Downtown Bend lit up with early-winter charm on December 5 as Cascade Hasson Sotheby’s International Realty opened the doors of our NW Wall Street office for First Friday Art Walk. The evening was hosted by seasoned real estate broker David Gilmore and brought to life by featured artist Shelli Walters and our wine partner, Lava Terrace Cellars.
Shelli’s mixed-media paintings and sculptural pieces filled the space with movement and emotion, each one echoing the layered stories of the Pacific Northwest. Guests gathered around her throughout the night as she shared what First Friday means to her. “I think First Friday increases the connection with the community,” she said. “It’s a great opportunity to get friends together and enjoy a night out on the town.”
This was her first time showing inside our downtown office, which made the moment even more meaningful. “I’ve been part of the Tumalo Art Company in the Old Mill for over 10 years,” she shared, “but opportunities like this around Bend feel special. I grew up here. I remember going out for First Fridays with friends. It’s always been a fun way to celebrate art.”
David felt the same sense of connection. “First Friday is a great opportunity to be out in the community,” he said. “Inviting people into the office to explore art and have great conversation, especially right before the holidays, feels incredibly rewarding.”
The wine tasting was hosted by Lava Terrace Cellars, Bend’s groundbreaking high-elevation vineyard. Owner Duane Barker reflected on the partnership in a way that perfectly captured the spirit of the evening:
“Our wines are born from this land made of lava rock, cold nights, and a whole lot of patience. Sharing them at First Friday feels like sharing a piece of Bend’s spirit. When people discover what’s possible here, they connect not just with the wine but with the story of this place.”
This season, that spirit of community extends even further. Both David and Cascade Hasson are proud supporters of KIDS Center, Central Oregon’s nationally accredited Children’s Advocacy Center. Throughout the holidays, our Bend offices are hosting Angel Tree programs, making it easy for anyone in the community to stop by, choose a tag, and purchase a Christmas gift for a child in need. It’s a simple act of kindness that makes a very real difference.
About KIDS Center
KIDS Center is Central Oregon’s nationally accredited Children’s Advocacy Center and has led the region’s response to child abuse for more than 30 years. They provide comprehensive evaluations, advocacy, and mental health services for children and families, all at no cost. KIDS Center also trains partners across six counties and offers free prevention programs that teach adults how to better protect children from abuse. Since opening, they’ve trained more than 15,000 adults and remain a vital safeguard for kids in our community.
As guests wandered, sipped, and connected, the night became a celebration of everything that makes Bend special: creativity, craftsmanship, and a community that shows up for one another.
Cascade Hasson Sotheby’s International Realty is proud to support the artists, makers, and visionaries who shape the Pacific Northwest. Nights like this remind us that when people gather around art, stories, and local wine, Bend shines a little brighter—and that by giving back to our community, we help ensure its creative spirit thrives for years to come.
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Contact
DAVID GILMORE, Broker
Cascade Hasson Sotheby’s International Realty
(619) 203-1749