With Sisters Boy Scouts yet to complete their "Scouting for Food" good turn, it appears the region's generosity will surpass last year. Scout executive Jared Vanderhoff says, "All towns have reported and our total comes to 11,000 pounds of food donated so far, but we will end up ahead of that because Sisters Scouts are doing a food drive with their sponsoring organization later this month. They expect to do about 1,000 pounds. "I think ... [full story]

On December 7, the 65th anniversary of the attack on Pearl Harbor, Oregon Parks and Recreation (OPRD) and the Des Chutes Historical Center (DHC) will dedicate two new memorials in honor of Colonel Rex T. Barber.  On April 18, 1943, Barber, who served as a W.W. II Army Air Corps fighter pilot, shot down Japanese Admiral Isoroku Yamamoto, architect of the attack on Pearl Harbor. The first dedication begins at 1:00 p.m. at Peter Skene ... [full story]

Starting December 1, the new human papillomavirus vaccine will be added to the list of immunizations covered in Oregon under the federal Vaccines for Children program. The cancer-preventing immunization, more commonly referred to as HPV vaccine, has been on the market since June at a cost of $120 per dose. Three doses are required for full protection. Currently some private insurance plans cover the vaccine but not all do, according to Lorraine Duncan, immunization manager ... [full story]

Central Oregon Community Colleges’s Cascade Chorale will present “Holiday Magic” at 7 p.m. on Dec. 8 and 9; and at 3 p.m. on Dec. 10, at the Tower Theatre in downtown Bend. James W. Knox, assistant professor of music at COCC, will direct. Doors open at 6:15 p.m. This is a fundraising event for Central Oregon Resources for Independent Living. The event is sponsored by SELCO Credit Union and Tennant Development. Tickets cost $15 and are ... [full story]

The holidays are coming, and with the season comes the 13th year of Santa Express, a partnership between the Bend Fire Department, the Bend Firefighters Association, and The Salvation Army to provide food, clothing, and toys to families in need in Central Oregon. A new part of Santa Express this year is a one-day Santa Express Coat & Blanket Drive, conducted in partnership with Sportsman’s Warehouse.  On Friday, December 8, stop by the parking lot ... [full story]

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]

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]

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]

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]

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]