Ryan Houston, Executive Director for the Oregon Natural Desert Association, explains what is at stake after the BLM's approval for exploratory lithium drilling in the McDermitt Caldera (SE Oregon). Plus, he highlights the value of beavers as a keystone species and the sage grouse as a barometer for health and welfare of wildlife in the Oregon desert.
Black History Month with Marcus LeGrand, COCC Afrocentric Program Coordinator
This discussion is about the value of "having knowledge" about the contributions of Black Americans during Black History Month and all year long. Guest Marcus LeGrand talked about the variety of activities available during the month of February through Central Oregon Community College and why celebration is important. More info can be found at cocc.edu/snv.
Camp Fire Central Oregon with Kecia Kubota
Kecia Kubota, Executive Director of Camp Fire Central Oregon, shares about their programs for children, youth and teens. MLK Day of Service activities are also shared.
COCC Season for Nonviolence with Charlotte Gilbride from the COCC Foundation
COCC continues to host the Season for Nonviolence, now in its 18th year. Charlotte McBride, Coordinator for the Nancy R. Chandler Lecture Series, shares information about the many events happening in the community, including lectures/presentations, dance, films, and community reads focusing on the book "Be a Revolution: How Everyday People Are Fighting Oppression and Changing the World—And How You Can, Too" by Ijeoma Oluo.
Coping with a Grieving Loved One
Experiencing a tragic loss can sometimes bring out the worst in us. While we see a lot of material on how to cope with our own grief, there's not much out there about how to cope when someone we love goes through it. Claire Merydith and her husband Chris sit down with counselor Sarah Peterson to talk about "grief induced psychosis." Chris tells us about his experience with Claire's depression after losing her mother in 2024, and Sarah gives us some tips and insights on grappling with grief.
COCC's Scholarship Program and Madras Expansion with Zak Boone
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.
The Central Oregon Health Council's role in providing improved healthcare outcomes - and opportunities for public input
Dr. Arianne Powell, Bend native and Executive Director for the Central Oregon Health Council, discusses the big picture as one of Oregon's 16 Coordinated Care Organizations and the task of collaborating with competing medical provider groups to advance healthcare objectives for the common good.
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.
Supporting Families Through Local Schools with Julie Lyche from the Family Access Network
The Family Access Network's Executive Director, Julie Lyche, explains how children can flourish in school and in life through FAN's quick response connection to over 100 community resources for critical basic needs through school-based advocates. www.familyaccessnetwork.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.