Engage Deschutes launches monthly Politics Night to inspire locally focused community action
BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) -- Local small business owner John Heylin has announced the creation of a local Politics Night every fourth Thursday from 6-8 p.m. at Unofficial Logging Company in downtown Bend at 910 NW Harriman Street.
The event is free to attend, is open to every resident of Deschutes County and hopes to foster local action in the community, as well as establish deep social connections in Deschutes County at large, according to this week's announcement.
Fresh off his success in passing local Measure 9-173 to Expand the Deschutes County Commission, John created Engage Deschutes which aims to demystify local politics and encourage more participation from those who call Deschutes County home.
“I couldn’t have accomplished passing that measure without the support of my friends," he said. "I want to create that same feeling of support for anyone else in Deschutes County looking to improve their local community.”
Events will be free to attend and a great place to connect politically, as well as socially. Each month will have a different theme, such as “Talking to the Media” or “The State of Public Transit,” and suggested topics are welcome.
Attendees will take home optional “homework” after every event to help them become more active in their local community. Engage Deschutes will also hold events regularly in La Pine, Redmond, and Sisters.
Kicking off this month, Politics Night: Elections Edition will take place on February 27 at 6:00 PM at Unofficial Logging in downtown Bend. This event is a rare opportunity to engage in candid conversations with those who have run—or are currently running—for office. If you’ve ever wondered what it really takes to campaign, are considering volunteering, or even thinking about running yourself, this is your chance to get insider insights and inspiration.
There’s no need for formal presentations or pricey tickets—just good conversation, great company, and an open invitation to connect with people who are shaping our community. In a time when it’s easy to feel disconnected, Engage Deschutes is here to remind you that local change is not only possible, but within reach.
Join us, grab a beer, and discover how you can make a difference.
For more information, visit www.representdeschutes.com
About Engage Deschutes
Engage Deschutes is dedicated to empowering residents of Deschutes County by providing the knowledge, resources, and connections needed to get involved in local government. Through community-driven events like Local Politics Night, we aim to demystify the political process and inspire action that leads to real change.
