Bend 101 is about learning and connection for new residents, as well as those who’ve been here a while, and want to become more involved in the city we call home. Those attending will spend the evening getting to know the rich history of Bend, how it developed into what we experience today, and how we can all contribute to a thriving community as we grow.
The next Bend 101 session will be at Wille Hall on the COCC campus on Thursday, March 13, at 5:30 p.m. The general public is invited to join us for an exciting evening of community engagement and education.
The special topic of the session will focus on “Water and Waste: Where Does it Come From and Where Does it Go?”
City of Bend Utility Director, Mike Buettner, will discuss the lifecycle of our water—from where it originates, how it gets to our homes and what waste reclamation looks like in Bend.
Kate Fitzpatrick, Executive Director, Deschutes River Conservancy, will touch on the importance of collaborative efforts in the Deschutes River Basin to address water use conflicts.
“It’s been incredible to see the community interest in Bend 101, and how it has served as an onramp for civic engagement for hundreds of attendees in the last few years,” shared Talena Barker, Bend Chamber Vice President of Leadership Development. “For 2025, our format is slightly different, allowing for a more expansive look at each session’s topic of focus. Water is of critical importance to all of Central Oregon, and we have just the right experts on deck to help us better understand the ecosystem.”
Guest speakers include:
- Damon Runberg—State Economist, Business Oregon
- Kelly Cannon-Miller—Executive Director, Deschutes Historical Museum
- Brian Ladd—Principal Broker, Cascade Hasson Sotheby’s, Owner of Ladd Group
- Eric King—City Manager, City of Bend
- Mike Buettner—Utility Director, City of Bend
- Stephanie Betteridge—Chief Innovation Officer/Assistant City Manager, City of Bend
- Kate Fitzpatrick—Executive Director, Deschutes River Conservancy
Space is limited at Wille Hall, so registration is required and is now open at www.bend101.org. The cost is $15 per person to attend. Admission includes a beverage and appetizers.
Bend 101 is supported and funded by a consortium of organizations, including: Bend Chamber, Cascade Hasson Sotheby’s International Real Estate and the Ladd Group, OSU-Cascades, City of Bend, Providence Health Plan, and First American Title.
