Good morning, this is your Bend Local Frequency for Saturday, June 14, 2025.
As the sun rises over the High Desert, Bend residents are waking up to a packed day of both community action and celebration. Today marks a moment of national attention for our little city, as Bend joins over a thousand communities across the country in events that reflect the ongoing conversation about democracy and leadership in America. The spotlight is especially bright on Drake Park, where at 3:00 this afternoon, a combination community action fair and peaceful protest will bring together voices from across Central Oregon. Organized by a coalition of local groups, including 50501 Central Oregon, Indivisible Bend, the Deschutes Youth Climate Coalition, and Indivisible Sisters, the event promises to be more than just a rally—it’s a chance for residents to connect, learn, and take action together. Speakers will include notable figures such as retired U.S. Army Colonel Pam Mindt and Liz Crandall, a National Forest Service employee who was wrongly dismissed, both ready to share their stories and insights into how recent national decisions are impacting our local community. After the action fair wraps at Drake Park, the group will march to Peace Corner for a peaceful demonstration, standing together to say, “America Has No Kings,” and to call attention to concerns about civil rights, free speech, and essential services.
But today isn’t only about protest—it’s also about coming together to celebrate and engage with our local environment. Earlier this morning, the 5th Annual WaterWise Landscape Field Day kicked off at Hollinshead Park Barn, where green thumbs and conservation enthusiasts gathered to learn about sustainable gardening practices and water-saving landscaping. The event, running from 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., featured hands-on workshops, expert advice, and a chance to connect with neighbors who care about making Bend a more resilient place.
These events offer a snapshot of Bend today—a city where people are passionate about both their rights and their environment, where the national conversation is felt right here in our parks and streets. Whether you’re heading to Hollinshead to learn about water conservation or joining the crowd at Drake Park to raise your voice, there’s a sense that today is an important moment for Bend, both to reflect on where we’ve been and to imagine where we’re going.
This has been Bend Local Frequency. We’ll see you tomorrow with more local updates.
