Zak Boone shares information about COCC's scholarship program, being awarded since 1955. He also shares about the Madras COCC expansion.
Launching of the Regional Business Alliance in Central Oregon
This episode is a conversation with Sarah Odendahl, CEO of the Bend Chamber of Commerce, and Jennifer Stephens, Program Manager, about the launching of the Regional Business Alliance in Central Oregon. They discussed efforts to support and enhance local businesses as well as the local economy by working together and supporting primary issues facing the area including workforce development, housing, and employment.
Selin Sevinc on her film Homesounds
Local filmmaker Selin Sevinc tells us about Homesounds, a dark comedy about her personal experiences with depression.
PetsForward and the Story of Pumpkin
Jill Peterson tells us about PetsForward, a non-profit helping people who are having difficulty affording veterinary care. She shares a personal story from a recipient of their help, Amanda, who is the Pet Parent of Pumpkin, a cat that was shot by a pastor and lost both of his eyes.
A Conversation with NeighborImpact Food Bank Director Carly Auten
NeighborImpact's Food Bank Director, Carly Auten, discusses the extensive impact caused by federal food program cuts and the interruption of direct-to-families SNAP benefits during the Oct-Nov government shutdown. The discussion also includes ways that the public can support their work with nonperishable food donations.
Shepherd's House Services and Budget Cuts with Curt Floski and John Lodise
Curt Floski, CEO, and John Lodise, Director, from Shepherd’s House Ministries, talk about homelessness, current support services, and the importance of understanding and "grace" which "changes everything.” They discuss serving a population in need in Central Oregon and the value of community support.
Substitutes Needed in Central Oregon with AnnMarie Anderson from the High Desert Education Service District
The High Desert Education Service District provides many different services for Central Oregon’s school districts, including hiring and training 1600 substitutes. AnnMarie Anderson is the recruitment, retention, and substitute specialist for for the High Desert Education Service District. She talks about the hiring process, as well as the personal rewards for substitutes.
Bend City Update with Ariel Mendez
This bi-monthly Bend City Update with City Councilor Ariel Mendez in December 2025 focuses on houselessness and services in winter; affordable housing and available federal and state funds; housing permits; and community projects. To contact City Council, email: council@bendoregon.gov.
Life Ain't Always Wonderful: How to Survive the Holiday Blues
Isn't it interesting how It's A Wonderful Life is still such a popular Christmas movie, despite being released before many of us were born? Maybe this is because the film's themes are timeless, and George Bailey's struggles are relatable. The holidays aren't merry and bright for everyone, and therapist Scott Cypress gives us some insight and tips on how to cope.
Redmond School District implements the Science of Reading
Stephanie Wilcox and Jen Lee talk about how The Science of Reading has been implemented in the Redmond School District, and the resulting impact on the students, their families and the RSD staff.
Conversation with Mary Murphy, Deputy Director of the Latino Community Association
Mary Murphy, Deputy Director of the Latino Community Association, talks about ICE in Central Oregon and how LCA meets the needs of the Latino community. Ms. Murphy explains the intention of the organization now celebrating 25 years of service, describes the array of services and events throughout Central Oregon community, and shares the success of many local partnerships.
The Civics Learning Project of Oregon with Amy Sabbadini
The Central Oregon Civics Learning Project offers programs to students and teachers and teaches the value of civics to sustain democracy in our country and state. By learning ways to participate in the democratic process, students learn the value of civics in governing and policy making. More information at civicslearning.org.
No Hazmat Suit Needed: How to Survive Toxic Positivity
The phrase "toxic positivity" gets thrown around a lot these days, but is it even a real thing? Therapist Scott Cypress gives us the lowdown on this well-intended but often misguided behavior.
Central Oregon Disabilities Support Network with Dianna Hansen
Dianna Hansen, Founder and Executive Director of the Central Oregon Disabilities Support Network, talks about the origin of the organization, services provided, avenues to access services, funding, and the wide range of community and national supporters.
Cascade Culinary Institute with Brian Kerr
This episode is a conversation with Program Director Brian Kerr about Cascade Culinary Institute’s holiday pie and side offerings available to the community, the available Associate of Applied Science Degree, the wide range of classes offered, and the value of serving on their Advisory Committee. cascadeculinary.com
Getting Creative With Bend's Open Arts Center
Founders of the Open Arts Center, Claire Brislin and Maija Kellner-Rhode, tell us how this organization provides a safe space for teens and adults to explore their creative sides.
Council on Aging - Serving Seniors in Central Oregon
This conversation with Executive Director Cassie Regimbal and Caring Connections Program Manager Jamie Lacore from the Council on Aging has a focus of caring for seniors in Central Oregon. Their goal is to keep seniors in our community safe, fed and connected. Those needing help with food, counseling, pet care, connection, and other challenges can be served by the Council on Aging. The contact number is (541) 678-5483. The web site is councilonaging.org.
Fill All Pantries with Kristin Points from High Desert Food & Farm Alliance
Fill Your Pantry is a community bulk-buying farmers market held annually in the fall at the Deschutes County Fairgrounds. The event typically accepts SNAP benefits for payment, but with the current funding freeze, Central Oregonians haven’t received their benefits for November. Kristin Points - Executive Director of the High Desert Food & Farm Alliance - talks about the current Fill All Pantries fundraiser that was started as a response to the SNAP benefits freeze.
Stephen A. Forrester on "Richard Neuberger: Oregon Politics and the Making of a US Senator"
Stephen Forrester discusses his book about Richard Neuberger, a consequential but often-forgotten figure in Oregon political history.
Conversation with Executive Director of the Deschutes Children Foundation, Cassie MacQueen
This conversation with Executive Director Cassie MacQueen, from the Deschutes Childrens Foundation focuses on the impact of federal reductions in needed funds to care for those in need in Central Oregon. The Deschutes Children Foundation partners with many other non-profits to serve community members including FAN (Family Access Network), local Food Banks including NeighborImpact, and THRIVE.