Programming

Our programming is centered around connecting you with your surroundings and furthering your relationship with our community. You will learn about the history of Bend and it’s growth over time, hear from city officials and local non-profits, and understand all of the ways you can get involved to give back to our community.

  • 5:30—Check In

    The event officially begins! Grab a drink and some delicious appetizers before we begin with our scheduled programming.

  • 6:00—Programming

    Join us for a rich discussion on the history of Bend, our key values, and where we are going in the future.

  • Networking

    After our programming you will be able to connect with our speakers, community leaders and other attendees!

BEND 101: Water & Waste—Where Does it Come From and Where Does It Go?—March 13, 2025

@ Central Oregon Community College, Wille Hall
2600 NW College Way, Bend OR

Spend the evening getting to know the history of Bend, how it developed into what we experience today, and how we can all contribute to a thriving community as we grow into the future.  There will be time to socialize, indulge in bites and beverages, and enjoy the program.

The evening’s seasonal program will have a focus on “Water and Waste: Where Does it Come From and Where Does it Go?” City of Bend Utility Director, Mike Buettner, will walk us through 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.

Representatives from the City will be on hand to share and answer questions.

Damon Runberg, State Economist,
Business Oregon

Brian Ladd, Principal Broker, Cascade Sotheby’s, Owner of Ladd Group

Mike Buettner, Utility Directory,
City of Bend

Kate Fitzpatrick, Executive Director, Deschutes River Conservancy

Kelly Cannon-Miller, Executive Director, Deschutes Historical Museum

Eric King, City Manager,
City of Bend

Stephanie Betteridge, Chief Innovation Officer/Assistant City Manager, City of Bend

Topics Covered in Previous Programs:

  • Houselessness in Bend

  • Water Use and Allocation & Wildfire and Smoke

  • Land Use and Growth

  • Arts & Culture

  • Higher Education

  • Sustainability & Tourism

  • Healthcare in Central Oregon

  • Bend’s Parks and Libraries

 

Watch Past Events

Some of our previous Bend 101 events were recorded for future viewing. Take a look to get a sense of what it’s like to attend.


 

 

Testimonials

Here is what past Bend 101 attendees had to say about their experience.

“Really enjoyed the historical and economic presentations. Learning how Bend has evolved as a city was very interesting and informative and both presenters were excellent and worked extremely well together.”

— Bend 101 Attendee

“I loved learning the history of Bend. I think it's important to know how a place came to be and the changes it went through in order to appreciate where it is today, as well as how to move forward with respect for those have called Bend home for decades. I am very conscious of the fact that I am new here and shouldn't try to make Bend conform to my desires. I moved here because I liked Bend, I will strive to see that it remains the place I moved here for.”

— Bend 101 Attendee

“I was glad to see that the program addressed both the positive aspects of Bend’s history and culture as well as the challenges... Bend is not unlike many other cities around the country in terms of dealing with issues. Programs such as Bend 101 can be the catalyst for those who are fortunate to be able to afford to live here to get involved and become “part of the solution””

— Bend 101 Attendee