, essentials, clothing, winter-spring 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 Flyer. See the photos of Ice Axe Arrest and of Technical Steep Snow Climbing.
We are limiting this class to 10 participants. No drop-ins please! Cost is $25.00. Reservations only, ASAP!
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 26, 2009, 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!
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. See the pictures of this 2008 event!
Participants must have their own climbing helmet (no bike helmets), mountaineering length ice axe, climbing harness and belay device.
Participants must have the details and method of instruction for snow climbing and Ice axe belay and arrest in mind.

Thursday, April 30 at 7:30pm, Short Film Screening: "Song For The Badlands", " A Tribute to Jim Witty" at Sisters Movie House
This is a beautiful short film about music, friendship and The Badlands. Filmed by Team Homespun, this film was entered in The International Documentary Challenge.
The International Documentary Challenge along with The Sisters Movie House and The Sisters Area Chamber of Commerce will be hosting this screening in Sisters for the four Central Oregon participants as well as Director selected International entries. Call Sisters Movie House for cost and more information.

MONTH OF MAY 2009

May 1 to October 31, 2009, MAZAMA. Summer Climb Schedule!
"Welcome to the Mazamas summer climb schedule, where we list all our climbs" for the season
•If you are new to climbing with the Mazamas, please read the overview of climbing with Mazamas page first to learn about our procedures before you have a look at the schedule below.
•Read more details about all of these routes on the Route Description pages for Mazama members on the password only Member pages.
•Meet your climb leaders on our new Leader Profile pages.
•Members, sign in to activate additional climb schedule features, such as route description links within the climb schedule. New features will be added to the schedule for members periodically."
Webmeister's note: Join the Mazamas for quality Club training, companionship and trips of all levels, led by trained, tested and dedicated volunteer leaders in the best Traditional Mountaineering  - tradition! --Robert Speik 
Go to the Mazamas Climb Schedule: http://www.mazamas.org/your/adventure/starts-here/C87/

Sunday, May 3, 2009, King and Queen of the Cone, a new race event in Bend!
 "Mt. Bachelor and Pine Mt. Sports in Bend are promoting a new event on May 3rd. The King and Queen of the Cone is a benefit for the Central Oregon Environmental Center. A great course in a beautiful area of the country - it's a good way to end the season with a race and some backcountry skiing in Oregon." This new event in Bend is organized by Kevin Grove. (Kevin's wife Molly Grove won the women's competition!)

Monday, May 4, 21009, Free Day for Seniors Age 60+ at the High Desert Museum
Special wildlife programs, cultural tours, historical re-enactors, Sponsored by Harmony – Living and Rehabilitation, Starview Foundation and KTVZ.
See our Museum here    See the wolves at the Museum here

Thusday, May 7, 2009, 7 pm at COCC's Boyle Center, "Atop the Condor, Climbing and Wandering in the Bolivian Andes", a free evening with Dennis Hanson
Dennis Hanson, Bend based financial guru, will show his wonderful slides of incredible local and mountain scenery in the latest of his popular series chronicling his yearly adventures among the great peaks of the world. Get there early!  Click here to print the flyer for your friends

Friday, May 8, 2009, Volunteer Day and fun at The Badlands Wilderness
Thank Teague Hatfield' Foot Zone, Rod Bien's Patagonia by Pandora's Backpack, ONDA and The Conservation Alliance for a day in the field on Friday, May 8 in the NEW Badlands Wilderness from 12pm - 4:30pm. Please RSVP: Teague@footzonebend.com or stop by the store to sign up. The Foot Zone will provide lunch for the first 15 people that sign up! Remember, you must RSVP through one of the sponsors!  See our photos of this event

Saturday, May 9, 2009, the 17th Annual "Spring Thing" at Smith Rock
"Be a part of the 17th Annual Smith Rock “Spring Thing” volunteer day. This one-day event focuses on restoration projects to protect and enhance public lands in and around Smith Rock State Park. The “Spring Thing” will end with a appreciation dinner starting at 6 p.m. The evening celebration will include a slide presentation, prize raffle and fund-raising auction of outdoor gear with proceeds earmarked for future events and projects at Smith Rock State Park." See our photos of recent Spring Thing events

May 10, 2009, Mother's Day

Tuesday, May 12, 2009, TUG Meeting, USFS, Bend Ft-Rock Ranger District, Trail User Group Meeting
We will be meeting at Red Oaks Square at 6:00pm. This is our 15th year representing Mountaineering as a human powered Member of this USFS Advisory Committee!)

Wednesday, May 13, 2009, at the Central Oregon Environmental Center, Kevin Grove
"Kevin Grove will be discussing his amazing adventures during the last two summers. Not only has he worked with world class endurance athletes in a variety of outdoor pursuits (including Steve House; one of a handful of alpinism/mountaineering's vanguard climbers), but Kevin is an accomplished climber and endurance athlete who understands first-hand the specialized training needs of climbers. He has done multi-day back country ski trips in the sierras, was a columnist for The Source Weekly, took third place in the Outdoor Research Randonee Rally Race at Alpental, Washington in 2006, and adventurer extraordinaire."

Saturday, May 17, 2009, 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.

Sunday, May 17, 2009, 11AM to 1PM, The North American Pond Skimming Championships at Mt. Bachelor and Closing Day
"The 8th Annual LibertyBank North American Pond Skimming Championships return to Mt. Bachelor on Sunday, May 17, which is the last day of the season at Mt. Bachelor! Wrap up another epic season at Mt Bachelor, this event has antics like you wouldn't believe. The Liberty Bank North American Pond Skimming Championships brings brave (and slightly crazy) skiers and riders from all over the region and country. Each participant has one dream- of crossing the icy pond successfully- and, if they're lucky, with style! To raise the stakes Mt. Bachelor will be raffling off a 2008-2009 Full Season Pass for all participants. So hopefully that will give you that extra push you need to pull out your costume and take your chances across the Pond! You just like to watch? Well, that makes you sane! Spectators are winners too. Cheer on your favorite pond skimmer and receive schwag throw-outs from our generous sponsors." See our photos of Skimming at Mt. Bachelor.

Saturday and Sunday, May 25 and 26, 2009, Oregon 150 Years Celebration at Smith Rock State Park
A living history event focusing on interpreting the years of the Lewis and Clark expedition of 1805-1806. Costumed actors will camp with period gear over night and use and demonstrate the artifacts of the period, interacting with serious visitors. Cost is FREE with a $3.00 Smith Rock parking charge!

MONTH OF JUNE 2009

Thursday, June 4, 2009, Kristi Miller's Good Morning Central Oregon show about Jim Witty's book
Linda Witty and Mark Quan will be talking with her about the late Jim Witty's soon to be published book "Meet Me In The Badlands: Exploring Central Oregon with Jim Witty" and the fundraising concert this Sunday, June 7th at Summit Saloon and Stage. The airings for Thursday are: Live: 7:15 a.m., Replays:9:15 a.m., Noon 6:00 p.m.

Friday, June 5, 2009, First Friday Gallery Walk in downtown Bend
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. In addition, the First Friday experience also includes musical performances and refreshments at selected galleries. 5-9pm.

Saturday, June 6, 2009, National Trails Day

June 6, 2009, 10 am Stream Stewardship Day, meet at McKay Park A special day for watershed stewards of all ages to get their hands dirty and feet wet. Come join the Upper Deschutes Watershed Council, the Healthy Waters Institute and our partners to help steward our local rivers and streams! Wear sturdy shoes, bring gloves and water and meet at McKay Park at 10:00 for coffee and breakfast goodies. Stewardship site hosts will be available to provide stewardship information and directions to your clean-up site on the Deschutes River, Tumalo Creek, or Whychus Creek. See our picture of previous events

Saturday and Sunday, June 6 and 7, 2009, Balloons Over Bend at the Old Mill District on the Deschutes River
In order to see the LibertyBank Balloons Over Bend hot air balloon launch, you must come in the morning! The hot air balloons lift off around 6:30am each day . If you arrive early, you can walk right down on the field and watch the balloon teams prepare their hot air balloons for lift off. You are in the middle of all the action and it is very exciting. See our photos of this event. Check their Website: http://www.balloonsoverbend.com/

Sunday, June 7, 2009, 3 pm, Jim Witty Book Celebration at the Summit Saloon & Stage
"The Moon Mountain Rambler members Jenny Harada, Joe Schulte and Matt Hyman are headlining this event. The Quons with the talented Brian Hanson will kick things off at 3:00 p.m. A silent auction will be held during the event with a Breedlove guitar as the showcase item. There have been many other generous auction items donated - too many to list. You can see all of the items and updated book info at www.outings.webs.com  The cover fee is $10 to hear some great music. All proceeds go to help pay for publication costs. Proceeds from the book will benefit Jim's sons and widow. The Summit Saloon & Stage, 125 NW Oregon, Downtown Bend."

Tuesday, June 9, 2009, 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 15th year representing Mountaineering as a human powered Member of this USFS Advisory Committee!)

Wednesday, June 17, 2009, 4:30 - 9:00 pm, at the Meadow Picnic Area, Summer Picnic & Top rope Mini-Outing, 4:30 pm, Picnic 7:00 pm
Picnic/social Where: Meadow Picnic Area (~1 mile before Inn of the 7th Mountain). NW Forest Pass required to park a vehicle. Carpool if you can. Why: To work up an appetite top roping together, followed by a get-to-know-each-other-better picnic/social at ~ 7pm. Gear For Top roping: Harness, rock shoes & locking carabiner. Picnic: Food will be provided for club members only. If you want to participate in the picnic portion of this event & you are not a member now, you must join the club before the event. Please RSVP Larry so he will know how many people to supply food for. Food Questions: Contact Larry regarding food issues at: larryw@bendbroadband.com or 598-5161. Climbing Questions: Contact Rod regarding climbing issues at: rodj@bendbroadband.com or 318-1075. TraditionalMountaineering sponsored the re-bolting of Meadow Crags

Friday through Sunday, June 12 to 14, 2009, The Sisters Rodeo
Four PRCA Rodeo Performances! This is a very big event in Sisters! Ticket hotline 1-800-827-7522 or www.SistersRodeo.com

Sunday, June 14, 2009, starting at 8, Dirty Half Marathon On Phil's Trail
Runners will start at 8 am, heading up Phil's to road 300 and over to Ben's. They will come down Ben's to MTB to Kent's to the Finish. Expect racers on those trails until about 12. If you can avoid them during those times please do. Unless you're going out to cheer them on  See our photos of COTA's informed trail building.

Thursday, June 18, 2009 ONDA cordially invites you to a blowout bash celebrating the new Oregon Badlands and Spring Basin Wilderness Areas"
7 to 11pm, Old Stone Church, 157 NW Franklin Ave, Bend. After decades of work by volunteers, local businesses, ONDA, the Oregon Congressional Delegation and wilderness supporters throughout Oregon and beyond, President Obama signed the Public Lands Management Act on March 30th, finally protecting The Oregon Badlands and Spring Basin as Wilderness. Come celebrate this historic victory with us! Suggested donation $5, donate online or at the door. Music by Black Strap Bluegrass."

Sunday, June 21, 2009, Father's Day!     

Saturday and Sunday, June 20 and 21, 2009, Father’s Day Weekend at the High Desert Museum: Sawmill, Civil War Soldiers and More!
Sagebrush Soldiers - It is 1865, and Civil War troops are returning west, sent to insure peace in the High Desert. Meet the blue-clad soldiers at their encampment as they fire muskets, drill, and cook their supper over the campfire and gamble. Watch out – they’re recruiting!
Lazinka Sawmill in Action! The whistle blows. The huge, antique blade whirs. Sawdust flies. 10 am – 4 pm.  See our photo essay on the High Desert Museum.

Sunday, June 27, 2009, 6:30 to 7:30 pm, Seminar by Bob Speik at Tumalo State Park
Free talk open to all about how to "Be Prepared" for backcountry adventures. Bring your own chairs and marshmallows!.

Sunday, June 21, 2009, First Day of Summer! 

Friday to Sunday, June 26 to 28, 2009, 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.

MONTH OF JULY 2009

Saturdays in July, 2009, Deschutes Brewery Tours
Saturdays 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.
The Deschutes Brewery is located at 901 SW Simpson Drive at the Simpson-Colorado Roundabout in Bend. See photos soon.

Wednesdays through September, 2009, at Drake Park in downtown Bend, Wednesday Markets
The Bend Farmer's Market is a special summertime, bi-weekly event held each Wednesday in Drake Park and each Friday on the grounds of St. Charles Hospital. Throughout the summer and early fall, you now have the opportunity to buy fresh fruit and vegetables grown in Oregon two times a week! See our photos.

Saturdays through September, 2009, Bend's Saturday Market across the street from the Bend Library between Bond and Wall Streets
The Central Oregon Saturday Market has been a long-time tradition on our "sunny" side of the Cascade Mountains. Bend's market is a unique and vibrant shopping "choice" in the downtown retail district. Vendors throughout the Northwest travel to our market every Saturday. In addition, we have the finest artists and craft masters in Central Oregon. Strolling down our aisles in the high desert air with the warm sun on your face...it's part of what summer in downtown Bend is all about!

July 3, 2009, 5 to 9 pm, First Friday Gallery Walk
"The streets 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. In addition, the First Friday experience also includes musical performances and refreshments at selected galleries."

Saturday, July 4, 2009, Independence Day in America

The Fourth of July Pet Parade in Downtown Bend, Oregon
Dress in costume with a favorite dog or stuffed animal, on your bike, trike, wagon or on foot. Live pets need to be on leashes. Decorating party and line-up begins at 9 am Parade begins at 10 am. Line up is on Wall street in front of the school district administration building. See our photos of this event.
Original Old-Fashioned July 4th Festival in Drake Park
Come on down to Drake Park after the parade for tasty food, artisan booths, live music, hay rides and old-fashioned games. See the photos
Note: In 2006, Air Life landed a helicopter across the river from the Festival.
Read the interesting story that was part of our coverage of this event.
July 4th along the river
July Fourth along the Deschutes River in downtown Bend Oregon. See these photos!
July 4 Fireworks
Pilot Butte at 10 pm 541-385-6570. Pilot Butte closed for the 'Works. (Night photos don't work for me. Send me some?)

Thursdays, in July and August, 2009, Munch & Music at Drake Park presented by The Bulletin and Bend Memorial Clinic
The Drake Park Munch & Music free concert series was founded in 1991 by Cameron Clark Concert Productions to provide families of Central Oregon with the opportunity to gather and strengthen the bonds and associations of the community while enjoying the arts, outstanding food and free music once a week. Please leave the dogs at home. Check out this Bend Oregon institution! See our photos of previous Munch n Music events.

July through Labor Day, 11AM to 4PM daily, Mt. Bachelor Sunrise Chair Lift to the summit
"Summer Sightseeing at Mt. Bachelor starts June 30th! Each day throughout the Summer Season, take in the spectacular views as you glide up the mountain on the Pine Marten Express Lift. At mid-mountain, hike to any of the interesting viewpoints, enjoy hiking, dining, Frisbee golf and interpretive tours by the US Forest Service or just take in the panoramic sights from the outside decks of the Pine Marten Lodge. Sunset Dinners are held each Friday and Saturday night June 30 - August 25. The Labor Day Twilight Dinners return August 31 - September 3. HOURS: Sun-Thurs, 11am-4pm and Fri-Sat, 11am-8pm. For more information, call 541-382-2442 or 800-829-2442. See our photos of Mt Bachelor.  Mt. Bachelor in the summer.

Wednesday, July 8, 2009, Summer Movie Night - “The Sharp End” with Cascades Mountaineers
Enter the danger zone with legendary climbers Tommy Caldwell, Steph Davis, Matt Segal, Lisa Rands, Ammon McNeely, Alex Honnold, Chris McNamara, Dean Potter, Renan Ozturk, Jonny Copp and many others. THE SHARP END is an adrenaline-soaked journey up the world’s most challenging walls: The French Alps, the Eiger, the Utah desert, the Diamond of Colorado, Indian Kashmir, Yosemite granite, and the sandstone spires of the Czech Republic.

Saturday, July 11 to 12, 2009, Bend Summer Festival in Downtown Bend
"Nearing its twentieth anniversary, thousands of people are expected to attend this year's Summer Festival in charming downtown Bend, just a block from Drake Park and the Deschutes River. In an event for all ages and backgrounds, the Summer Festival draws artists and street performers from all over the Northwest and features a wide array of performing arts from dance, film, and children's activities, to performances by topflight regional and national, jazz, blues, rock and international musicians. As always, choose from one of the several performance stages to listen to live musicians and entertainers from the local music scene and beyond; and there will be terrific micro-brews on tap and more than twenty restaurants to enjoy along with the performances." Hosted by Bank of the Cascades and the Bend Downtowners Association, this annual festival blocks off the streets in downtown for arts and crafts, information, food, beer and wine and big stage music events starting Friday night at 8:30 and continuing until 7PM Sunday. See photos of the Summer Festival.  See photos of the Fall Festival.

Wednesday to Sunday, July 15 to 19 and 22 to 26, 2009,  8AM to 5PM, FREE, Oregon High Desert Classics Horseshows at J Bar J Youth Ranch
The Oregon High Desert Classics USEF Classic A International Hunter/Jumper Competition. J Bar J Youth Ranch, 62895 Hamby Rd east of Bend.
More on the High Desert Classic Horseshow website: www.jbarj/ohdc   See our photo essay of last years events.

Thursday, July 16, 2009, - Ladies Night Downtown!
Downtown, downtown . . .

Saturday and Sunday, July 18 and 19, 2009, Deschutes Dash Triathlon, swim, road bike and run to the Les Schwab Amphitheater
Sprint Triathlon .74 mile swim (1300 yards) down the Deschutes river from Farewell Bend Park to the Amphitheater, the 14 mile bike ride returns to the Amphitheater and a  5K run finishing with a free celebration and music at the Les Schwab and Old Mill Shops. See our photos of this event.

Tuesday to Sunday, July 21 to 26, 2009 BMC CASCADE CYCLING CLASSIC
The 30th annual Bend Memorial Clinic Cascade Cycling Classic will be held July 21-26, 2009. It is the longest consecutively run elite stage race in the country and has attracted most of North America's top cyclists and teams over the years. The quality of the race courses, the beauty of Central Oregon and the fun atmosphere of the race has made it a perennial favorite and has the competitors returning year after year. Cascade Cycling Classic Home Page: http://www.mbsef.org/CascadeCyclingClassic/
See our photo essays: Cascade Cycling Classic's Twilight Criterium around downtown Bend and also The Criterium in 2002 , with my first point and pray pocket Nikon.

Monday to Tuesday, July 20 to 21, 2009, Off-Road-Vehicle Damage Documentation Two Day Field Training and overnight car-camp
"Please join us July 20-21 for an exciting, no cost, 2-day field course where you and your friends/family can learn how to document off-highway vehicle (OHV) damage on your local National Forest. The Oregon Chapter Sierra Club, American Hiking Society, and Great Old Broads for Wilderness have teamed together to develop a focused field data collection effort in support of the conservation community's recommendations for the Deschutes and Ochoco National Forests Draft OHV Plan. We will target sensitive landscapes that must be protected from OHV abuse, as identified in our Citizens Management Alternative. For more details on this field training, go to our Field Trips page. To register for this course, contact Asante Riverwind by phone or email. And, printout the AHS SC OHV Training poster for your favorite bulletin boards around town.

Tuesday to Friday, July 21 to July 24, 2009 Outdoor Retailer Summer Market in SLC
"Outdoor Retailer is where orders are written, new accounts are found, connections are made and brands are launched. Outdoor Retailer has proven to be the leading growth vehicle for brands that are interested in progressing and advancing into multiple channels of the outdoor marketplace. From small shops and regional chains, to the largest national and international retailers - Outdoor Retailer attracts thousands of buyers and senior level decision makers that are looking for outdoor specific products, services, brands, fresh ideas, apparel launches, and outdoor innovation." We attended an Outdoor Retailer Summer Market as the guest of Wayne Gregory, owner of Gregory Backpacks  SPOT v 2.0 announced! Read our coverage.

MONTH OF AUGUST 2009

Saturdays in August, 2009, Deschutes Brewery Tours
Saturdays 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.
The Deschutes Brewery is located at 901 SW Simpson Drive at the Simpson-Colorado Roundabout in Bend. See photos soon.

Wednesdays through August, 2009, at Drake Park in downtown Bend, Wednesday Markets
The Bend Farmer's Market is a special summertime, bi-weekly event held each Wednesday in Drake Park and each Friday on the grounds of St. Charles Hospital. Throughout the summer and early fall, you now have the opportunity to buy fresh fruit and vegetables grown in Oregon two times a week! See our photos.

Saturdays through September, 2009, Bend's Saturday Market across the street from the Bend Library between Bond and Wall Streets
The Central Oregon Saturday Market has been a long-time tradition on our "sunny" side of the Cascade Mountains. Bend's market is a unique and vibrant shopping "choice" in the downtown retail district. Vendors throughout the Northwest travel to our market every Saturday. In addition, we have the finest artists and craft masters in Central Oregon. Strolling down our aisles in the high desert air with the warm sun on your face...it's part of what summer in downtown Bend is all about!

August 7, 2009, 5 to 9 pm, First Friday Gallery Walk
"The streets 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. In addition, the First Friday experience also includes musical performances and refreshments at selected galleries."

Thursdays, in August, 2009, Munch & Music at Drake Park presented by The Bulletin and Bend Memorial Clinic
The Drake Park Munch & Music free concert series was founded in 1991 by Cameron Clark Concert Productions to provide families of Central Oregon with the opportunity to gather and strengthen the bonds and associations of the community while enjoying the arts, outstanding food and free music once a week. Please leave the dogs at home. Check out this Bend Oregon institution! See our photos of previous Munch n Music events.

July through Labor Day, 11AM to 4PM daily, Mt. Bachelor Sunrise Chair Lift to the summit
"Summer Sightseeing at Mt. Bachelor starts June 30th! Each day throughout the Summer Season, take in the spectacular views as you glide up the mountain on the Pine Marten Express Lift. At mid-mountain, hike to any of the interesting viewpoints, enjoy hiking, dining, Frisbee golf and interpretive tours by the US Forest Service or just take in the panoramic sights from the outside decks of the Pine Marten Lodge. Sunset Dinners are held each Friday and Saturday night June 30 - August 25. The Labor Day Twilight Dinners return August 31 - September 3. HOURS: Sun-Thurs, 11am-4pm and Fri-Sat, 11am-8pm. For more information, call 541-382-2442 or 800-829-2442. See our photos of Mt Bachelor.  Mt. Bachelor in the summer.

Friday and Saturday, August 1 and 2, 2009, Flashback Cruz at Drake Park on the Deschutes River bank in downtown Bend
ClassicChevyClub of Central Oregon presents the 24th annual Flashback Cruz with show cars sold before 1974, food music and more. The cars are on parade on Sunday, leaving Drake Park at 0930 and touring up to Mt. Bachelor.  See out photos of this event back in the day  See how the Rally looks in 2009

Thursday, August 6, 2009, 6 to 8 pm, Lite Pack'n into the Three Sisters Wilderness, FREE for the Public Library in downtown Bend
This FREE class with Bob Speik will begin with a hands on talk about how to really "Be Prepared" for adventures into the nearby Cascades. We will show and tell all of the contents of a 24 pound backpack for a summer trip to Moraine Lake, Chambers Lakes, Green Lakes and some lesser know sweet spots in our nearby Wilderness. Seven pages of practical handouts for up to 25 people. Seating first come first served at the door! Read and print the flyer for a friend.

Sunday, August 16, 2009, 5:30, Joan Baez with Janice Ian in concert at The Athletic Club of Bend
General seating cost is only $14.00! Tickets at Newport Market. See our photos of Joan Baez a few years ago.

Thursday, August 20, 2009, Easy Evening Hike in Shevlin Park with Bend Hiking Meetup Group
Meet at 6 pm at the main gate of Shevlin Park. We will hike at a social pace for the group and stay together on trails above the creek. See and hear about old growth Ponderosa Pines, living here along the creek for 200 to 300 years. Find out more here: http://www.meetup.com/hiking-309/  See this group and our track in Shevlin Park.

Saturday, August 22, 2009, The Flaming Chicken Adventure Race returns to Bend Oregon!
The Flaming Chicken Adventure Race, one of the only local adventure races in Oregon (and definitely among the most affordable in the NW), is pleased to announce it's return for 2009! Join us as we mountain bike up to 25+ miles throughout some spectacular single track and forest service roads in the middle of the Central Oregon Cascades, trek up to 10+ miles among the lava buttes of Central Oregon and paddle 5-7 miles across some amazing alpine lakes. See our photos of previous Adventure Races near Bend.   See the Raid Adventure Race North America qualifier near Bend.

Sunday, August 23, 2009, 10 am, REI Bend USED GEAR SALE
This is a REI MEMBER only event and does come with certain rules. See our photos of this fun event.

Monday through Sunday, August 17-23, 2009, The Geld-Wen Tradition at Crosswater Club at Sunriver Resort in Sunriver, Oregon
A four-day, 72-hole major championship, preceded by the Jeld-Wen Tradition Pro-Am and NIKE Golf Junior Day. Tournament, Purse: $2.7 million, Saturday & Sunday, August 22-23 on NBC. See our photos of a recent Tradition

Saturday, August 29, 2009, 11:30 - 2:30, Celebrate Summer with Juniper Group Sierra Club's Summer Picnic at Bend's Shevlin Park, Aspen Meadow
Celebrate Summer at beautiful Shevlin Regional Park with a BBQ and Sierra Club friends! Families welcome! Come and meet a great group of people.

MONTH OF SEPTEMBER 2009

Saturdays in September, 2009, Deschutes Brewery Tours
Saturdays 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.
The Deschutes Brewery is located at 901 SW Simpson Drive at the Simpson-Colorado Roundabout in Bend. See photos soon.

Saturdays through September, 2009, Bend's Saturday Market across the street from the Bend Library between Bond and Wall Streets
The Central Oregon Saturday Market has been a long-time tradition on our "sunny" side of the Cascade Mountains. Bend's market is a unique and vibrant shopping "choice" in the downtown retail district. Vendors throughout the Northwest travel to our market every Saturday. In addition, we have the finest artists and craft masters in Central Oregon. Strolling down our aisles in the high desert air with the warm sun on your face...it's part of what summer in downtown Bend is all about!

Tuesday, September 1, 2009 at 7 pm, Senator Merkley will hold Town Hall Meetings next week in Deschutes & Crook Counties
"He will be at the Summit High School Gymnasium; 2855 NW Clearwater Drive in Bend.  Bring your questions on healthcare and express support for clean energy and protecting habitat, forests and special places. Raffle tickets will be given out to people who sign up to ask the Senator a question. Some people are bringing signs that say "I disagree," or "Healthcare Reform, Yes," to respectfully disagree with potential disruptors. It's suggested to arrive 2 hrs early because of an expected capacity crowd." See our photos of Obama's Town Hall in Bend.

Friday, September 4, 2009, 5 to 9 pm, First Friday Gallery Walk
"The streets 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. In addition, the First Friday experience also includes musical performances and refreshments at selected galleries."

Wednesday, September 9, 2009, 7:00 pm at the Central Oregon Environmental Center, Route Planning with Timberline Mountain Guides
Route planning is one of the three important phases of general planning for a trip. Proper route planning allows you to study in depth each section of a hike, climb, or ski tour by breaking each section down into stages. By studying the components of each section of a trip, you feel more prepared to take on the trip, and you will have a good feel for how long each section will take. This method of laying out a trip on paper contains important navigational as well as hazard information. Using the Swiss system for time calculation for each section, you will have a very good idea of the length of time the trip will take. This process is fundamental in anticipating and preparing for the trip, and will help you make effective choices and/or exercise different options.

Saturday, September 12, 2009, 9 am, Hike the Scott Mountain Loop, with the Sierra Club, FREE
About 8 miles, moderate. Take the Cascade Mountain trail to a former lookout site with great views and lakes. Call leader Alison Hamway, 382-2035, in advance for car pool meeting location. Bring lunch and water; sorry no dogs. Bookmark our website to check for updates and current info: http://oregon.sierraclub.org/groups/juniper/

Saturday, September 12, 2009, The Little Woody Brew Festival featuring wood aged beer from each of Central Oregon's seven breweries
12:00 pm to 10:00 pm at the Deschutes Historical Museum on Wall and Idaho: www.thelittlewoody.com

Sunday, September 13, 2009, 9:00 am,  XTERRA Trail Running National Championship Half Marathon Start
Having been called "America's Best Trail Running Town" by the editors of Outside Magazine, Bend is certainly worthy of hosting this talented group of runners. The main event, the half-marathon distance starts in the historic Old Mill District and is accompanied by shorter 5 and 10km fun runs. 9:05 am XTERRA 5km and 10km Trail Run starts in the Old Mill District; 9:05am XTERRA 5km and 10km Trail Run starts; 2:00pm XTERRA Expo closes 6:00pm; XTERRA After Party at Bend Brewing Company. (Max King of Bend and Lauren Fleshman won the XTERRA Trail Run Nationals.)

Saturday, September 19, 2009, Westside Rock Party with the Smith Rock Detour at Smith Rock
Please join us for a day of climbing area rejuvenation followed by dinner, entertainment, a raffle and a viewing of the Reel Rock movie (all complimentary).
Register at the REI booth between 7:30 am and 9 am. Registration and after-work functions will be run in conjunction with the Smith Rock Detour.

Saturday and Sunday, September 19 to 20, 2009, Smith Rock Detour
"The Smith Rock Detour is an outdoor festival featuring climbing clinics with industry pros, media presentations, vendor fair, music, gear demos, food, libations, camping and MUCH MORE! Competitors Package- $50 Includes Comp fees, Reel Rock, BBQ Sat night, pancake breakfast Sunday morning, camping, parking and swag bag. Festival Package $35 - Includes Reel Rock movie, dinner Saturday night, camping, parking, swag. Climbers Package $65 - Includes a clinic of your choice and a festival package." See our coverage of a recent Detour.

Thursday, September 24, 2009, 6pm to 8pm, Polar Explorer Eric Larsen speaks at REI in Bend
Eric Larsen, 38, of Minnesota, has walked, skied, snow-shoed and paddled to both geographic poles, light and fast and under incredible conditions. Now he plans to do both poles again and throw in a light and fast summit of Mt Everest. We confirm that he is a great speaker and he will show and tell and answer good questions. Check his website: www.ericlarsenexplore.com

Saturday and Sunday, September 25 and 26, 2009, 6pm to 10pm adults only, Bend Oktoberfest in downtown Bend
Walk about the blocked off streets in downtown Bend, people watching and sampling food and craft beers. Kids and parents from noon to 6pm on Saturday. See our photos of this annual events:

MONTH OF OCTOBER 2009

September 27th through October 2nd at 8:00 pm and 10:00 pm each evening: "The National Parks: America's Best Idea"
Don't miss this six-episode series directed by documentary filmmaker Ken Burns, which premieres on PBS stations. Filmed at some of nature's most spectacular locales, America's Best Idea is a story of people from every conceivable background – rich and poor; famous and unknown; soldiers and scientists; natives and newcomers; idealists, artists and entrepreneurs; people who were willing to devote themselves to saving some precious portion of the land they loved, and in doing so reminded their fellow citizens of the full meaning of democracy. It is a story full of struggle and conflict, high ideals and crass opportunism, stirring adventure and enduring inspiration - set against the most breathtaking backdrops imaginable.

Thursday, October 1, 2009, Nau Clothing Company will show it's Fall line at Pine Mountain Sports
"We would like to invite you to a very special evening at Pine Mountain Sports. As Club Card members, you are among the first to receive this personal invite to a Private Evening With Nau on October 1st. As you may have already seen in our September newsletter, we are adding the Nau line of apparel to Pine Mtn. Sports this Fall, and are kicking it off with this invite-only evening. We are excited about Nau as a company, their philosophy and their products and are eager to share this exciting new line of apparel with you. Dan & Michelle McGarigle, owners."

Friday, October 2, 2009, Art Hop free 5pm to 9pm, in downtown Bend
"I'm excited to announce that I'll be unveiling three new pieces of work tomorrow night at Pandora's Backpack in downtown Bend. Pandora's is located at 920 Bond street in the north end of the St Clair building. Please stop by and say "Hello". --Mike Putnam. See our page on Mike Putnam Photography: http://traditionalmountaineering.org/Photos_MikePutnam.htm

Saturday, October 3, 2009, The National Weather Service will be conducting SKYWARN Winter Storm Spotter Training at COCC sponsored by KOHD TV
KOHD's StormFEST 2009 is a free public event that features meteorologists from the National Weather Service office in Pendleton and a climatologist from Oregon State University, as the guest speakers. The topic for this year will be "Microclimates of Central Oregon". You can also get your SKYWARN winter storm spotter training out of the way at this year's StormFEST gathering! Registration is required. More information about this event, and a link to sign up and register for the event, is available at the following website: http://kohd.com/weather/StormFEST
See KOHD in Bend: http://traditionalmountaineering.org/KOHD-ABC_News_Interview.htm; See the Weather Watcher program: http://traditionalmountaineering.org/Photos_WeatherWatcher.htm

Saturday and Sunday, October 3 and 4, 2009, 11am to 10pm, Bend Fall Festival in downtown Bend
"Summer may be fading, but the skies are still sunny enough for short sleeves, the air is crisp, fresh, and tinged with the scent of cool nights, and the leaves are just beginning to turn. And the Bank of the Cascades Bend Fall Festival — a homey harvest celebration with good-natured competition, kid-happy fun and arts of all kinds — is the perfect way to ease the spirit into the delights of the new season. " See our photos of this annual event: http://traditionalmountaineering.org/Photos_Festival-2006_sm.htm

Monday, October 5, 2009, FREE Seniors day at the High Desert Museum
The regular cost is $15.00 for each adult, less to nothing for children. Call 541-3824754 for details. See our Photo Essays covering the High Desert Museum

Wednesday, October 7, 2009, Farmer's Wednesday Market in Drake Park, downtown
Get your organic goodies from the famer! See our photos of Bend's Wednesday Market

Friday through Sunday, October 9 to 18, 2009, Fall Sale at REI!
Become a Member of REI. "Members save 20% on one full priced item." Here are my picks for this sale: Traditional Mountaineering ice axes, from 60 to 80cm, $55/$75; Black Diamond light weight strap-on general use crampons, $95/$130; MSR Pocket Rocket stove $30/$40; Gregory Z65 backpacks $180/$240; and more!

Thursday through Sunday, October 8 through 11, 2009, BendFilm Festival
Plan now to join in the long weekend of films, lectures and parties as filmmakers compete for over cash awards in a charismatic setting of mountains, rivers and screaming blue skies that is Bend, Oregon. The BendFilm Festival runs every October in downtown Bend, Oregon at the historic Tower Theatre, the Regal Old Mill, Sisters Movie House, The Boys & Girls Club and McMenamins Old St. Francis School and more For more information on The BendFilm Festival, call 541-388-3378.

Wednesday, October 7, 2009, Powderwhore Ski Film 'Flakes' at McMenamins Old St. Francis School Theater in downtown Bend
"Powderwhore Productions' 5th Telemark Ski Film FLAKES showcases the deep and light powder from around the world that audiences have come to expect, blended together with the often flaky characters who thrive on this wintery existence. Breaking trail into the backcountry with today's most talented telemark skiers, the film crew used slide-cams, remote helicopters and headlamps to bring this new creation home in a new light and perspective. Brought to you locally by Pine Mountain Sports. Sponsors will also raffle off hundreds of dollars worth of outdoor gear.
9pm, 21 years and older only, cost $10.00 plus any raffle tickets. Shot entirely in HD, this hour-long showcase of last winter's adventures travels from Patagonia, the Wasatch Mountains, Haines, Valdez, the San Juans and Aspen. To view the trailer, visit www.powderwhore.com."

Thursday, October 8, 2009, Deschutes Democrats Monthly Meeting
"We are meeting at the Central Oregon Environmental Center - 16 NW Kansas Ave. Bend; 6:30 pm Coffee and social time 7:00 pm Meeting Time"

Friday, 9 October,2009, Great news... "Meet Me In The Badlands: Exploring Central Oregon with Jim Witty" has gone to print and will be available in mid November!
You can now purchase your book in advance by sending your check for $19.95, made payable to “The Jim Witty Memorial Fund” to Mark Quon, 1818 SW Turnberry Place, Bend, OR 97702
See the book cover and table of contents here .

Saturday, October 10, 2009, Dirty Second Half Marathon starting from Seventh Mountain Resort south west of Bend
This race is a Second Act, a Fall edition of the Dirty Half Marathon. We will try to do a better job of covering local races like this! See our coverage of the Raid Adventure Race

Tuesday, October 13, 2009, Trail User Group Meeting, USFS, Bend Ft-Rock Ranger District
We will be meeting at Red Oaks Square at 6:30pm. (This is our 15th year representing Mountaineering as a human powered Member of TUG, a USFS Advisory Committee!)

Tuesday, October 13, 2009, "Lords of Nature: Life in a Land of Great Predators", a free documentary with The Sierra Club at the Environmental Center
Following in the footsteps of wolves and cougars, and the scientists working to understand their place in the rapidly changing world of nature, award-winning filmmakers Karen and Ralf Meyer have captured the predators' ongoing drama in their documentary. Narrated by Peter Coyote, Lords of Nature journeys to the heart of predator country: the Yellowstone plateau; the canyons of Zion; the farm country of northern Minnesota and the rugged open range of central Idaho – all places now resettled by the great beasts society once banished. Here scientists discover these top carnivores as revitalizing forces of nature, keystone species whose presence in sufficient numbers can dramatically reverse the slow decay of America’s wild West. Sierra Club: 6:30 social, 7:00 program begins. $3 suggested donation.

Wednesday, October 14, 2009, 7 pm, Mitch Thompson talks about his Three Sisters Marathon Record at the monthly meeting of Cascades Mountaineers
Mitch Thompson soloed the summits of North, Middle and South Sister, traversing car to car in 6 hours, 39 minutes! A few days later, this Record was broken by a few minutes by local David Potter and equaled by COCC's Brett Yost. Pictures, gear, route discussions and more! You need not be a Member to attend.

Saturday, October 17, 2009, Skyliner's Winter Sports Swap for MBSEF, $3.00 at the Mt. Bachelor Bus Barn
This is a very big local event. Come early for the best deals! Info from MBSEF phone 388-0002. See our photos of last years swap soon. See the Nordic Club's Ski Swap, too.

Wednesday and Thursday, October 21 and 22, 2009, The Steens Mountain Advisory Committee meeting in Bend, OR
The Committee will be reviewing recreational use on the Steens and discussing the future and sustainability of use within the Steens CMPA. The SMAC is charged with the role of representing various interests and providing advice to the BLM in regards to management decisions that impact the Steens Mountain Cooperative Management and Protection Area (CMPA). Meetings are open to the public and a public comment period is scheduled at the end of each day. The meeting will be held at: Phoenix Inn Suites, 300 NW Franklin, Bend OR 97701; Wednesday, 8am-5pm (Public comment period at 4:30pm); Thursday, 8am-3pm (Public comment period at 2:30pm)

Thursday, October 22, 2009, from 5:30 pm to 7:30 pm, Deschutes Land Trust Annual Open House at Aspen Hall in Bend
Join us to celebrate conservation success, honor outstanding volunteers, and catch a preview of upcoming projects. Enjoy light hors d'oeuvres and beverages and watch the premiere of Ripples of Change, the story of the Camp Polk Whychus Creek restoration. For directions and to RSVP, contact Lisa Bagwell. Many thanks to Deschutes Brewery, Pine Mountain Sports, and Suntrack Sound for making this event possible. Reservations Phone 330-0017. Read more about the Deschutes Basin Land Trust.

Friday, October 23, 2009, 7 pm to 9 pm, Alpine Hooliganism, a slideshow presentation by Will Stanhope and Jason Kruk at the new InClimb Gym in Bend
We are open in our new location! 1182 SE Centennial Ct, Bend Or 97701 PH 541-388-6764 Email us at info@inclimb.com. Here is the old gym

Tuesday, October 27, 5:00 to 6:30 pm, Deschutes National Forest 2009 Volunteer Celebration
Meet at the New Bend Metro Parks and Recreation District Administrative Building, 799 SW Columbia, Bend, OR, (Near the Old Mill and Les Schwab Amphitheatre). Please join us for a fun social gathering to recognize the tremendous accomplishments of our Volunteers. You are welcome to come anytime during the celebration, as your schedule allows. Light refreshments will be served and Thank You gifts presented. Jean Nelson-Dean, Partnerships and Volunteer Program Manager 541-383-5576.

Thursday, October 29, 2009, 7 pm, FREE, Steve House speaks at Pinckney Auditorium, Pence Hall at COCC
Steve House, acclaimed by Reinhold Messner as the "Best Alpinist in the World", lives in Terrebonne. Steve will present a slide show of his epic world class climbs, read from his new book and sign copies as well. This is an opportunity not to miss! Steve is generous with answers to good questions in sincere detail. His book "Beyond the Mountain", is a great read, full of rich detail and a virtual text book on the physical and psychological art of climbing very big and difficult mountain faces, including the 15,000 foot snow, rock and ice face of Nanga Parbat. See a picture you won't believe!

Saturday, October 31, 2009, 9 pm, Rocky Horror Picture Show at the Tower Theater
Rocky Horror Picture Show gained notoriety as a midnight movie in 1977 when audiences began participating with the film in theaters across the United States. Come join in the Fun!
Doors open at 9pm with Costume Judging beginning at 9:30pm and Film to start at 10pm. Tickets: $10 general admission. All ages welcome, minors permitted in balcony only.

The Rocky Horror Picture Show is a 1975 British musical comedy film that parodies science fiction and horror films. Still in limited release nearly 34 years after its premiere, it has the longest-running theatrical release in film history. It gained notoriety as a midnight movie in 1977 when audiences began participating with the film in theaters across the United States. The film, considered a cult classic, is an adaptation of the British musical stage production The Rocky Horror Show. Richard O'Brien, author of the stage show, was assisted by Jim Sharman in writing the screenplay. The movie introduces Tim Curry and features Susan Sarandon and Barry Bostwick.

Saturday, October 31, 2009, Halloween

MONTH OF NOVEMBER 2009

Monday, November 2, 2009, The North Face “Never Stop Exploring” Speaker Series at the Tower: Beyond the Edge: Risk, Reward, and Reality in Adventure
Ultra runner Diane Van Deren and extreme skier and BASE jumper Karina Hollekim have reached the heights of their sports, but they’ve also known adventure’s dark side. Norwegian-born Karina’s pro skydiving career was cut short by a leg-crushing aerial accident in 2006, while Diane spent ten years racked by epilepsy. After radical brain surgery, Diane won grueling endurance events like the Yukon Arctic Ultra, a 430 mile foot race across a frozen wilderness. Karina has endured twenty surgeries and has had to relearn to walk, but she aims for a return to the sports she loves. Their incredible journeys and their indomitable spirits will amaze and inspire. 7 pm, $9.50

Tuesday, November 3, 2009, at 5:30 at the DB in downtown Bend, the launch of their 2009 imperial stout: "The Abyss"
More information from Deschutes Brewery at 541-382-9242.

Wednesday, November 4, 2009, Bend Library, 6:00 pm, a virtual tour of the Jungfrau, La Vanoise Parc National, the Chamonix Guides Festival and the Italian Langa Wine Region
Please join us for an hour of visual enjoyment! Happy Trails, Hilloah Rohr contact@hilloah.com

Friday, November 6, 2009, Classic Car Cruise In, 4:30 to 8:30 pm, Boston's Restaurant and Sports Bar on Highway 97 South
Whether you're a spectator or a participant...we invite you to cruise on by. Before or after you enjoy a great meal at Boston's Restaurant and Sports Bar. Visit with participants, compare makes, models, memories and more. Enjoy live entertainment and family-friendly fun.  See our coverage of classic cars.

Friday, November 6, 2009, First Friday Art Walk in downtown Bend
Mike Putnam wrote: "As usual I'm a bit late giving this notification but I wanted to let everyone know that I will be at my regular art haunt for tomorrow's First Friday Art Walk(11/6/2009).  That location is of course, Pandora's Backpack(The Patagonia Store) which is located at 920 NW Bond St Suite 101 in Downtown Bend.  Please stop by and say "Hello" if you are in the vicinity."
See more about Mike Putnam.

Saturday, November 7, 2009, a free celebration of Sister's roots in Timber
Lumber jack athletes will compete, live music, chain saw artists and carvers show their skills at the site of the new hotel in Sisters. See a similar Festival in Bend.

Saturday, November 7, 2009, 12:30 - 2:30 pm, the release of Meet Me In The Badlands: Exploring Central Oregon with Jim Witty Silver Moon Brewing
As we approach the anniversary of Jim's death (I can't believe it's been a year already!) we are so happy to have one of his goals come to fruition. Come down to Jim's favorite watering hole, the Silver Moon, and raise a pint. Please forward this invitation to any casual outdoor enthusiast who you think might be interested. Everyone is welcome to stop by! Please visit www.outings.webs.com   Read more about Jim's book.

Friday, November 13, 2009, Join a Health Care Reform Rally this Friday at 12 noon in front of Senator Greg Walden’s office
Come rally to show support for Health Care reform. You do not have to agree with all the points in the House Bill, or what is being discussed in the Senate bill. But, it's important to voice what is important to you, so you are represented correctly. Where: Meet and the Corner of Bond and Greenwood (In front of Congressman Walden’s office). Walden is the only member of the Oregon delegation to vote against Health Care Reform.

Sunday, November 15, 2009, 1:00 pm Meeting for the March 2010 Bachelor Butte Dog Derby at the Wanoga Sno-Park near Mt Bachelor
If you are interested in helping with the race either on the frontlines or behind the scenes, before, during or after the actual event, you are encouraged to attend. No previous racing or dog driving experience is required! The Bachelor Butte Dog Derby is a return to racing sled dogs in the Cascade mountains near Bend/Sunriver, Oregon. The event is a trophy race scheduled for March 5-7, 2010 at Wanoga sno-park. This is an opportunity to experience the splendor of the the Cascades and contest one's dog team on world class terrain. The courses will be challenging and the classes offered somewhat nostalgic.

The short course is a 4.25 mile loop that features some climbing; tight, downhill turns, a mile long straight-away, and a dramatic otter slide hill into the finish at Wanoga. This will be a 5-dog maximum for sprint teams and a separate 2-dog skijor event.

The middle distance course is 22.5 miles of beautifully groomed trails and promises to be different...this is to be an open class event! Mushers can start with as few as six swifts in tow and hook-up as many as they can safely control. As teams depart Wanoga sno-park they will climb the otter slide that is trail #4 and climb for about 4 miles. At trail #25 the teams will descend for 6 miles through junctions and tree tunnels and circumnavigate Wanoga Butte. The return is a climb up trail #25 and 4 miles of mostly downhill to the finish.

The distance course is 175 miles and guarantees ample challenge to mushers and their teams. With the right weather mushers will enjoy views of Bachelor and the Cascades from every angle. The course follows the Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway from Mt. Bachelor to Crescent sno-park where mushers will spend a mandatory six hours plus differential. Along the way there will be switchbacks, a tour through the high country and Triangle Buttes, and inbound and outbound summits of Kwolh Butte. Additional checkpoints will include Edison sno-park and Elk Lake Resort. The idea of this race is to encourage mushers to make a transition to distance dog driving. And while the course is not short on challenge the rewards are sure to be great.

Wednesday, November 18, 2009, 6:00 to 7:30, 1,000 Friends of Oregon, free program at the Deschutes Brewery's Mountain Room (901 SW Simpson Rd., Bend).
Bend, and Oregon's other urban areas, are considering ways to provide transportation choices, and thereby reduce global warming pollution from cars and trucks. Learn what Bend is doing, and what you can do to support making your neighborhood more walk-able and bicycle-friendly through smarter land use and transportation planning - the same tools that help reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

Wednesday, November 18, 2009, Pine Mountain Sports' Powder Hound Party at the Tower Theater in downtown Bend
Pine Mountain Sports will once again host Powder Hound, our annual "Welcome to Winter" party. Hundreds of locals pack the Tower Theatre to watch ski slideshows and movies made by locals. Thousands of dollars worth of outdoor gear are raffled off, and proceeds benefit Central Oregon Trail Alliance and Deschutes County Search and Rescue.

Friday, November 20, 2009, Mt. Bachelor will open for business
"Greetings! Expect early season conditions on Friday. The groomers will be best. Terrain will be served by Sunshine and Pine Friday, with expanded front side terrain likely on Saturday."

Thursday, November 26, 2009, Thanksgiving Day

MONTH OF DECEMBER 2009

Tuesday, December 2, 2009, 3:30 to 6:00 pm, Scenic Byway Open House Forum at Mirror Pond Gallery in downtown Bend
Find out more about the Forest Service's Scenic Byway Program for Cascades Lakes Highway.

Sunday, December 6, 2009, 10 am to 5 pm, REI's used gear sale in their parking lot in the Old Mill
Don't give up at the prospect of waiting in line all night! Every one gets in in about ten minutes and unless you want a particular pair of skis or a fancy trail bike, it is very worth while and lots of fun. 50% to 90% off original prices!

Saturday, December 5, 2009, 10 am to 2 pm, Metolius Preserve Tree Hunt, Deschutes Land Trust
Come cut your own holiday tree at this annual Land Trust event. Join the Land Trust for this fun, festive annual event! Search for the perfect holiday tree while helping restore the native forests of the Metolius Preserve. The Tree Hunt will be held at the Land Trust's Metolius Preserve North Fork kiosk, weather permitting.

Saturday, December 5, 2009, Jingle Bell Run and Christmas Parade through downtown Bend
Join 1,500 runners and walkers for the 18th annual running of this event for benefiting the Arthritis Foundation by more than $50,000 this year.

Wednesday, December 9, 2009, movie night with Cascades Mountaineers at the Environmental Center We will be showing three short films. Messner - Reinhold Messner film about his views on climbing; Brotherhood of the Rope - Charles Houston on K2 and The Second Step - Warren Macdonald takes back his life after an intense hiking accident that took both his legs above the knee.

Thursday to Sunday, December 10 to 13, 2009,  2009 National Cyclocross Championships in Bend Oregon
Yep, you heard right...Bend is the official host city of the 2009 and 2010 USA Cycling Cyclocross National Championships! See the event website - Cyclocross

Sunday, December 20, 2009, On A Clear Winter's Night Christmas at the River House Conference Center, Presented by Saxon's Fine Jewelers
On a Clear Winter’s Night, Christmas is a holiday tradition in Bend. This year the Riverhouse Conference Center will be transformed into a winter holiday wonderland complete with Christmas Trees, lights and flowers. The musicians perform many of your Christmas favorites - jazzed up of course - as well as their own original music. More Information.

Seasons Greetings from The American Alpine Club!
Monday, December 21, Winter begins!

Friday, December 25, 2009, Christmas Day!

Sunday, December 31, 2010, New Years Day!

    WARNING - *DISCLAIMER!*
Mountain climbing has inherent dangers that can, in part, be mitigated!