The OLCV Deschutes County Chapter’s Second Annual Summer BBQ fundraiser took Bend, Oregon by storm two weeks ago. August 22nd marked the culmination of more than a month’s worth of work done by the dedicated Deschutes County steering committee.
It began as a concept with legs: make the event environmentally responsible, emphasize the great work that local OLCV endorsed officials have accomplished on behalf of the environment, and show our community a great time….all on a shoestring.
Enter stage left, Paul Schmitz, owner of Boxcar Productions, a deep green building company. Paul volunteered to host our event at his Recycled Haus #2. His house was constructed of primarily reclaimed materials pulled from demolition work that his company completed. Paul was the perfect host; he gave a sustainability tour of his home and explained many of the green features that he incorporated into his design. The tour was one of many educational components to the evening.
State Representatives Judy Steigler and Brian Clem incorporated educational components into their speeches as they explained what it took to push through legislation to protect the Metolius River Basin and the Skyliner Forest from development. Both OLCV-endorsed legislators deserve a giant shoulder squeeze for taking such great care of our environment last legislative sessions!
Then came the strides taken to ensure that our community had a great time. Local singer/songwriter Joel Shupack graced us with his original sounds throughout the evening, from his outdoor stage of creeping thyme and flagstone, between presentations and during dinner.
Dinner was yet another example of the incredible generosity of our community. Local farms, restaurants and grocers pitched in to serve our guests environmentally responsible victuals that could not otherwise have been purchased on a shoestring. From free-range burgers, to organic salads, local desserts, and homemade side dishes, everything served came in the form of a contribution.
By nightfall, the 60+ guests in attendance were squinting as they said goodbyes in the dark. People left with full bellies, enlightened minds, and a great sense of community.
Thank you to everyone in attendance and another giant thank you to everyone who generously contributed to our fundraiser.
--Ben Gordon, OLCV Deschutes County Organizer
It's for the good of the community. Glad to know everyone helps each other.
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