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www.TraditionalMountaineering.org ™ and also www.AlpineMountaineering.org ™

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FREE BASIC TO ADVANCED ALPINE MOUNTAIN CLIMBING INSTRUCTION™
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MONTH OF JANUARY 2011

Friday, January 7, 2011, 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, 2011, 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

Sunday, January 9, 2011 CORK Hot Chocolate Run 9:00 a.m. Shevlin Park Picnic Area
Come join us for a fifth season of Winter Hot Chocolate runs. We will again meet once a month on the second Sunday of the month from November through February for a fun seven mile (or shorter five mile) run around Shevlin Park. Many runners have met new friends to run with. This a low-key training run for all ability level runners. We run in groups, so no one gets left behind. After the run there is hot chocolate, coffee and bagels to enjoy. No entries to fill out and no fees to pay!!! For more information call: Dan & Kathy Harshburger 541-312-0139

Tuesday, January 11, 2011, TUG Meeting, USFS, Bend Ft-Rock Ranger District, Trail User Group Meeting
We will be meeting at Red Oaks Square at 6:00 pm. (This is our 16th year representing Mountaineering as a member of this USFS Advisory Committee!)

Wednesday, January 12, 2011, 7pm, Cascades Mountaineers monthly members slide show at the ECO
Members slides and videos.

Monday, January 17, 2011, Martin Luther King, Jr. Holliday!

Wednesday to Sunday, January 19 to 23, 2011, Outdoor Retailers Winter Market in Salt Lake City
"Outdoor Retailer brings qualified retail buyers of outdoor and winter-sports centric stores consistently to Salt Lake City each January for Winter Market. Outdoor Retailer brings the buyers, distributors and endemic and non-endemic media to you, and provides ample opportunities to shine in the marketplace with promotional vehicles designed specifically to meet your needs. We are committed to helping you grow your business." See our photos of an Outdoor Retailers Salt Lake City Summer Market

Monday, January 24, 2011, 9 pm, Oregon Public Broadcasting “Pacific Crest Trail: A Ride to Remember”
The documentary on Don and June Mulford’s historic 1959 thru-ride on the PCT. The Mulfords were Washington ranchers who decided to try what everybody said couldn't be done – ride their horses the entire length of the PCT from Mexico to Canada in one year. It would prove to be the adventure of a lifetime. Armed with a movie and slide camera, they documented life on the trail and captured surprises along the way. A Ride to Remember showcases their stunning photography and will delight viewers. For more information on the film, visit www.opb.org/programs/oregonexperience

Tuesday, January 25, 2011, 9 p.m. EST, President Barack Obama delivers his State of the Union Address
Watch live WhiteHouse.gov/SOTU

Tuesday, January 25, 2011, 6:30 to 7:30 pm, Tracking Central Oregon Wildlife in Winter at The Environmental Center, 16 NW Kansas Ave. Bend, OR
Come out of your winter dens for a free presentation with Larry Berrin, Director of Conservation Education with Discover Your Northwest. Learn how to identify mammals by their movements through the three “P” method of tracking. Then learn a few tricks of the trade including: the truth about cats and dogs, the cat track trick, and how to tell a rabbit from a squirrel. Plus who waddles and who walks? Who gallops, who leaps, and who bounds? These and many others questions will be answered as you learn this fun outdoor winter activity. Presented by Deschutes Land Trust, Deschutes National Forest and Discover Your Northwest.

Tuesday, January 25, 2011, 7:00 pm at Pine Mountain Sports, the “Know Before You Go” free avalanche education program by Central Oregon Avalanche Association
The Central Oregon Avalanche Association will present the “Know Before You Go” avalanche education program at Pine Mountain Sports on January 25th at 7:00 pm. The “Know Before You Go” avalanche education program was developed and provided to the Central Oregon Avalanche Association by the Utah Avalanche Center. This is an basic overview program and not a replacement for taking an avalanche class taught by certified avalanche professionals. Please contact Pine Mountain Sports to RSVP for the event at 541-385-8080.

MONTH OF FEBRUARY 2011

Tuesday, February 1, 2011, 6 to 7:30 pm, join thru-hikers Treehugger, Swipe and Tradja as they tell us stories of thru-hiking the Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail at REI
You're invited to a special presentation at REI by PCT thru-hikers Treehugger, Swipe and Tradja as they tell us stories of thru-hiking the Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail. Get a perspective on the unique considerations and challenges of long-distance hiking. Topics will include logistics, ultralight gear choices, desert hiking, safety and answers to commonly asked questions. Call REI to Reserve.

Wednesday, February 2, 2011, from 09:00 am to 02:00 pm, Whychus Canyon Preserve Tracking Walk with Deschutes Land Trust
Hunt for animal tracks in the snow while learning about their patterns and habits. Join Sherry Berrin at Whychus Canyon Preserve to hunt for animal tracks in the snow while learning about the wildlife that left them. This expedition will be a great chance to put the tracking skills learned at the Tracking Central Oregon Wildlife in Winter, Winter Nature Nights series, into practice.
Note: This walk is weather dependent, so registration is required. Please see contact information at right to register. Phone 541-330-0017.

Friday, February 5, 2011, 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.

Tuesday, February 9, 2011, 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 16th year representing Mountaineering as a human powered Member of this USFS Advisory Committee!)

Friday, February 11, 2011, The REI Winter Clearance
Save up to 30%!  Read More: REI opens a new store in Bend

Saturday, February 12, 2011, "The Pacific Crest Trail and the US Forest Service" at 3 pm at the Deschutes Historical Museum, 129 NW Idaho Street in downtown Bend
"The Pacific Crest Trail and the US Forest Service" will be the subject of a talk and slide show. Bend resident and former US Forest Service person Jonathan Stewart, who spent four years hiking and exploring the PCT. He has written a book on the PCT, including the culture and history of the Trail, and advice on how to hike it in Sections. The talk and slide show and questions and answers from this expert are free! Call 541-389-1813 for more information

Monday, February 14, 2011, Traditional Valentines Day!

Friday to Sunday. February 18 to 20, 2011, Bend WinterFest
"In addition to the ice carving exhibitions, fireworks, Mojo Music Eruption in the Festival Center, children’s activities at Snowflake Village, the ever popular snowboard and ski rail jam and ice skating, Bend WinterFest will feature an expanded Winter Wine Walk, winter light show, a larger WinterFest Marketplace, and the exciting cross country ski sprint races. Bend WinterFest attracted more than 25,000 visitors in 2010, and we expect it to grow again in 2011. Bend WinterFest is a celebration of local art, culture and winter sports in our community and a fun, creative event for all to enjoy." For more information: http://www.bendwinterfest.com/    See our photos of a recent Winterfest in Bend, OR

Thursday, February 24, 2011, 7:00 to 8:30 pm, Forest Fire Ecology East of the Cascades at the ECO in downtown Bend
Learn about the important role of fire in our local forest ecology. What do mountain hemlocks at the top of the Cascade crest and juniper woodlands on the sagebrush steppe have in common? Both these forest types evolved with fire. Join Amy Waltz, Fire Ecologist with The Nature Conservancy and Deschutes National Forest for a talk on the unique diversity of eastern Cascades forests and their different adaptations to fire. We’ll look at how forests have changed with human management and how fire has also changed its path through the landscape. The, learn about some of the strategies that are being used to restore fire as a natural, ecologically appropriate, important part of our forests. Deschutes Land Trust, Contact Phone 541] 330-0017. Presented by Deschutes Land Trust, Deschutes National Forest, and The Nature Conservancy.

Friday, and Saturday, February 25-26, 2011, 7 to 10 pm, the annual Mountainfilm Festival at The Tower Theater
"A benefit for The Environmental Center, join us for two nights of the best mountain adventure and culture films straight from Telluride, Colorado,! Plus great raffle prizes both nights! Different films each night!
Contact The Environmental Center, 541-385-6908, Prices: $17.50 in advance; $20 day of show; $30 for both nights in advance".

Friday and Saturday, February 25 and 26, 2011, American Alpine Club, 2011 Annual Meeting and Dinner Weekend in Seattle, WA
Please save the date for the 2011 Annual Benefit and Awards Dinner, to be held in Seattle, Washington on Saturday, February 26, 2011. AAC President Steve Swenson invites you to join a conversation—"On Commitment", with Dr. Tom Hornbein and Steve House. Two of America’s most accomplished climbers from two distinct eras, they will share stories and views on the risks, sacrifices, joys and freedoms that accompany absolute Risk.
See our complete candid photo coverage of the AAC Annual Meeting in Bend.

Saturday, February 26, 2011, the afternoon from 12 noon to about 4 pm, at the Environmental Center near downtown Bend
"Find your way back from 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? If you do not have the right map, you will be unable to use it with your GPS!

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. If you do not adjust CORRECTLY FOR OUR 16 DEGREE EAST DECLINATION, you will be off point from 1,472 to 2944 feet in each 5,280 foot mile you walk with a compass!

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. If your selected GPS Datum does not match your map, waypoints may be off as much as 600 feet!

Handouts include an eleven page printed summary. Then, with a five page workbook, we will work in pairs and threes on drills and real life situations. We provide the right maps; you can use your own 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, five participants must Reserve a place by February 16, 2011 or the class may be cancelled! Call us for other dates!
For more information and to hold a place, email info@traditionalmountaineering.org or call Robert Speik at 541.385.0445. See the Flyer - decide to print it for a friend.
See photos of USFS Volunteer Training.  See photos of a recent class!

Saturday, February 26, 2011, FREE family Saturday at the High Desert Museum!
Mid Oregon Credit Union will sponsor a Free Family Saturday at the Museum off Highway 97, 5 minutes south of Bend. ("Van service, courtesy of the Museum and Wanderlust Tours, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Take our free shuttle to free day and avoid parking woes. Go directly to Morning Star Christian School, 19741 Baker Road, just off Highway 97 at the Baker Road exit".) See our photos of this High Desert Gem.

MONTH OF MARCH 2011

Friday, March 4, 2011, First Friday Walk in downtown Bend
"From 5 to 9 pm, I'll be sharing my Fine Art Landscape Photography at Patagonia of Bend, which is located at 920 NW Wall St in downtown Bend.  If you have the time, please stop by and say hello!  I'll have several of my older classic prints as well as brand new images." --Mike Putnam

Friday to Sunday, March 4 to 6, 2011, The Bachelor Butte Dog Derby based at Wanoga Sno Park
"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 4-6, 2011 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. New for 2011 is a 9-dog 9 mile course, and a 9-mile advanced skijor race! (Please see entry form for pre-qualification information for the 9-mile 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 160 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 includes trails in the Bachelor and Three Sisters system - there will be switchbacks, a tour through the high country and Triangle Buttes, and inbound and outbound summits of Kwolh Butte. Checkpoints are expected to be at Edison sno-park and in the Three Creeks/Sisters area. 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. For more information contact Bino Fowler at: bfowler70@q.com"

Tuesday, March 8, 2011, TUG Meeting, USFS, Bend Ft-Rock Ranger District, Trail User Group Meeting
We will be meeting at Red Oaks Square at 6:00 pm. (This is our 16th year representing Mountaineering as a member of this USFS Advisory Committee!)

  My personal vanity plates from the 1980s! --Bob Speik!
Wednesday, March 9 at 5 p.m., 2011, Heart Rate Monitor Seminar at Fleet Feet Sports
"Learn more about how a heart rate monitor can take your training to the next level! Whether you want to get more active, improve your fitness or maximize your performance, Polar heart rate monitors can help you achieve your goals. On Wednesday, we'll talk about features of the heart rate monitors and how the monitors can be used for any level of training. For more information about the heart rate monitors, please go to www.polarusa.com. Fleet Feet stocks several models, include the FT7 and the FT2. ***If you buy a Polar monitor from Fleet Feet, you will receive a complimentary training session to set up your monitor and create your training zones for optimal use. Contact shannah@fleetfeetbend.com if you have questions!"

Wednesday, March 9, 2011, 7pm, Cascades Mountaineers monthly members meeting and slide show at the ECO
Self belayed reepschnur rappels by Robert Speik and knots too. Members slides and videos.

Every Monday in March, 2011, Join ONDA for happy hour at a new pub above the Old Mill District
Old Mill Brew Werks is putting on a special fundraiser for Friends of the Oregon Badlands and ONDA. Justin and Francis, the friendly guys serving and brewing the beer at the pub, will donate $1 of every pint sold to support ONDA and keeping the Oregon Badlands a true Wilderness. Brew Werks boasts 12 rotating microbrew beers from throughout the Pacific Northwest. Be sure to see the directions on the Old Mill Brew Werks website www.oldmillbrewwerks.com 541-633-767.

Sunday, March 13, 2011 the Third Annual Jim Jam at Silvermoon Brewery
Bring your musical instruments, voices or just your thirst for good beer and good tunes. Jim Jam celebrates Jim Witty and his love for music and life and is held annually around Jim's birthday, March 11th. Hope to see you there!!  Photos of Jim Jam by Gary  Photos by Gary Calicott

Tuesday, March 15, 2011 from 5:30-6:30 pm, Unity Rally for Workers Rights on the steps of the Bend-LaPine School District Administration Office, 520 Northwest Wall Street
"Across America, worker's rights are under attack. Recently, legislation was passed to abolish collective bargaining rights and erode union strength. The 8 hour work day, 5 day work week, and humane child labor laws are just a few of the accomplishments that have revolutionized workers rights in America. These all would not have been possible without the sustained and dedicated efforts from our unions. Please join us in a rally to support collective bargaining, workers rights for all Americans, and the citizens of the Mid-West who are in the midst of losing their right to collectively bargain. ~Assault on a union anywhere, is an assault on workers everywhere~" Please contact Chris Lawler at 541-647-4567 or email to chrislee886@gmail.com with any questions or concerns. See our photos of past rallies in downtown Bend, and great photos of the Obama rally in Bend.

Tuesday, March 15, 2011, 6:00 - 7:30 pm PCT Backpacking Basics FREE at REI
In this show-and-tell session REI will take the mystery out of backpacking.
 

  Thursday, March 17, 2007, St. Patrick's Day

Friday, March 17, 2009, Spring (Break) begins (already!)

Tuesday, March 22, 2011 at 9:30 am, Senator Wyden's Deschutes County Town Hall
Senator Wyden's Deschutes County Town Hall, a couple of hours long, will be held at the Bend Senior Center, 1600 SE Reed Market Rd., Bend.

Tuesday, March 22, 2011, 7:00 pm at Pine Mountain Sports, the “Know Before You Go” free avalanche education program by Central Oregon Avalanche Association
The Central Oregon Avalanche Association will present the “Know Before You Go” avalanche education program at Pine Mountain Sports on January 25th at 7:00 pm. The “Know Before You Go” avalanche education program was developed and provided to the Central Oregon Avalanche Association by the Utah Avalanche Center. This is an basic overview program and not a replacement for taking an avalanche class taught by certified avalanche professionals. Please contact Pine Mountain Sports to RSVP for the event at 541-385-8080.

MONTH OF APRIL 2011

Friday, April 1, 2011, First Friday Gallery Walk in downtown Bend
Join us in a walk about downtown Bend, ogle the art and the other walkers and sip a little free wine!

Saturday, April 2, 2011, Great Nordeen Ski Race near Mount Bachelor
"The Desert Orthopedic Great Nordeen ski 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.  Again this year is a category for a 15km Skijoring, and a 15km ski with your dog class".

Saturdays in 2011, 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, April 12, 2011, 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 16th year as a member of this USFS Advisory Committee!).

Wednesday, April 13, 2011, 6 to 8 pm, 5th Annual Gear Swap at the Environmental Center from 6pm to 8pm "
Clear out those closets & your garage. Here's your chance to get a head start on Spring cleaning. Save hundreds of $$ on gear & equipment that you were planning on buying new.
The $$ you save could pay for a road-trip. Mountain, rock, ice, camping & hiking gear will all be accepted. If you would like to donate any items to the Cascades Mountaineers Club, please call 541-408-3500 for pick-up. Gear check-in runs from 4:30pm to 6pm on Wed., April 13, 2011."

Saturday morning, April 16, 2011, 9 to noon, Smith Rock State Park SOLV Restoration Project, plant native grass sets near the pedestrian bridge area To be rescheduled.
Project Activities: Volunteers will plant native grass sets near the pedestrian bridge area in Smith Rock State Park. Directions: From the flashing light on Highway 97 in Tummalo, turn east on Smith Rock Road, bump over the tracks, go to the bottom of the hill and turn left to Smith Rock State Park, following the State Park signs. Meeting Location: Meet at the parking payment machine. Free parking permits will be issued to volunteers. Dress for the forecast weather and for planting 50 one gallon native grass sets in the soil near the river. Bring water and snacks and an extra jacket, although we will not be far from the cars.
Coordinator and "Official Oregon State Adopter of the Wild and Scenic Crooked River through Smith Rock State Park": Robert Speik, speik@bendcable.com, 541-385-0445.

Saturday, April 23, 2011, 11 am to 4 pm, Earth Day Fair and Parade in downtown Bend
"Join The Environmental Center for a fun and festive celebration of the natural world! There will be live music, art, interactive displays and great hands-on activities for all ages. A colorful, creative parade filled with children and adults costumed as their favorite species will kick off our day of festivities. See our photo essay of prior Earth Day events.
10:30 am Assemble on Louisiana Avenue next to McMenamin's, 11:00 am Parade starts (total distance about 8 blocks through downtown Bend and ends at the Earth Day Fair)

  Saturday, April 23, 2011, 9 am to about 3 pm, a Fee Class near downtown Bend
BASIC WINTER MOUNTAINEERING
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 Seminar notes and Ice Axe Arrest and roped travel. See the photos of the gear.
We are limiting this class to about 10 participants. No drop-ins please! Cost is $20.00. Prepaid Reservations only, by April 20, 2011!
Information from Instructor Robert Speik at 541-385-0445, info@traditionalmountaineering.org

        
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

Significant RISK of heavy avalanche activity on backcountry slopes has been identified by Mazama Climbing and Ski Mountaineering Leaders!
"We are seeing metamorphoses of the older faceted snow that looses strength due to continued weakening by rounding above the MLK day ice crust.
This part of the snowpack has almost acted as a "shallow" snowpack and creating an instability within this part of the snowpack.
On top of that, this weakening layer got buried by a lot of heavy wet snow in the last weeks." Wim Aarts, Mazama ASI Chair 2011-2012.

Wednesday, May 11, 2011 FREE at 7 pm, Kevin Grove's Alpine Climbing Adventures at The Environmental Center for Cascades Mountaineers
"Come and hear local man Kevin Grove present on his summer 2009 and 2010 alpine climbing adventures. Highlights include climbing in the Bugaboos, Canadian Rockies and the Tetons. He'll also show a video or two from ski mountaineering in the Cascades to bring things back to home."

Friday, May 13, 2011, 5:30 to 9:30 pm, FREE Open House at ONDA's new office
"Join us at our to find out what's happening at our new location, 50 SW Bond St, Suite 4 (in the big red building across the parking lot from Strictly Organic Coffee). We'll have music, merriment, beer & wine, snacks, games, door prizes, and more. Sip some spirits, move to the sounds of Truck Stop Gravy, and enjoy some desert-loving company and conversation."

Tuesday, May 17, 2011, FREE Senior Day at the High Desert Museum
Sponsored by Clear One Medicare Supplement Insurance, this is an opportunity to enjoy this High Desert jewel on a quiet Tuesday. See our several photo essays of the indoor/outdoor Museum.

Wednesday, May 18, 2011, 6 to 8 pm, USFS Vegetation Management Project Open House at Red Oaks Square
Learn about the Project and ask questions about the management of your forest lands west of Bend!

Saturdays through September, 2011, Bend's Saturday Markets
"Across the street from the Bend Library between Bond and Wall Street, 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!"

Thursdays, in July and August, 2011, 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 or bring poop bags, water and towels to clean the grass!
Check out this Bend Oregon institution! See our photos of previous Munch n Music events.

Sundays in the summer, 2011, FREE summer Sunday Concerts on the grass at the Les Schwab Amphitheater
St. Charles FREE Summer Sunday Concerts start June 12 and continue through August 14. Come on down to the Les Schwab Amphitheater with your family, your family pet, your picnic (maybe your sunscreen), and enjoy a beautiful afternoon of great music and healthy family fun. Details here.  See our photos of a free Sunday Concert

July through Labor Day, 11 am to 4 pm daily, Mt. Bachelor Summer Sightseeing
"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 through August. The Labor Day Twilight Dinners return! For more information, call 541-382-2442 or 800-829-2442.
See our photos of Mt Bachelor.  Mt. Bachelor in the summer.

Friday, July 1, 2011, 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.

Monday, July 4, 2011, Independence Day!

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: Air Life landed a helicopter across the river from the Festival. Read the interesting story that was part of our coverage of this event.

Monday, July 4th along the river
July Fourth along the Deschutes River in downtown Bend Oregon. See these photos!

Monday, July 4 Fireworks
Pilot Butte at 10 pm 541-385-6570. Pilot Butte is closed for the 'Works'. (Night photos don't work for my Canon. Send me some?)

Friday to Sunday, July 8 to 10, 2011, 11 am to 11 pm, Bend Summer Festival in Downtown Bend
"On its twenty first 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.

Saturdays through September, 2011, Bend's Saturday Markets
"Across the street from the Bend Library between Bond and Wall Street, 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!"

Saturday, September 3, 2011,during the 5th annual PCT DAYS , in Cascade Locks, Oregon: Using your Map, Compass and GPS together, FREE with Robert Speik
"You just can’t stay found with GPS alone! You need the right map and compass too. But how do you use them together, for a day hike, a backpack, or a through hike on the PCT?
-We will learn about USGS Quad maps and affordable TOPO map computer programs that help you print your own small maps.
-Free Forest Service topo maps at Trail Heads have UTM Grid lines and give you important locations in UTM NAD27 coordinates. Customized PCT maps are printed with UTM lines. How do you use these maps and grids? If you do not have the right map, you will be unable to use it with your compass or GPS.
-We will learn about how to use a simple declination adjusted 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. If you do not adjust for declination in Oregon, you will be off target 1,472 feet in each mile.
-A simple Garmin eTrex Venture HC GPS is just as accurate as a GPS costing much more. There are just five basic GPS 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 with a GPS will learn how to set up their own receiver and use these five pages. If your selected GPS Datum does not match the map, waypoints may be off by 600’.
-We can answer individual questions after one hour presentation, during the weekend. Bring your own maps, compass and GPS. We can help you set them up for the PCT.
If you wish to Read More before this class, go to Questions at www.TraditionalMountaineering.org"

Wednesday, September 7, 2011, 7:00 pm, William L. Sullivan, Favorite Oregon Hikes & Adventures for Cascades Mountaineers at the ECO"
Oregon hiking guru Bill Sullivan takes us on a tour of his favorite trips -- hikes and adventures in all parts of the state, choosing top trips for each month of the year. Based on his new book, "Oregon Favorites," the show includes tips on new trails, as well as anecdotes about history, geology, wildlife, and people along the way."

Friday and Saturday, September 23rd and 24th, 2011, Bend Oktoberfest in downtown
For the 7th year, the Downtown Bend Business Association will hold the Bend Oktoberfest to raise funds for Downtown Bend beautification projects. The community event is FREE to attend & will be held in Downtown Bend. Friday 5 to 10pm, Saturday noon to 10pm! See our photos of other downtown Bend events.

Thursday, September 29, 2011, 6:00 to 8:00 pm, ORVIS Bend - Annual Customer Appreciation Night and Scotch Tasting
"Please come join us for a sampling of premium scotch whiskeys, hors d'oeuvres, live music, and special promotions this one night only!! The Orvis Store, 320 SW Powerhouse Drive, Bend, Oregon 97702. Every customer through the door after 6:00pm will receive a $25 Orvis coupon for use on any purchase of $50+ of full priced merchandise."

MONTH OF OCTOBER 2011

Saturday and Sunday, October 1 and 2, 2011, Bend Fall Festival in downtown Bend
"As summer fades, fall gracefully eases its way onto the scene and provides a gentle landing into winter. A time to harvest and give thanks, to rest from summer’s endless pursuit of sunshine and to prepare for the flurry of winter; fall is the perfect time to give thanks and enjoy a community gathering. The Bank of the Cascades Bend Fall Festival, presented by The Source Weekly will bring a celebration of all things fall to downtown Bend Oct. 1 and Oct. 2. Fall-themed activities-yodeling anyone?-music, art, and food will thrill attendees of all ages."

  My personal vanity plates from the 1970s! --Bob Speik!
Sunday, October 2, 2011, Dirty Second Half Marathon
Don't miss out on Central Oregon's last trail race of the season. The Dirty 2nd Half is on Sunday, October 3at 9am. This is the D2H's second year, and the race starts and finishes at the Seventh Mountain Resort on Century Drive. The run consists of a good mix of dirt road and single track with challenging climbs and ripping descents. The bulk of the climbing takes place on dirt roads so passing is not hampered. Three aid stations at roughly miles 3, 7, and 11 will be stocked with water and HEED. Come down to the shop to sign up, or you can sign up online with a credit card until Thursday, September 30. Go to www.footzonebend.com to catch the link for online registration. Hope to see you all Sunday!

Friday, October 7, 2011, 5 to 9 pm, Downtown Bend Art Hop
Come by the FootZone this Friday night to check out some cool jewelry made by none other than former FootZone employee Holly Rodes. She uses mixed metals, gems and her signature "knot" to make some really cool stuff (the FootZone gals all love it). We'll have a little wine and some good snacks as well.

Saturday, October 8, 2011, "Biketoberfest", meet: 8:15 am, at the Old Mt. Bachelor Park & Ride, Colorado and Simpson, Work until 2 pm at Wanoga Complex
After trail-work party until 6 PM at Parilla Grill. Roll up your sleeves and help COTA maintain the amazing Central Oregon trails! You don't want to miss the after work party with free food, beer and raffle prizes for all those who volunteered! Breakfast sponsored by REI from 8:15 - 9am at Park & Ride. Gather at 9:00 am, disperse into various work groups. Trail Work until 2pm throughout the Wanoga Complex
After Party sponsored by Deschutes Brewery and Parilla Grill 2:00 to 6:00 pm

Sunday, October 9, 2011, Portland Marathon
FootZone is buzzing over the Portland Marathon this year. Colleen and Shawn will both be participating and Tonya and her husband Geoff will be there in full support of all the USAFit Bend athletes. Let FootZone help you out with all your questions no matter which fall marathon you're taking on. Good luck to all the Central Oregonian marathoners! www.footzonebend.com

Thursday to Sunday, October 6 to 9, 2011, 7th Annual BendFilm Festival
"Now in its 8th year, the BendFilm Festival has evolved into a must-attend event. It brings together independent filmmakers and savvy media consumers for a life-enriching experience that educates and entertains. The work of BendFilm has drawn acclaim from both the film industry for its bold support of alternative cinema, and the Central Oregon community for its jammed-pack, four-day event of film viewing, lectures and other special events." http://www.bendfilm.org/

Wednesday, October 12, 2011, 7 pm, Cascades Mountaineers Meeting at the Environmental Center in Bend
Members slides and discussions.

Saturdays in October, 2011, Skyline Forest Hikes sponsored by Deschutes Land Trust
Registration Required. call 541-330-0017 to register. Learn more at www.DeschutesLandTrust.org

Saturday, October 15, 2011, Skyliners Winter Sports Swap at the Mt. Bachelor Bus Barn
This big Bend event, a swap benefiting MBSEF has been held at 115 SW Columbia Street for many years. Admission is still $3.00. Come early, the line is long!
We will try to upload our photos of last years event soon.

Thursday, October 20, 2011, "All.I.Can" World Tour, An Environmental Awareness Snow Sports Film by Sherpas Cinema, at the Tower Theater in downtown Bend
"Visionary Backcountry Skiing on the frontlines of Global Environmentalism by Sherpas Cinema. A Fundraiser for Central Oregon Avalanche Association. Tickets: General Admission $12 Advance and $15 Day of Show". Read More: http://coavalanche.org/node/779

Friday and Saturday, October 21 and 22, 2011, IMBA's Pacific Northwest Mountain Bike Summit in downtown Bend
Join IMBA staff, club leaders, advocates and land managers from across the region for the Pacific Northwest Mountain Bike Summit. Topics will cover a range of subjects aimed at building organizational capacity, developing great projects, and building partnerships. Read More: https://www.imba.com/civicrm/event/info?reset=1&id=162
See our photos of IMBA in Bend: http://traditionalmountaineering.org/Photos_IMBA_COTA.htm

Saturday, October 30, 2011, The Rocky Horror Picture Show at the Tower Theatre
Information at www.TowerTheatre.org

Monday, October 31, 2011, Halloween!

MONTH OF NOVEMBER  2011

Saturdays in November, 2011, Deschutes Brewery Tours
Saturdays from noon to 4 pm 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.

Thursday, November 3, 2011, Open House with the Deschutes Land Trust
Join us at Cafe Sintra on November 3rd from 5:30-7:30pm for a new twist on this yearly gathering! Enjoy drinks, appetizers, mingling with Land Trust friends, and a mini art walk featuring the beautiful photography of Land Trust protected lands. Remarks and awards to honor our outstanding volunteers at 6pm. The photography art walk will feature the work of our many talented volunteer photographers. Many thanks to Sue Anderson, Byron Dudley, Jay Mather, Gary Miller, MA Wilson, and Bob Woodward for making this show (and all our photography!) possible. Most of the photography will be available for purchase via silent auction. One lucky attendee will win a photo via a raffle! If you plan on joining us, please click here to register for the event.

Thursday, November 3, 2011, 5:30 to 7:00 pm, the annual DNF VOLUNTEER CELEBRATION
This get-together is by invitation to folks who have volunteered during the past year. Forest Service Bend Pine Office, 63095 Deschutes Market Road, (just north off of Butler Market Road), Bend, Oregon. We have volunteered each year for 18 years on the Trail User Group Advisory Committee (TUG), as a Crew Leader for Wilderness Trails Construction and Maintenance, as a Backcountry Volunteer Wilderness Ranger, as a PCT Trail Maintenance Volunteer and more. Note that the new USFS office is now open.

Thursday, November 3, 2011, all Ham Radio Operators in Central Oregon, Ham Radio and Weather Seminar at St. Charles
"Guest speakers from the National Weather Service (NWS) Weather Forecast Office in Pendleton will be giving a Ham Radio and Weather Seminar at the next monthly meeting of the High Desert Amateur Radio Group (HIDARG), which will be held on Thursday, November 3rd, at 7:00 PM at the St. Charles Medical Center, 2500 Northeast Neff Road, in Bend, Oregon. The seminar speakers will be Alan Polan, KE4TRR and Vincent Papol, KF7GGC. The speakers are meteorologists and weather forecasters who work at the NWS Weather Forecast Office in Pendleton, Oregon." Read More,  KC6NTX and KC6NTY

Saturday, November 5, 2011 noon-4pm, the 2nd annual Bend Snow Expo at The Center!
"Please join us again for a fun filled Outdoor Winter Expo for all ages and snow interests that helps benefit local non-profits. Last year we had such a great time and incredible community support that we are very excited about this year. Bend Snow Expo at The Center Featuring local vendors, educational lectures, on snow demos, prizes, food, music and fun, this FREE outdoor community expo is an opportunity for the whole family to get ready for the upcoming snow season. Don't miss this year's movie - "The Story". More information.

“How to Be Prepared for hiking and snowshoeing in the Winter and Spring” will be presented by Robert Speik for “www.TraditionalMountaineering.org” from 1:30 to 2:00 pm, including Handouts, Show and Tell, How-To Demonstrations and Q and A

Benefiting Oregon Adaptive Sports, Robert Speik has contributed, as a raffle item, "Finding your way back with inexpensive Map, Compass and optional GPS, Together" a Class of at least two hours for up to five participants (a $200. value) at The Center in Bend. More information.

Wednesday, November 9, 2011, 7 pm, Cascades Mountaineers Meeting at the Environmental Center in Bend
Members discuss the Ten Essential Systems and Accidents in North American Mountaineering. Member Robert Speik demonstrates what he wears for very cold winter weather and what he carries for easy and difficult Winter adventures: http://traditionalmountaineering.org/FAQ_Best_Clothing.htm and http://traditionalmountaineering.org/FAQ_DayPack_winter.htm

Thursday, November 24, 2010, Thanksgiving

MONTH OF DECEMBER  2011

Saturdays in December, 2011, Deschutes Brewery Tours
Saturdays from noon to 4 pm 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.

Friday, December 2nd, 5:30-9:30pm at ONDA Headquarters, 50 SW Bond St. #4, Bend, Year-end Celebration!
You are invited to join ONDA members, supporters, and staff as we celebrate the accomplishments of a year of desert conservation!

Sunday, December 4, 2011, 10 am to 3 pm, Bend REI - Member's Only Used Gear Sale
"This is a REI Co-Op Member Only event (you can join the Co-Op day of the event) and comes with certain rules: 1. You must be an REI MEMBER in order to purchase the USED GEAR. NO EXCEPTIONS 2. All merchandise is sold as is-No returns or exchanges! 3. If there's no beige price tag on product, it can't be sold 4. No price adjustments 5. Please be considerate to other shoppers and staff 6. Due to the high traffic volumes, no repair orders will be accepted during the weekend of the USED GEAR SALE 7. USED GEAR SALE merchandise cannot be put on hold." See our photos of this great event

Wednesday, December 14, 2011, Cascades Mountaineers Annual Meeting
"For the December meeting, we will be hosting our annual Christmas party which begins at 7 pm, followed by a screening of the ski-mountaineering movie 'Butte Baggin' 3' at 8 pm."
A group of Oregon skiers presents a movie about backcountry skiing and ski mountaineering in Central Oregon and beyond: Butte Baggin' 3: A New Record. Record snowfall, record ski days, record exploration. Please join us in reliving all the action from our epic 2010/2011 season! Featuring: Erik Schmidt, Lindsey Clark, Dave Bailey, Loren Griswold, Kaya the ski dog, Liam Myers, Rick Peters, Frank Palermo, Ashley Teren, Jenn Simon, Jodi Line-Bailey, Levi Matkins, Greg Stafford, and others. Filmed on location at: Broken Top, Mt. Hood, Middle Sister, North Sister, Tam McArthur Rim, Santiam Pass, Three Fingered Jack, Mt. Thielsen, Mt. Shasta, Brighton Utah, Sawtooths Idaho and more! Here is the flyer.

Friday, December 16, 2011, Holiday Fling with Fred Beckey at the Mazama Mountaineering Center in Portland
Legendary Seattle climber Fred Beckey, along with a booth and representatives from Patagonia Outdoor Clothing, will be joining us at the Mazama Mountaineering Center to celebrate the holidays. 7:00 PM – Tickets are $10 at the door. Beckey is unofficially recognized as the all-time world record holder of first ascents credited to one man, but is most notably known for his three volume classic, Cascade Alpine Guide. Fred has had 11 books published to date, and will be proudly signing his new book titled, Fred Beckey’s 100 Favorite North American Climbs, published by Patagonia Press. This book has been a lifetime in the making, and is a coffee table style book beautifully showcasing Fred’s favorite climbs, route tips, natural history, and climbing lore. Also, Fred will be giving an abbreviated slide show presentation highlighting his climbs from Alaska, and then working South through the Cascades. See our Fred Becky page!

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

Sunday, December 25, 2011, Christmas Day!

Saturday, December 31, 2011, New Years Eve!

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