Research suggests eating spicy foods can increase metabolism and may actually help you eat less. A Canadian study this year showed that men, who had hot sauce with an appetizer, ate on average 200 fewer calories than men who did not.Foods that give your metabolism an extra boost – including chili peppers -- are called thermogenic foods. Thermogenic foods help you burn fat better and give you more energy, so anybody can shed those extra ... [full story]

A recent study found that many Americans are in danger when it comes to taking prescription medicine because they cannot comprehend how much and how often the medication should be taken. Misunderstanding was particularly high among those with an eighth-grade literacy level or below and those who took many prescription drugs. The study, "To Err is Truly Human: Literacy and Misunderstanding of Prescription Drug Labels," was released Nov. 29 at www.annals.org and will be printed ... [full story]

In 2005, Deschutes Brewery officially launched its Reserve Series with Mirror Mirror, a delicious oak-aged barley wine loosely based on a double batch of Mirror Pond Pale Ale. This year our brewers decided to experiment with an Imperial Stout, appropriately named The Abyss after its dark, deep and mysterious flavor experience. The Abyss has immeasurable depth inviting you to explore and discover its rich, complex profile. Hints of molasses, licorice and other alluring flavors draw ... [full story]

Bellatazza, a popular, award-winning coffee shop began brewing coffee in Sunriver last week.  Bellatazza Caffe, a traditional café specializing in espresso preparation and coffee roasting, is currently located in downtown Bend and has struck a licensing agreement with Sunriver Resort.  Located in Sunriver Realty’s new distinctive building on Beaver Drive at the gateway to Sunriver’s commercial shopping village, Bellatazza opened to huge Thanksgiving vacation crowds. “Sunriver Resort is delighted to offer a great new service ... [full story]

Enroll in Six Part Series and Find Your Own Voice – No Experience Necessary Ellen Waterston, award-winning author and poet and founder of the Writing Ranch and The Nature of Words, will conduct a six-part series of workshops on writing creative nonfiction and memoir starting January 9, 2007. Titled “Getting Out of Your Own Way,” the workshops will be held at the Broken Top Clubhouse Board Room, Bend, Oregon from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. each ... [full story]

Winning Over Anger and Violence has elected Alicia Mehlis, to the Board of Directors. She has been a teacher and principal in Southern California schools. She has served as a fundraiser and committee member for many community and professional organizations. As a member-at-large, Ms. Mehlis will help with promotions and fundraising.WINNING Over Anger and Violence has provided counseling services for 19 years in Central Oregon. It is currently seeking community members to help with fundraising, ... [full story]

New tax laws could mean extra savings for you when it comes time to file your taxes. But CPA/Attorney Jim Lange says you need to learn how the new laws affect you now to ensure you take advantage of the full savings. The end of the year is fast approaching. Time for the usual indulgences: eating too much at parties, spending too much on holiday gifts, and planning overly ambitious New Year's resolutions to undo ... [full story]

Cascade Harley-Davidson and Buell announced today their annual Holiday Charity Drive to benefit St. Vincent de Paul.  The public is invited to bring toys, clothes or food donations to Cascade Harley-Davidson until December 15 and receive 10% off select merchandise. The annual Christmas Tree Lot opens December 1 and net proceeds will benefit local charities. For more information, visit www.cascadeharley.com, or call 541.330.6228. About Cascade Harley-Davidson After acquiring the dealership from Bears and Roses Harley-Davidson ... [full story]

Purrfect Gift Raises Money for Humane Society Capturing the essence of your four-legged friend in a photograph is difficult.  The Humane Society of Central Oregon is making it easy to get a professional photograph of your pet which also raises money for animals in need.  On Saturday, December 2, from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the Humane Society of Central Oregon, Bend Petography will capture the spirit of your furry friend in a holiday ... [full story]

Weather conditions on Thursday allowed rescue team members to successfully recover the body of Roger Rouse, the 53-year old father who died in the Mt. Bachelor area after going missing and failing to return from a snowmobile ride he began with his son on Sunday. Deschutes County Sheriff’s Search and Rescue, assisted by Jefferson County/Camp Sherman Hasty Team, the US Forest Service, and City of Bend Water Department recovered Roger Rouse from the Bridge Creek ... [full story]