What We Do, And Why We're Helpful
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Community
We delve into each community’s vibe and energy. How do locals interact? Is there a strong sense of neighborhood camaraderie? We bring out the stories of local festivals, traditions, and the everyday interactions that make each place special.
Local History
Every town has its stories—those legends, historic events, and local heroes that give a place its character. We share these tales to give you a sense of the past and present that shapes each community.
Testimonials
We gather insights from residents themselves—what they love about living there, the little gems they’ve discovered, and what they wish was different. These first-hand accounts provide a nuanced view that goes beyond basic data.
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Lifestyle
From the pace of life to the types of entertainment and recreational activities available, we assess how well a community might match your lifestyle needs. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a culture vulture, or a family looking for child-friendly activities, we cover what matters to you.
Local Businesses
We spotlight local businesses, artisans, and craftsmakers that define the town’s economic and cultural identity. Discover the places that locals cherish and the products they’re proud of.
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"An Ideal Place To Plant Your Roots"
Small Business Spotlight:
Joe's Candles
Meet Joe
Joe Thompson, a sprightly 58-year-old with a passion for artisan craftsmanship, runs Joe’s Candles right in the heart of Bend, Oregon. Having opened his shop 15 years ago after retiring early from a career in forestry, Joe found his calling in candle making. His cozy store on Bond Street is a beloved local fixture, famed for its array of hand-poured, soy-based candles. Each candle is a piece of art, infused with scents inspired by the natural splendor of the Pacific Northwest— from pine and cedar to wild blackberry and ocean mist. Joe’s motivation is simple yet profound: to bring a slice of Oregon’s restorative beauty into every home, fostering relaxation and a deep connection to nature.
Joe’s Candles isn’t just a store; it’s a reflection of Bend’s spirit of adventure and its deep-rooted connection to the natural world. Located just a stone’s throw from the lush, expansive Deschutes National Forest, Joe infuses the essence of the outdoors into each of his unique candle creations. Whether it’s the earthy scent of juniper and sage or the crisp aroma of mountain snow, each candle offers a piece of Bend’s picturesque environment to take home.
In a town celebrated for its commitment to the environment, Joe’s Candles mirrors this ethos by using locally sourced, eco-friendly materials. From the reusable glass containers to the biodegradable soy wax, Joe ensures that every candle is not only a gift to the senses but also kind to the planet. This practice of sustainability is a tribute to Bend’s culture, which promotes respect and care for its abundant natural resources.
Over the years, Joe’s Candles has become a beloved part of the Bend community. It’s a place where locals stop by not only to buy a candle but to chat with Joe about his latest hiking adventure or to get recommendations for the best trails. It’s also a hub for community events, often hosting candle-making workshops and participating in local markets.
For visitors, Joe’s Candles serves as a beacon of warmth and welcome, much like Bend itself. The shop is often a first stop for those who want to bring a tangible memory of their trip back home, making Joe’s scents a cherished keepsake of their travels.
